Seeing a second row of teeth appear in your child’s mouth can be surprising—especially if those teeth seem to be growing behind the baby teeth. Before you panic, take a breath. This phenomenon is commonly known as “shark teeth,” and it’s often a normal part of childhood dental development.
While it can look unusual, a second row of teeth doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Here’s what parents should know and when it’s a good idea to contact a dentist.
What Are “Shark Teeth”?
“Shark teeth” is a nickname for a situation in which a child’s permanent tooth begins to grow in before the corresponding baby tooth has fallen out. Instead of replacing the baby tooth in the same spot, the permanent tooth may appear behind or, less commonly, in front of it.
The nickname comes from the resemblance to sharks, which can have multiple rows of teeth.
This situation most commonly occurs with the lower front teeth, but it can happen elsewhere in the mouth as well.
Why Does This Happen?
As permanent teeth develop, they gradually move into position to replace baby teeth. Normally, the developing permanent tooth helps dissolve the root of the baby tooth. As the root disappears, the baby tooth becomes loose and eventually falls out.
Sometimes, the permanent tooth doesn’t line up directly beneath the baby tooth. It may begin emerging behind it instead. If the baby tooth remains in place, the permanent tooth can temporarily create the appearance of a second row.
In many cases, the baby tooth eventually becomes loose and falls out on its own.
Should You Be Worried?
Usually, shark teeth are not an emergency. If your child has a permanent tooth growing behind a baby tooth, the first step is to monitor the situation.
Encourage your child to gently wiggle the loose baby tooth if appropriate. As the baby tooth falls out, the permanent tooth may gradually move toward its proper position.
However, every child is different. If the baby tooth is not becoming loose, the permanent tooth is fully erupted, or you’re concerned about the position of the teeth, schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist.
When Should You Call the Dentist?
A dental evaluation may be recommended if:
- The baby tooth remains firmly in place while the permanent tooth continues to erupt
- Your child experiences pain or significant discomfort
- The permanent tooth appears severely misaligned
- The area is swollen, red, or shows signs of infection
- You are simply unsure whether the tooth development is normal
Your dentist can evaluate your child’s teeth and determine whether observation is appropriate or if the baby tooth should be removed.
What Happens After the Baby Tooth Falls Out?
Once the baby tooth is gone, the permanent tooth may gradually move into a more natural position. Children’s jaws are still growing, and their teeth can shift as development continues.
In some cases, however, the permanent tooth may need additional guidance. Your child’s dentist can monitor the area during routine visits and determine whether further treatment is necessary.
Keep Calm and Keep Watching
A second row of teeth can look alarming, but shark teeth are a relatively common part of childhood dental development. In many cases, the situation resolves naturally as the baby tooth loosens and falls out.
If you have questions about your child’s developing smile, a dental professional can provide reassurance and guidance. Regular dental visits are also an important way to monitor changes as your child’s permanent teeth come in.
When in doubt, don’t panic—just ask your child’s dentist.
About the Practice
Dr. Maggie Davis & Associates provides compassionate dental care for patients of all ages, including children. Her practice focuses on creating positive dental experiences while supporting healthy oral development and helping families understand their children’s changing smiles.
Call us at (727) 786-7551 or schedule your appointment online.