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Noticing that your adult dog still has baby teeth can be surprising and even a little concerning. While most dogs lose their puppy teeth by the time they’re about six months old, retained baby teeth can sometimes stick around longer. If this is happening with your dog, you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to address it safely and effectively.
⚠️ What to Watch For
When adult dogs retain their baby teeth, it’s important to identify the issue early to prevent potential complications. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Two teeth occupying the same spot, especially in the canine (fang) or incisor areas
- Difficulty chewing or noticeable discomfort during meals
- Red, swollen, or irritated gums
- Bad breath (often a sign of dental issues)
- Misaligned adult teeth or an abnormal bite
Regularly checking your dog’s mouth is key to catching these issues. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to investigate further.
🔍 Possible Causes
Retained baby teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, occur when the roots of the baby teeth fail to dissolve as the adult teeth grow in. This can result in the baby teeth staying in place, even when the adult teeth have erupted. The most common reasons for retained teeth include:
- Genetics: Some breeds, like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians, are more prone to this issue.
- Delayed tooth loss: Occasionally, the process of losing baby teeth takes longer than expected.
- Dental crowding: Limited space in the jaw can prevent proper shedding of baby teeth and alignment of adult teeth.
Understanding the underlying cause is crucial, as untreated retained teeth can lead to complications such as infections, gum disease, or damage to the adult teeth.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If you suspect your dog has retained baby teeth, there are a few steps you can take before heading to the vet:
- Check your dog’s mouth regularly: Look for overlapping teeth, swelling, or redness in the gums.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your dog’s teeth daily using a dog-safe toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of gum disease.
- Provide chew toys: Chew toys designed for dental health can help stimulate the gums and promote natural tooth loss in some cases.
While these steps can help manage the situation temporarily, retained baby teeth usually require veterinary attention to resolve completely.
💡 When to Call a Vet
If your dog’s baby teeth haven’t fallen out by the time they’re six months old, or if you notice any signs of discomfort, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. Retained teeth can cause pain, infections, and alignment issues if left untreated. Your vet may recommend the following:
- Dental examination: A thorough check-up to confirm the presence of retained teeth and assess your dog’s overall oral health.
- Dental X-rays: Imaging may be needed to determine the position of the retained tooth and any impact on surrounding teeth or bone.
- Tooth extraction: In most cases, the retained baby tooth will need to be extracted to prevent further complications.
Extracting retained teeth is a common and relatively straightforward procedure, typically performed under anesthesia. Your vet will also provide guidance on post-extraction care to ensure your dog’s recovery is smooth and stress-free.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal for adult dogs to have baby teeth?
A: No, most dogs lose their baby teeth by six months of age. Retained baby teeth are not normal and should be addressed by a veterinarian to prevent oral health issues.
Q: Can retained baby teeth fall out on their own?
A: In rare cases, retained teeth may eventually fall out, but this is uncommon. It’s best to consult a vet for proper evaluation and treatment.
Q: How much does it cost to remove a retained baby tooth?
A: The cost varies depending on factors like location and the complexity of the procedure. Your vet can provide an estimate after examining your dog.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
