Permanent Teeth Erupting Behind Primary Teeth
Eruption of Permanent Teeth Behind Primary Teeth
Parents may notice a “double row of teeth” when their child’s permanent teeth start emerging behind baby teeth, most commonly in the lower front teeth (mandibular incisors). Permanent teeth erupting behind primary teeth occurs because the permanent tooth buds develop behind the baby teeth (lingually), and sometimes, the baby teeth’s roots don’t dissolve quickly enough, preventing them from falling out on time.
In most cases, this resolves naturally as the tongue and jaw growth help shift the permanent teeth into place once the baby teeth fall out. If the baby tooth is loose, gentle wiggling can encourage it to fall out. However, if it remains firmly in place after a few months or the adult teeth appear misaligned, a dental check-up with your Brisbane dentist is recommended. In some cases, a dentist may need to remove the baby tooth to ensure proper alignment of the adult tooth. While this may look unusual, it is a common and temporary stage in dental development.
What Are Shark Teeth?
Shark teeth is a term used when a child’s permanent teeth erupt behind their baby teeth, creating a double row of teeth. This happens most often in the lower front teeth (mandibular incisors) because the permanent tooth buds develop on the lingual (inner) side of the baby teeth. Normally, the permanent teeth push against the roots of baby teeth, causing them to dissolve and allowing the baby teeth to fall out.
However, if this process is delayed, the permanent teeth may erupt in the wrong position behind the baby teeth instead. While this is most common in the lower front teeth, it can also occur in the upper teeth, though it happens less frequently. In many cases, the tongue and natural jaw growth help guide these teeth into place once the baby teeth fall out, but if they remain in place for too long, visit our Brisbane paediatric dentist to see if they need to intervene.
Why Do Permanent Teeth Grow Behind Baby Teeth?
It’s completely normal for some children to have permanent teeth erupt behind their baby teeth, creating a double row of teeth. This usually happens because:
Delayed Exfoliation of Primary Teeth
If a baby tooth remains in place longer than expected, it can block the path of the permanent tooth, causing it to erupt behind the primary tooth instead of pushing it out naturally.
The Roots of Baby Teeth May Not Dissolve Properly
Typically, when adult teeth start to emerge, they push on the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to dissolve and fall out. However, in some cases, the roots do not dissolve as expected, making it difficult for the baby teeth to fall out on time. As a result, the permanent teeth erupt behind them, creating a double row of teeth. This is fairly common and often resolves naturally.
Crowding or Lack of Space in the Jaw
If a child’s jaw is too small or the baby teeth are closely packed, there may not be enough space for the permanent teeth to grow in their correct positions. This forces the permanent teeth to take an alternative eruption path behind the primary teeth.
Ectopic Eruption
This occurs when a tooth erupts in an abnormal position, usually due to misalignment of the tooth bud during development. This can cause permanent teeth to grow behind the primary teeth rather than in their normal positions.
Genetic Factors
Inherited traits can influence tooth eruption patterns, potentially leading to permanent teeth erupting behind primary ones. If parents experienced similar issues, their children may have an increased likelihood of developing “shark teeth.”
Trauma to Primary Teeth
If a primary tooth is injured or knocked out prematurely, it can interfere with the normal eruption pattern of the permanent tooth. In some cases, the permanent tooth may erupt behind where the baby tooth was supposed to be.
Supernumerary (Extra) Teeth
Sometimes, extra teeth (supernumerary teeth) develop in the mouth. These additional teeth can take up space and block the normal path of permanent teeth, causing them to erupt behind the baby teeth.
Delayed Resorption of Primary Tooth Roots
Normally, the roots of primary teeth gradually dissolve as permanent teeth push through. If this process is delayed, the baby tooth remains in place while the permanent tooth finds another path—often behind it.
Ankylosis of Primary Teeth
In rare cases, a primary tooth fuses to the jawbone, preventing it from falling out naturally. When this happens, the permanent tooth has to find another way to emerge, often leading to an eruption behind the primary tooth.
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Role of the Tongue
The tongue plays an important role in moving your child’s permanent teeth into place. When speaking, eating, and swallowing, the tongue naturally applies pressure to the lower front teeth, which helps push them forward into their proper position. In most cases, even if permanent teeth initially come in behind baby teeth, the tongue’s pressure and natural jaw development can help correct their alignment over time.
Is It Normal? Should I Be Worried?
In most cases, permanent teeth erupting behind baby teeth is completely normal and corrects itself naturally. As the baby tooth loosens and falls out, the adult tooth usually moves into the right position over time. However, if this happens in older children (around 7.5 years or older) or if the baby tooth isn’t loosening at all, it might need a little help from a kids dentist. Keeping an eye on it is important—if a permanent tooth has come through but its counterpart on the other side hasn’t erupted within six months, it’s a good idea to book a dental check-up to make sure everything is on track.
