Shark Teeth In Kids: A Guide for Parents

While your little one might be too scared to watch the movie ‘Jaws,’ they don’t have to be frightened of shark teeth when they look in the mirror. 

Shark teeth in kids are not uncommon and can be a normal part of dental development.

This blog will discuss shark teeth in kids. We will cover why it happens and treatment options offered at Youth Dental. Let’s dive in! 

Understanding Shark Teeth in Kids

As children grow, they enter an exciting phase of development. This involves losing baby teeth, primary or deciduous teeth, and growing permanent teeth. This process usually starts around age 6 and continues until around 12 or 13 years old. However, every child is unique, so timing may vary. 

Sometimes, permanent teeth may emerge before baby teeth naturally fall out, creating “shark teeth.” Fortunately, this is usually temporary and nothing to be overly concerned about. It’s a natural part of transitioning from primary to permanent teeth. 

In most cases, the baby tooth will eventually fall out on its own, allowing the permanent tooth to take its place. Parents can ensure proper dental care by understanding and embracing this phase.

Causes of Shark Teeth in Kids

Here are the five most common causes of shark teeth in kids:

1. Genetics: Family history can play a significant role in the occurrence of shark teeth, as genetics can influence tooth development and alignment.
2. Delayed primary tooth loss: When a primary tooth doesn’t fall out on its schedule, it can impede the permanent tooth’s eruption.
3. Crowded dental arch: Limited space in the mouth is a common reason for shark teeth, as it can prevent the new tooth from emerging in the correct position.
4. Small jaw size: Some children have smaller jaws that may struggle to accommodate all their permanent teeth, leading to alignment issues.
5. Premature loss of baby teeth: If primary teeth are lost too early due to accidents or dental disease, it can disrupt the natural sequence of permanent tooth eruption.

Signs and Symptoms of Shark Teeth in Kids

Parents should look out for the following signs and symptoms that could indicate the presence of shark teeth:

• Double row of teeth: The most obvious sign is the appearance of two rows of teeth, with the permanent teeth visibly growing behind the baby teeth.
• Pain or discomfort: The child might experience pain or sensitivity in the area where the permanent teeth emerge.
• Swelling or redness: As with any teething process, the gums might appear swollen or red around the site where the permanent tooth grows.
• Difficulty in chewing: Children with shark teeth may experience discomfort or difficulty chewing or biting due to the misalignment of the teeth.
• Tongue irritation: An extra tooth can cause irritation or discomfort to the child’s tongue, especially if the new tooth is sharp or positioned abnormally.
• Speech difficulties: In some cases, shark teeth can affect speech development, particularly if the misaligned teeth interfere with proper tongue and lip movements during speech.

Again, if you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your child, seek professional dental guidance to address the issue appropriately.

Treatment and Prevention of Shark Teeth

Although shark teeth are a natural phenomenon, taking appropriate steps to ensure proper dental hygiene and avoid complications is important. 

Here are some ways to handle shark teeth and prevent dental issues:

1. Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly to monitor your child’s dental development and address any concerns related to shark teeth.
2. Maintain oral hygiene: Kids should brush their teeth at least twice a day and start flossing once their teeth begin to touch each other. This promotes good oral health and assists in identifying any potential problems.
3. Consult your dentist : If a baby tooth is still in place after the permanent tooth has entirely emerged, consult your dentist to discuss possible interventions, such as extraction, to ensure proper dental development.

Your Kids Dentist in Denver

Family dentists specialize in treating children and have extensive knowledge and experience handling shark teeth. They will provide guidance on how to manage the situation correctly, from diagnosis to treatment options. 

Youth Dental provides quality dental care for children from infancy through age 21, creating a safe and comfortable office environment with fun, age-appropriate toys and games to ensure a relaxed and stress-free experience.  

If you are searching for ‘the best family dentist near me‘, contact Youth Dental. With locations in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden, we are dedicated to providing exceptional and accessible dental care to safeguard your child’s oral health. To book an appointment at one of our locations, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online booking form.

Let’s work together to keep our little ones’ smiles healthy and happy!   

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