Retained Baby Teeth in Pets: What You Need to Know

By Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital

When your puppy or kitten loses their baby teeth, it’s a sign they’re growing up. But sometimes, baby teeth don’t fall out like they should. This condition, called retained baby teeth, is common and important to address for your pet’s dental health.

What Are Retained Baby Teeth?

Retained baby teeth occur when the deciduous (baby) teeth don’t fall out on time and remain alongside the adult teeth. This can cause overcrowding, misalignment, and increase the risk of dental problems like tartar buildup and gum disease.

Why Is It a Concern?

If baby teeth stay in place too long, they can trap food and bacteria, leading to painful infections or damage to adult teeth. Overcrowding can also make chewing uncomfortable for your pet.

How Do You Know if Your Pet Has Retained Baby Teeth?

You might notice your pet’s adult teeth coming in beside small, sharp baby teeth that haven’t fallen out. Your pet may also have bad breath, difficulty chewing, or redness and swelling around the gums.

What Should You Do?

If you suspect your pet has retained baby teeth, bring them to Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital for a dental checkup. Our veterinarians will examine your pet’s mouth and may recommend removing the retained teeth to prevent future problems.

Preventive Care

Regular dental checkups for your puppy or kitten can catch retained baby teeth early. Keeping an eye on your pet’s teething process and practicing good dental hygiene helps maintain a healthy mouth.