What Should Parents Do If They Notice This?
If you see a double row of teeth in your child’s mouth, don’t panic—it’s common and often resolves on its own. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay calm – This is a normal part of dental development for many children.
- Know the normal tooth eruption timeline – If one adult tooth has come through but its counterpart on the other side hasn’t erupted within six months, a dental check-up is recommended.
- Observe first – In most cases, the baby tooth will fall out naturally as the adult tooth moves into place.
- Encourage gentle wiggling – If the baby tooth is already loose, have your child gently wiggle it with their tongue or fingers to help speed up the process.
- Monitor for changes – Keep an eye on the situation. If the baby tooth isn’t loosening after a few months or if the adult tooth seems misaligned, it’s time to see a dentist.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups – Routine visits help monitor tooth eruption and alignment to ensure everything is developing properly.
When Does a Dentist Need to Step In?
When Primary Teeth Are Not Loose
If the baby tooth isn’t getting wobbly on its own and the adult tooth keeps coming in further, the baby tooth may need a little help to come out. A dentist will check if it’s best to wait a little longer or if it should be removed to give the adult tooth space to move into the right position.
Crowding Concerns
If the baby teeth were already close together with no spaces between them, there’s a higher chance that the adult teeth won’t have enough room to come in straight. This can lead to overlapping or misalignment, which might need orthodontic treatment later on. A dentist can assess whether early action is needed to prevent crowding from becoming a bigger problem.
If the Permanent Tooth Is Erupting in a Very Incorrect Position
Sometimes, an adult tooth comes in at an unusual angle or far behind the baby tooth. If it looks like it’s growing in the wrong direction or pushing on other teeth, early intervention may help avoid orthodontic issues later on. The sooner a dentist checks it, the better the chances of guiding the tooth into place naturally.
When a Primary Tooth Isn’t Resorbing Normally
The roots of baby teeth are supposed to dissolve as the permanent teeth push through. If this isn’t happening properly, the baby tooth can block the adult tooth from coming in correctly. This can cause the permanent tooth to grow at an awkward angle or get stuck. A dentist can determine whether the baby tooth needs to be removed to prevent long-term alignment problems.
Could This Lead to Future Problems?
In most cases, permanent teeth erupting behind baby teeth don’t cause major issues, but sometimes they can lead to crowding, misalignment, or delays in the normal eruption process.
Potential Crowding Issues
When a permanent tooth emerges behind a baby tooth, it may create space problems in the mouth. The presence of both teeth in the same area may push surrounding teeth out of alignment, leading to crowding. Crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, increasing the risk of plaque build-up and cavities. In some cases, early removal of the baby tooth may be recommended to allow the permanent tooth to shift into its proper position.
Misalignment
If the baby tooth doesn’t fall out quickly, the permanent tooth may continue to grow in an incorrect position. This can result in an uneven bite or crooked teeth, which may require orthodontic treatment later on. Misaligned teeth can also cause excessive wear on certain teeth, leading to long-term dental problems. Early intervention by a dentist can help prevent these issues and guide the permanent tooth into its correct position.
Gum Irritation or Infections
A baby tooth that remains in place too long can trap food and bacteria around the gumline, leading to irritation or infection. Swelling, redness, or discomfort in the affected area may indicate gum inflammation. If left untreated, this could result in an infection that affects the developing permanent tooth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups help minimise these risks and keep the gums healthy.
Delayed Loss of Baby Teeth
In some cases, the baby tooth does not loosen or fall out as expected, causing a delay in the normal shedding process. This can prevent the permanent tooth from moving into its correct position, affecting overall tooth alignment. If the baby tooth remains for too long, a dentist may recommend extraction to avoid complications. Addressing the issue early helps ensure the natural eruption sequence continues without unnecessary delays.
Lingual Arch Considerations
A lingual arch is a dental appliance used to maintain space in the lower jaw, typically by preventing the molars from moving forward. However, placing it too early—before the lower permanent incisors have erupted—can lead to unintended consequences.
Why Timing Matters
- Eruption Pathway: If a lingual arch is placed before the lower front permanent teeth (incisors) have come in, it can obstruct their natural eruption path. This obstruction may cause these teeth to emerge further back (lingually) than intended, leading to misalignment.
- Natural Alignment: Allowing the lower incisors to erupt without interference provides them the opportunity to align more naturally within the dental arch.
Recommended Approach
Dental professionals typically advise waiting until the lower permanent incisors have fully erupted before considering the placement of a lingual arch. This strategy helps ensure that the appliance supports proper dental development without hindering the natural eruption process.
