Shark teeth is the nickname for what happens when a child's adult tooth comes through behind a baby tooth that has not yet fallen out, leaving two rows of teeth for a while. It looks alarming to parents, but it is common and usually harmless. It most often happens with the lower front teeth around age five to seven, and in the great majority of cases the baby tooth loosens and falls out on its own within a few weeks as the adult tooth keeps rising. A dentist only needs to step in when the baby tooth refuses to budge.
Key takeaways
- Shark teeth are adult teeth erupting behind baby teeth that have not fallen out yet.
- It is common, most often affecting the lower front teeth around age five to seven.
- In most cases the baby tooth falls out on its own within a few weeks.
- Encouraging gentle wobbling and normal chewing usually helps it along.
- See a dentist if the baby tooth stays firm, or the double row lasts more than a couple of months.
Why shark teeth happen
Normally, the adult tooth pushing up underneath dissolves the root of the baby tooth above it, so the baby tooth loosens and drops out just in time. Sometimes the adult tooth erupts slightly behind the baby tooth instead of directly under it, so it misses the root and the baby tooth stays put. The adult tooth then appears behind it, creating the double row. It is simply a matter of position and timing rather than a sign that anything has gone wrong. It tends to show up during the busy period of tooth change we describe in our guide to baby teeth eruption order.
Is it a problem?
Usually not. The adult tooth is often nudged into its proper place by the tongue and lips once the baby tooth is gone, so the alignment tends to correct itself. The main reasons to have it checked are if the baby tooth stays firmly in place, if the double row persists for more than a couple of months, or if your child has pain. Leaving a stubborn baby tooth too long can occasionally steer the adult tooth off course, which is the situation a dentist wants to avoid.
| Situation | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Baby tooth is wobbly | It is on its way out | Encourage gentle wiggling and crunchy foods |
| Baby tooth still firm after a few weeks | The root may not be dissolving | See a dentist for a check |
| Double row lasting over two months | Baby tooth may need help to come out | Dentist may remove the baby tooth |
| Pain or swelling | Possible other issue | Book a prompt appointment |
What you can do at home
Encourage your child to wobble the baby tooth gently with a clean finger or tongue, and offer crunchy foods like apple slices and carrot sticks, which naturally help loosen it. Keep up good brushing around the crowded area, since two rows of teeth are harder to clean and can trap food. There is no need to force the tooth or pull hard, and most families find it comes out in the bath or over a meal without drama. If weeks pass with no progress, a dentist can check whether a simple removal will let the adult tooth settle into place.
When to see a dentist
Book a visit if the baby tooth is still solid after three to four weeks, if the double row has lasted more than two months, or if there is pain, swelling or bleeding. A dentist will look at whether the baby tooth is holding the adult tooth out of position, and a quick, straightforward removal is sometimes all that is needed. Regular children's check-ups mean this kind of thing is usually spotted early anyway.
Frequently asked questions
Are shark teeth an emergency?
No. They are common and usually resolve on their own. It only needs attention if the baby tooth will not come out or there is pain.
Should I pull the baby tooth out?
Do not force it. Gentle natural wobbling is fine, but if the tooth is firm, let a dentist decide whether it needs removing.
Will the adult tooth stay crooked?
Often it drifts into place once the baby tooth is gone, helped by the tongue and lips. If it does not, a dentist can advise whether anything is needed later.
How long should I wait before seeing a dentist?
If the baby tooth has not loosened within three to four weeks, or the double row lasts beyond two months, book a check.
Does it hurt my child?
Usually not. The eruption is generally painless. If your child has real pain, it is worth having it looked at.
If your child has a stubborn baby tooth sitting in front of a new adult tooth, a quick check can set your mind at ease. Book a visit and see current family options on our offers page, or read our guide to when baby teeth fall out.
