Parents expect wiggly teeth and the occasional visit from the Tooth Fairy. The unexpected discovery of two rows of teeth in 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.
FAQ About Permanent Teeth Growing Behind Baby Teeth
Why do adult teeth sometimes grow in before baby teeth fall out?
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.
Is it normal for permanent teeth to come in behind baby teeth?
Yes! If you notice a second row of teeth behind your child’s lower front teeth, you may be seeing what dentists often call “shark teeth.” Although it can look surprising, it is relatively common in children, especially around the time their lower front teeth begin coming in.
Will the baby tooth fall out on its own?
In many cases, yes. As the permanent tooth develops, the baby tooth’s root gradually dissolves, allowing it to loosen and fall out.
Should I pull a baby tooth out if a permanent tooth is growing in?
If your child has a permanent tooth growing behind a baby tooth, encourage gentle wiggling if the baby tooth is already loose. But avoid pulling it before it is ready. If the baby tooth remains firmly in place or the permanent tooth continues to emerge without the baby tooth loosening, an evaluation with your provider for pediatric dental care in Herndon, VA, can determine whether it needs help coming out.
When should a dentist evaluate a child’s double row of teeth?
A double row of teeth is not usually an emergency. But it is worth having your pediatric dentist evaluate your child’s smile. Schedule a visit if the baby tooth is not loosening, your child has discomfort, or the permanent tooth appears crowded or significantly out of position. Swelling, severe pain, or signs of infection also warrant prompt attention. Also, if the permanent tooth continues erupting at an unusual angle, you may want a professional evaluation to protect future alignment and oral health.
Your dentist can check how the teeth are developing and decide whether monitoring is enough or extraction is appropriate. Avoid trying to remove a stubborn baby tooth at home.
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.
