Deciduous, or baby teeth, are the temporary teeth that puppies have before their permanent adult teeth erupt. Dogs typically start to get their deciduous teeth at around 3 to 4 weeks of age, and these teeth will fall out and be replaced by permanent adult teeth starting at around 3 months of age.
The eruption of deciduous teeth in dogs follows a specific pattern, with the incisors (front teeth) being the first to come in, followed by the canine teeth, and premolars. Puppies do not have deciduous molar teeth. It is important for puppy owners to monitor the eruption of their puppy’s deciduous teeth to ensure that they are coming in properly and that there are no issues with overcrowding or retained baby teeth that can interfere with the eruption of adult teeth.
If you notice any abnormalities or issues with your puppy’s deciduous teeth, such as retained baby teeth, overcrowding, or misalignment, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for guidance. In some cases, the veterinarian may need to extract retained baby teeth to prevent dental issues or misalignment of the adult teeth. Regular dental check-ups and proper dental care are essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health throughout their life.
Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist in Houston
If you are the proud owner of a puppy, or if you have any questions at all about your dog’s teeth, give us a call!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (7/23/2024). Photo by Joe Caione on Unsplash