The emergence of a new tooth behind an existing one is a common dental occurrence, particularly in children. This phenomenon is a normal part of dental development as children transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth.
Understanding “Shark Teeth”
This dental phenomenon is commonly referred to as “shark teeth” because the appearance of two rows of teeth resembles the dentition of a shark. It occurs when a permanent tooth begins to erupt behind a primary (baby) tooth that has not yet fallen out. This situation is also known by the more technical term “lingually erupted lower incisors.” This condition appears around ages 5 to 7, when children begin to lose their lower front teeth. It can also happen with upper front teeth or molars.
Why Teeth Grow Behind Others
The primary reason for a tooth growing behind another is that the baby tooth’s root does not dissolve or “resorb” as quickly as it should. Normally, as a permanent tooth grows, it pushes against the root of the baby tooth, causing the root to break down and the baby tooth to loosen and fall out. However, if the permanent tooth does not align directly beneath the baby tooth, or if the baby tooth’s root is stubborn, the permanent tooth may erupt behind it. A lack of sufficient jaw space can also lead to the permanent tooth emerging in an unexpected position. Genetic factors may also play a role in the timing and positioning of erupting teeth.
Managing Overlapping Teeth
“Shark teeth” is a temporary situation that often resolves on its own. If the baby tooth is loose, encouraging the child to gently wiggle it can help speed up the process of it falling out. Once the baby tooth is removed, the child’s tongue naturally pushes the permanent tooth forward into its correct position.
However, if the baby tooth remains firm and shows no signs of loosening after a few weeks, or if the permanent tooth has fully erupted behind it, a dental professional should be consulted. The dentist may recommend extracting the baby tooth to prevent issues such as crowding, alignment problems, or discomfort. An X-ray might be used to assess the situation and determine if extraction is necessary. If left unaddressed, persistent overlapping teeth could lead to long-term alignment issues, potentially requiring orthodontic intervention.