Seeing a new tooth appear right behind a baby tooth that is still firm worries many parents. It is quite common, and in many cases it only needs to be watched.
- A permanent tooth growing in right behind a baby tooth that has not fallen out is common, especially with the lower front teeth.
- If the baby tooth is already wobbly, you usually wait a few weeks for it to fall out and for the new tooth to move into place.
- A baby tooth that is still firm two to three months after the new tooth appears should be checked by a dentist.
- Do not pull a firm baby tooth at home, and remind your child to brush well around the erupting tooth.
Many parents are alarmed to see a permanent tooth poking up just behind or in front of a baby tooth that has not fallen out, so that it looks as if the child has two rows of teeth. This is quite common, especially with the lower front teeth during the changeover period.
Why do teeth grow in a double row?
A permanent tooth grows beneath the root of the baby tooth and pushes the baby tooth up so it falls out. Sometimes the root of the baby tooth has not been fully absorbed, so the new tooth takes another path and emerges right beside it. A small jaw with little room can also make the new tooth erupt out of line, in front or behind.
Does the baby tooth need to be removed?
- If the baby tooth is already wobbly, you usually just wait a few weeks, and it will fall out on its own and the new tooth tends to move into place.
- If the baby tooth is still firm two to three months after the new tooth appears, the child should be checked by a dentist.
- If the new tooth is very crooked or painful, the dentist may consider removing the baby tooth to give the new one space.
See also whether removing a baby tooth hurts and when it is really needed.
What can parents do?
- Do not pull a baby tooth yourself at home if it is still firm.
- Encourage the child to chew moderately firm foods such as vegetables so the baby tooth loosens naturally.
- Remind your child to brush well, especially around the erupting tooth, where plaque collects easily.
- Follow the changeover schedule and bring your child for regular check ups, see the baby tooth changeover schedule.
When should you bring your child early?
Bring your child in if the baby tooth does not fall out after a few months, the new tooth is very crooked, the gum is swollen and sore or your child finds eating difficult. For children who are slow to change teeth, see what to do if a child is slow to lose baby teeth.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Parents can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first. The dentist will examine your child and advise how to monitor, depending on the child.
Frequently asked questions
Will a double row of teeth in a child fix itself?
In many cases the baby tooth falls out within weeks to months and the new tooth moves into place. If the baby tooth is still firm after two to three months, have your child checked.
Should I pull the baby tooth at home?
Not if it is still firm. A very wobbly tooth may fall out by itself, while a firm tooth should be checked by a dentist.
Why does the new tooth come in out of line?
Because the root of the baby tooth has not been fully absorbed, or the small jaw lacks room, the new tooth emerges right beside the baby tooth.