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Retained Deciduous Teeth in Dogs

A retained or persistent deciduous (baby) tooth is one that is still present despite the eruption of the permanent tooth (between three to seven months of age). This can cause the permanent teeth to erupt in abnormal positions, resulting in an incorrect bite pattern (or how the upper and lower teeth fit together when biting or chewing). Retained deciduous teeth may also cause overcrowding of teeth, accidental bites into the palate, or an abnormal jaw position.

As with most oral issues, early recognition and immediate dental care is essential to prevent permanent damage. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed until later in life.

Retained deciduous teeth are more common in dogs, though it does occur in cats. It often affects smaller breeds of dog, including the Maltese, Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranian.

Symptoms and Types

In addition to observing the deciduous (baby) teeth once the permanent teeth begin to erupt, the following signs may occur:

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Abnormally-positioned permanent teeth
• Swollen, red, bleeding gums around baby teeth
• Local gingivitis and periodontal disease due to teeth overcrowding
• A permanent abnormal passageway between the mouth and nasal cavity (oronasal fistula)

Causes

None identified.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam and inspect your dog's mouth.  He or she will chart the teeth present in the mouth to and record the presence of deciduous teeth. X-rays of the inside of the mouth will also be taken to verify which teeth are permanent and which are deciduous, and whether baby teeth have permanent successors ready to replace them.