Persistent Deciduous Teeth in Dogs

Breeds documented
2
Published sources
4

Overview

Baby teeth normally fall out as adult teeth take their place. A persistent deciduous tooth is a baby tooth that stays in the mouth when its adult replacement is emerging. The two teeth may crowd each other, shifting the adult tooth into an uncomfortable position and increasing the risk of gum disease. Sometimes a baby tooth remains because no adult replacement develops.

Signs to watch for

  • A baby tooth beside an emerging adult tooth
  • Two pointed teeth crowded into the same area
  • Adult teeth coming through in an unusual position

Usually noticed in puppyhood as baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth.

When to get help Book a veterinary dental visit as soon as a baby tooth remains beside its adult replacement.

Diagnosis and tests

The vet checks which teeth are baby teeth and whether their adult replacements are present or emerging. Dental X-rays help identify an unusually small tooth and show whether an apparently missing adult tooth is still below the gum. They also help assess the retained tooth and surrounding tissues for disease.

Breeds with documented risk

2 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Toy
  • 1 Medium

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. merckvetmanual.com
  2. merckvetmanual.com
  3. Drever: uusi.dreeveri.fi
  4. Russian Toy: skk.se