My Child's Adult Tooth Is Growing Behind Their Baby Tooth... Is That Normal?
2 min read Published 11 Jun 2026
By Dr Heam Asaad Ghazal, GDC Registered DentistMore Common Than You'd Think
Finding a second row of teeth appearing behind your child's baby teeth can be alarming, but it's actually one of the most common things dentists see in young children. It even has a nickname: "shark teeth", because of the double-row appearance. While it looks dramatic, it usually resolves itself without any intervention.
Why Does It Happen?
Normally, the roots of a baby tooth dissolve as the adult tooth pushes up beneath it, which causes the baby tooth to become wobbly and eventually fall out, making way for the adult tooth to take its place. When an adult tooth comes through behind rather than directly beneath, it usually means the baby tooth's roots haven't dissolved quickly enough. The adult tooth has simply found its own way through.
What Usually Happens Next
In most cases, as the adult tooth continues to develop and the child uses their teeth normally, the baby tooth will gradually loosen and fall out on its own. Once it does, the tongue naturally pushes the adult tooth forward into the correct position over time. No treatment is needed in the majority of cases.
When to See a Dentist
It's always worth mentioning it at your child's next dental check-up so your dentist can keep an eye on things. But there are a few situations where it's worth booking a specific appointment rather than waiting:
- The adult tooth has fully erupted but the baby tooth still hasn't fallen out after 2 to 3 months
- There's no sign of the baby tooth becoming wobbly at all
- Your child is experiencing pain or discomfort
In some cases, a simple extraction of the baby tooth may be recommended to allow the adult tooth to move into the right position. This is a very routine procedure and nothing to worry about.
This article is published by ParentBoost. It was written or reviewed for ParentBoost by the contributor below and edited by our team. It is general information for parents, not individual professional advice.
Dr Heam Asaad Ghazal
GDC Registered Dentist
Dr Heam Asaad Ghazal is a GDC-registered dentist with 12 years of clinical experience, working across both NHS and private dentistry. Heam works across three practices: mydentist Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth, 854 Dental Health in Moordown, and mydentist Tuckton. She knows first-hand how important those early dental habits are. As a mum to two boys aged 5 and 2, she is navigating the wobbly teeth, the toothpaste-swallowing and the pre-breakfast brushing battles right alongside you.
This article is general guidance for parents and carers, not medical, health, legal or other professional advice. Every child is different. If you're worried about your child's health or development, talk to your GP, health visitor or another suitable professional. In an emergency, call 999. For urgent advice, call NHS 111.
