Is one of your child’s adult teeth popping up behind their baby one? If you’re reading this article, then the answer is likely “yes.” This phenomenon, known as “shark teeth,” can make you wonder if there is any cause for concern. That’s why we are sharing if you should be worried, when you should call their pediatric dentist, and how to make losing teeth less scary for your little one!
So, Are Shark Teeth a Concern?
Shark teeth are common among children, especially since some baby teeth need a little extra time to fall out. When determining if you should be worried, it’s important to ask yourself three important questions:
- Is your child in the typical tooth loss timeframe (5-7 years of age)?
- Is their baby tooth starting to wiggle?
- Are they experiencing any discomfort?
When You Should Talk to Your Child’s Dentist About Shark Teeth
Answering the above questions will help you determine the proper urgency to take regarding your child’s shark teeth. For example, if they are six and their baby tooth is beginning to loosen, then you likely have nothing to worry about. On the other hand, if they are over seven and their primary tooth is extremely stubborn, then you should probably get in touch with your dentist. From there, they can determine if intervening with a tooth extraction is necessary.
How to Make Losing Teeth Less Scary
In most cases, the best way to remedy shark teeth is to encourage your little one to consistently wiggle their tooth. However, they may feel a little hesitant to do so if the idea of losing their tooth scares them. If this is the case for your little one, do your best to normalize the process through educational videos and informative books. Encourage them to bring to you any questions they have and do your best to be patient. Remember, forcing them into it ultimately won’t do you (or them!) much good. Of course, if you need any additional tips, don’t hesitate to talk to a trusted pediatric dentist.
Although shark teeth can be jarring at first, it’s important to remember that it’s common in children’s dentistry. If you’re worried about your child’s oral health, schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Sam Alkhoury’s education, training, and skill are unmatched. In addition to being a recipient of an orthodontic award from the American Academy of Orthodontists, he is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Association, and the American Academy of Orthodontists! He loves helping kids of all ages get the top-tier service and beautiful smiles they deserve. If your little one has shark teeth or you’re simply interested in scheduling an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call 603-880-5002.