puppy teeth

Question
I have a big breed dog and he was born on September 9th 2009. His canine tooth fell out on Monday(15Ffebuary 2010). Is it normal for his teeth to fall out at his age?

Answer


Hi Ash,

By the time a puppy is 6 to 7 months of age, generally all the baby teeth have been replaced with 42 adult or permanent teeth. Occasionally, the normal  process fails, and the baby teeth do not fall out. This is commonly referred to as "retained deciduous (baby) teeth".  The four "canine" teeth are most commonly retained.

You didn't say if the tooth your dog lost was a baby tooth, or if it was an adult tooth. If your dog still has some baby teeth, you should have him examined by a vet. Late diagnosis or late removal of retained baby teeth can result in severe misalignment of teeth and can lead to pain or difficulty eating.

Keep an eye on the gum where the tooth was. If the root has been completely dissolved or lost with the tooth fell out, the gum will heal in 24 hours. If there is an ulcer present after this time, then the root remains and needs to be surgically removed. Don't delay in having your dog examined by a  veterinarian.

If it was an adult tooth that was lost, there is nothing to be done. Your dog will get used to it.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti