Two Rows Tooth Eruption in Kids: Should Parents Be Worried?
It can be surprising to look inside your child’s mouth and notice what looks like two rows tooth eruption in kids. Many parents describe this as “shark teeth” because the new adult tooth appears behind the baby tooth, creating a double row of teeth.
The good news is that in many cases, this is common and not an emergency. Still, it is worth understanding why it happens, what to watch for, and when your child may need to see a dentist.
What Are Shark Teeth?
“Shark teeth” is the common name for when an adult tooth starts coming through before the baby tooth has fallen out. This can create visible rows of teeth, often in the lower front area.
Normally, when permanent teeth are ready to come through, the baby tooth root begins to dissolve. This allows the baby tooth to become loose and eventually fall out. Sometimes, however, the root of the baby tooth does not dissolve quickly enough. As a result, the adult teeth erupt behind the child’s baby teeth instead of directly underneath them.
This can make it look like your child has two rows of teeth.
Why Does This Happen?
There are a few common reasons this may happen. The adult tooth may not be pushing directly under the baby tooth root. The baby tooth may be slow to loosen. In some cases, there may not be enough space in the child’s mouth for the permanent tooth to come through in the ideal position.
This is sometimes related to ectopic eruption, where a permanent tooth erupts in an unusual direction or position. Lovely little dental drama, because apparently growing teeth needed plot twists.
Is It Common?
Yes. A double row of teeth is fairly common in children, especially around the age when the lower front adult teeth erupt. It can also happen with other permanent teeth.
In many cases, once the baby tooth becomes loose and falls out, the tongue naturally helps guide the adult tooth forward into a better position. Children’s mouths are surprisingly good at sorting things out, despite the chaos they create with snacks, toys, and toothpaste everywhere.
What Should Parents Do?
If the baby tooth is already loose, you can usually monitor it for a short time. You may gently encourage your child to wiggle the tooth with clean fingers or their tongue. Eating firmer healthy foods, such as apple slices or carrot sticks, may also help encourage the tooth to fall naturally.
However, do not force the tooth out. Pulling too hard can cause pain, bleeding, or make your child anxious about dental care.
Good oral health is also important during this time. Help your child brush carefully around both the baby tooth and adult tooth, as food and plaque can get trapped between the rows of teeth.
When Should You See a Dentist?
You should book a dental check-up if:
- The baby tooth is not loose at all
- The adult tooth has been visible for several weeks
- Your child has pain, swelling, or bleeding
- The teeth don’t seem to be moving into a better position
- There is crowding or not enough space
- You are worried about your child’s bite or tooth alignment
- You notice this condition in the top jaw, especially if the adult tooth is coming through behind the baby tooth or in an unusual position
Shark teeth are more commonly noticed in the lower front teeth. However, if you see a double row of teeth in the upper jaw, it is best to book a dental assessment. Upper front teeth can sometimes affect the bite, smile development, and the position of other permanent teeth, so early review is important.
A dentist can check your child’s mouth, assess whether the primary teeth are ready to fall out naturally, and decide whether monitoring, space assessment, X-rays, or tooth extraction may be needed.
Will My Child Need Tooth Extraction?
Not always. Many cases simply need monitoring. But if the baby tooth is firm and blocking the adult tooth, a simple tooth extraction may be recommended. This allows the permanent tooth to move into a better position and helps reduce the risk of crowding or long-term alignment issues.
Our experienced family dentist can explain the best option based on your child’s age, dental development, and X-rays if needed.
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Book a Check-Up for Your Child
If your child has two rows of teeth or you are unsure whether their adult teeth erupt normally, it is best to have a gentle dental assessment.
At H&S Modern Dentistry in Blackburn, we provide caring dental care for children and families. We can check your child’s baby teeth, permanent teeth, bite, and oral health, and guide you on whether treatment is needed or whether it is safe to simply monitor the tooth.
Book your child’s dental visit today and let us help keep their smile healthy as they grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if my child has two rows of teeth?
Are shark teeth in kids an emergency?
Will the adult tooth move forward by itself?
When is tooth extraction needed?
Should I pull my child’s baby tooth at home?
Disclaimer:
This guide provides general information and does not replace professional dental diagnosis. Always consult your dentist for personalised advice tailored to your specific condition.
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