As a parent, you're always concerned about your child's health and development, and their dental health is no exception. If you've noticed your child's permanent teeth coming in behind their baby teeth, you might be feeling a little alarmed. But don't worry, we're here to explain why this happens and what you can do about it.
When a child's permanent teeth begin to emerge, they usually push the baby teeth out of the way. This process, known as eruption, can sometimes lead to a situation where the permanent teeth come in behind the baby teeth. This is commonly referred to as "shark teeth." It's a relatively common occurrence, particularly with the lower front teeth and the upper back molars, and typically happens between the ages of six and seven.
The phenomenon of permanent teeth coming in behind baby teeth usually occurs when the roots of the baby teeth don't dissolve as they should, preventing the baby teeth from loosening and falling out. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including the angle at which the permanent teeth are growing in, or simply because the child's mouth is too small to accommodate all the teeth.
If you notice that your child's permanent teeth are coming in behind their baby teeth, the first step is not to panic. In many cases, the baby teeth will eventually fall out on their own, making room for the permanent teeth to move into their correct positions. However, if the baby tooth doesn't loosen within a couple of weeks, it's a good idea to schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist, like Dr. Matthew Gustafsson at Truckee Pediatric Dentistry, to evaluate the situation and determine if any intervention is necessary.
While you can't prevent the occurrence of shark teeth, maintaining regular dental check-ups can help identify the issue early on. If intervention is necessary, a simple extraction of the baby tooth can be performed to make room for the permanent tooth. This procedure is quick, safe, and typically causes little discomfort for the child.
At Truckee Pediatric Dentistry, we're committed to providing quality dental care for your children in a comfortable and friendly environment. If you're concerned about your child's permanent teeth coming in behind their baby teeth, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Dr. Matthew Gustafsson is highly experienced in managing these types of dental issues and will ensure your child's dental health is in the best hands. Call us today at (530) 550-9311 to schedule an appointment. Your child's smile is our top priority!
