Advice regarding persistent juvenile teeth in dogs and cats

As we have just discussed, there are signs that indicates that your pets has problems related to the juvenile teeth (milk teeth).

This is not an unusual problem in dogs and is most commonly seen in small dog breeds within the first six months of their lives. However, is can be seen with other breeds also. 

The condition is only rarely seen in cats.

There can be many different reasons as to why treatment in connection with persistent juvenile teeth may be necessary and most often it relates to one or more of the cases below:

- A double set of teeth.

This means that there is a juvenile tooth, while a permanent tooth has also emerged in the same place. Overall, a permanent tooth should not reach more than half the length of the crown of a juvenile tooth before the juvenile tooth should have fallen out of its own accord. If the juvenile tooth does not fall out at this point then there is a indication for extraction of the juvenile tooth.

- Juvenile teeth that are fractured (with exposed dental pulp).

Tooth damage to juvenile teeth must also be assessed, as the permanent tooth structures within the jaw can be damaged in connection with the fracture. Such damage to the permanent tooth can happen as a result of infection within the pulp of the juvenile tooth or if its root remains within the jawbone.

- Juvenile teeth are loose without falling out over a long period of time.

- The puppy's or kitten`s breath smells bad.

- The puppy or kitten does not want to chew its food or bite toys.

- The puppy or kitten has misaligned juvenile teeth, which can interfere with the gums or hard palate causing discomfort.

- or an alternative type of malocclusion.

Always contact a veterinarian for an emergency evaluation if your animal appears to be in pain and will not eat or drink.