How to Prevent Dental Issues in Kids?
Here’s what you can do to help prevent issues before they become bigger problems:
Regular Check-Ups Help Dentists Track Tooth Development
Seeing a dentist every six months allows them to monitor your child’s teeth, spot any early signs of misalignment or crowding, and take action if needed. Early detection can reduce the need for more complex treatments later on.
Encourage Healthy Oral Habits to Support Natural Tooth Movement
Brushing twice a day, flossing, and maintaining a balanced diet help keep gums and teeth strong. Healthy gums provide better support for permanent teeth, and good habits reduce the risk of decay, which can affect how teeth come in.
Monitoring Eruption Sequence Can Prevent Complications Early On
If a permanent tooth doesn’t come in within six months of its counterpart on the other side or if a baby tooth isn’t loosening as expected, a dentist can check if intervention is needed. Catching these issues early can help prevent crowding, misalignment, or delays in eruption.
Conclusion
Permanent teeth erupting behind baby teeth typically fix themselves over time, but it’s important to keep an eye on how things progress. Parents should watch for signs of crowding or misalignment and seek dental advice if the baby tooth isn’t loosening or if the adult tooth seems out of place. In some cases, removing the baby tooth may be necessary to prevent long-term issues. If you’re ever unsure, a quick visit to the dentist can provide reassurance and prevent bigger problems down the track. Early intervention can make a big difference in keeping your child’s teeth healthy and well-aligned.
Frequently Asked Question
At what age do permanent teeth typically start to erupt?
Permanent teeth usually start erupting around the age of 6 years, beginning with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues in stages, with most children having a full set of adult teeth (except wisdom teeth) by age 12–13. The wisdom teeth (third molars) may erupt later, typically between 17 and 25 years, or they may not erupt at all. The timing can vary slightly between children, with girls often experiencing earlier eruption than boys.
Can "shark teeth" occur in both the upper and lower jaws?
“Shark teeth” (when permanent teeth erupt behind baby teeth) can occur in both the upper and lower jaws. However, it is most common in the lower front teeth (lower central incisors), typically around age 6. The upper front teeth (upper central incisors) and molars can also be affected, though less frequently.
Are there any genetic factors that influence this condition?
Genetics may play a role in whether a child experiences “shark teeth”. If a parent had a similar issue as a child, their child may also have a higher chance of developing it. Genetic factors influencing tooth eruption, jaw size, and crowding can all contribute to this condition.
How long should I wait before consulting a dentist if I notice a double row of teeth?
You should monitor the situation for about two weeks. If the baby tooth does not become loose or start to fall out naturally, or if the permanent tooth continues to move further forward, it’s best to see a dentist promptly. Early intervention can help prevent crowding and alignment issues.
Is orthodontic treatment always required if this happens?
Orthodontic treatment is not always needed. If the baby tooth falls out naturally or is removed early, the permanent tooth often shifts into the correct position on its own. However, in cases of severe crowding or misalignment, orthodontic intervention may be required.
How can I encourage my child to loosen their baby teeth safely?
Encourage them to gently wiggle the loose tooth with their tongue or clean fingers. Eating crunchy foods like apples and carrots can also help. Avoid forcefully pulling the tooth, as this can cause pain and unnecessary bleeding.
Are there any complications if this condition is left untreated?
If the baby tooth remains in place for too long, it can cause crowding, misalignment, or an abnormal bite. This may require orthodontic correction later. Delayed treatment can also increase the risk of food trapping and decay in the affected area.
Can this condition affect the eruption of other permanent teeth?
If one permanent tooth is misaligned due to retained baby teeth, it may affect the eruption path of adjacent teeth, leading to crooked teeth or spacing issues.
Is it common for multiple teeth to exhibit this eruption pattern simultaneously?
It is possible but less common. Most children experience “shark teeth” in one or two teeth at a time, usually the lower front incisors. However, in some cases, multiple teeth can be affected, particularly if eruption patterns are delayed.
Ensure Your Child’s Smile Grows the Right Way
Timely dental care can make all the difference in guiding your child’s teeth into proper alignment. If you’ve noticed a double row of teeth or have concerns about their dental development, expert advice is just a call away. Our experienced team is here to assess, reassure, and provide the best solutions for a healthy, confident smile.
If your little one feels nervous about the dentist, has special needs, or struggles with dental visits, we offer sleep dentistry and laughing gas to ensure a calm and comfortable experience. Brisbane Dental Sleep Clinic points out that Sleep Dentistry Brisbane is committed to ensuring relaxed and stress-free dental visits.
We offer flexible payment options, including Humm and SuperCare, to make dental care accessible. Book an appointment today at 07 3343 4869.
