Retained Deciduous Teeth in Dogs

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Retained deciduous teeth in dogs are those that have not been replaced by permanent teeth through the normal tooth replacement process.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

The tooth change in dogs usually begins at the age of about three to six months. The permanent teeth grow under the deciduous teeth and dissolve their roots, which usually causes the deciduous teeth to fall out.

Retained deciduous teeth are more common in small dog breeds, but are also possible in large breeds. This problem often affects the canines, but can also affect other teeth.

A possible cause for retained deciduous teeth can be genetic. Some dogs may have a hereditary trait that affects the normal tooth change process. Another cause could be a lack of resorption of the deciduous tooth roots, which means that the permanent tooth cannot exert the correct pressure to displace the deciduous tooth.

In addition, the permanent tooth may grow in the wrong position, which means that the deciduous tooth does not fall out. This leads to a double row of teeth, also known as “tooth collision”.

Typical accompanying symptoms

  • Displaced teeth: If the permanent teeth grow next to the retained deciduous teeth, this can lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth.
  • Gingivitis: The presence of two teeth in one space can irritate the gums and lead to inflammatory conditions.
  • Bad breath: An increased accumulation of bacteria due to the double row of teeth can cause bad breath.
  • Pain or discomfort: The pressure in the jaw from the double teeth can be uncomfortable for the dog and cause Pain.
  • Difficulty chewing: The dog may have difficulty breaking down food properly, which can lead to reduced food intake.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinarian should be consulted if the dog still has visible deciduous teeth after the age of six months. This is especially important if the permanent teeth have already erupted and the deciduous teeth are still present.

Also, if the dog shows signs of Pain, difficulty eating, or signs of gingivitis, a visit to the veterinarian is necessary. Early treatment can help avoid further complications.

If the dog shows persistent bad breath or Swelling in the mouth area, a veterinarian should also be consulted, as this could indicate an infection or other dental problems.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

Pet owners can recognize retained deciduous teeth by regularly checking their dog’s teeth. If they notice that permanent teeth have erupted while the corresponding deciduous teeth are still present, they should pay attention.

The veterinarian will perform a clinical examination of the teeth. This includes inspecting the teeth and gums, as well as assessing the tooth position. If necessary, the veterinarian will take X-rays to examine the position of the teeth and the roots more closely.

The diagnosis is also made based on the medical history and the observed symptoms. The veterinarian will recommend the best course of action based on the individual case of the dog.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

If retained deciduous teeth are found, the pet owner should follow the veterinarian’s advice. In many cases, the veterinarian will recommend extracting the retained deciduous teeth to make room for the permanent teeth and avoid further dental problems.

Until the veterinary examination, the pet owner can make sure to give the dog soft food to minimize the pressure on the teeth and avoid Pain.

It is important to monitor and, if necessary, improve the dog’s oral hygiene to avoid inflammatory conditions. Regular brushing of teeth and the use of suitable dental care products for dogs can help support oral health.

The pet owner should closely observe any changes in the dog’s behavior, especially in relation to eating and chewing, and inform the veterinarian of these.

In cases where the dog shows significant Pain, the pet owner should inform the veterinarian immediately to enable appropriate Pain treatment and ensure the dog’s well-being.

Outlook on current research

The persistence of deciduous teeth in dogs is a phenomenon that is increasingly attracting the attention of veterinarians and researchers. While the change from deciduous to permanent teeth in dogs usually occurs between the fourth and sixth month of life, some dogs may experience delayed or incomplete resorption of the deciduous tooth structures. Current research focuses on identifying genetic factors that may be responsible for these disorders. Breed differences suggest that certain genetic markers may be present that influence the risk of retained deciduous teeth.

Another area of research is investigating the mechanical and biological processes that control tooth change. Studies show that hormonal changes may play a role, especially in connection with the growth and development of the jaw. The role of nutrition and environmental factors is also being investigated to understand whether and how external influences can affect the tooth change process. Particular attention is paid to the interactions between calcium and phosphate metabolism, which are crucial for tooth development.

Technological advances in imaging techniques allow researchers to observe the tooth change process in real time. The latest developments in 3D imaging and microtomography offer detailed insights into the structure and development of dog teeth. These technologies help to better understand the specific anomalies in dogs with retained deciduous teeth and to develop targeted treatment approaches. Studies are also being carried out to compare the effectiveness of various surgical and non-surgical treatment methods in order to determine which approaches provide the best long-term results.

Long-term studies are underway to determine how retained deciduous teeth affect the overall dental health and well-being of dogs. This research also considers the potential impact on adjacent tooth structures and susceptibility to dental diseases. The results of this research could lead to new guidelines for prophylactic dental medicine in dogs and highlight the need for regular dental check-ups.

Frequently asked questions

  1. What are retained deciduous teeth in dogs? Retained deciduous teeth are those that do not fall out, even though the permanent teeth have already erupted. This can lead to misalignment of the teeth and other dental problems.

  2. Is it normal for a dog to retain deciduous teeth? It is not normal for a dog to permanently retain deciduous teeth. The tooth change should be completed by the sixth month of life. Retained deciduous teeth should be examined by a veterinarian.

  3. What problems can arise from retained deciduous teeth? Retained deciduous teeth can lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth, gum disease and an increased risk of tooth fractures. They can also cause Pain and discomfort.

  4. Which dogs are most commonly affected? Smaller breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles and Chihuahuas are more frequently affected by retained deciduous teeth. However, it can occur in any breed.

  5. How are retained deciduous teeth treated? The most common treatment is the extraction of the retained deciduous teeth by a veterinarian to make room for the permanent teeth and avoid complications.

  6. Can retained deciduous teeth fall out on their own? In some cases, retained deciduous teeth may fall out on their own, but this is not guaranteed. A veterinary examination is advisable to minimize the risk of complications.

  7. Can I do anything myself to help my dog? Regular monitoring of your dog’s teeth and good dental hygiene can help to identify problems early on. A veterinarian should be consulted if retained deciduous teeth are suspected.

  8. Are there preventive measures? Regular veterinary examinations during the growth phase can help to identify retained deciduous teeth early on. A balanced diet supports tooth development.

  9. How do I recognize retained deciduous teeth? Retained deciduous teeth are often recognizable when two teeth stand next to each other in the same row of teeth. An uneven or crowded dental arch can also indicate this.

  10. Are retained deciduous teeth painful for dogs? Yes, retained deciduous teeth can be painful, especially if they lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth or irritate the gums. Veterinary treatment is important to relieve Pain.

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