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.
In addition to observing the deciduous (baby) teeth once the permanent teeth begin to erupt, the following signs may occur:
None identified.
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.
Tooth fractures refer to tooth injuries involving damage to the enamel, dentin and cement. These injuries occur either on the enamel-covered...
READ MOREStomatitis is the condition where the soft tissues in an animal's mouth, such as the gums and tongue, become irritated and inflamed.
READ MOREAn oral or salivary mucocele refers to a swelling of the soft connective tissues in the dog's mouth. The swelling appears like mucus-filled sack,...
READ MOREAny variation from normal tooth color is discoloration. The normal color of teeth varies, dependent on the shade, thickness and translucency...
READ MORE