Parents expect wiggly teeth and the occasional visit from the Tooth Fairy. The unexpected discovery of two rows of teethin their child’s mouth is not as exciting. Seeing adult teeth growing behind baby teeth can feel alarming. Does it indicate that something is wrong with their child’s dental development? Fortunately, this situation, sometimes nicknamed “shark teeth”, is more common than many realize. In many cases, it is simply a normal stage of dental development. Hero Pediatric Dentistry is happy to help parents and little heroes love their smiles with dental care in Herndon, VA.
Why Adult Teeth Sometimes Grow Behind Baby Teeth
Permanent teeth begin forming long before children lose their baby teeth. As adult teeth erupt, they normally push against the roots of baby teeth, causing them to loosen and fall out. However, sometimes the permanent tooth erupts before the baby tooth has fully loosened. When this happens, the adult tooth may emerge slightly behind the baby tooth instead of directly underneath it. Sometimes the baby tooth roots do no dissolve quickly enough or there is limited space for the permanent teeth that cause adult teeth growing behind baby teeth. In many cases, once the baby tooth finally falls out, the permanent tooth naturally shifts forward into its correct position.
When Parents Should Schedule a Dental Visit
While “shark teeth” are often harmless, it is still helpful to schedule an appointment you’re your pediatric provider for dental care in Herndon, VA, to evaluate your child’s smile. If the child feels any discomfort or the baby tooth does not loosen within several weeks, a pediatric dentist can provide guidance. Also, if the permanent tooth continues erupting at an unusual angle, you may want a professional evaluation to protect future alignment and oral health. A pediatric dentist may recommend gentle monitoring or a simple baby tooth extraction if necessary.
Compassionate Dental Care Herndon VA for Growing Smiles
Dental development includes many surprising stages, and parents should never feel uncertain about what is normal. At Hero Pediatric Dentistry, our team regularly helps families understand changes like adult teeth growing behind baby teeth. We believe every child deserves dental care in Herndon, VA, built on trust, encouragement, and expertise. With locations serving Northern Virginia, including Herndon and Gainesville, our team specializes in pediatric care designed to help children feel safe, understood, and confident at every stage of development. If you are searching for a pediatric dentist in Virginia who treats your child like the hero of their own story, we are here to guide you. Call 571-685-8047 or request an appointment online and experience compassionate, expert care designed just for growing smiles.
