Should Double Dentition Be Removed in Dogs? When?

1. Is It Necessary to Extract Double Teeth in Dogs?

Double teeth in dogs are generally recommended to be removed, as they can pose several issues for the canine. These extra teeth may interfere with the dog's eating habits, leading to a lack of appetite. Moreover, they can disrupt the normal development of the jawbone. Prolonged presence of the milk teeth in the jaw socket can cause them to decay, leading to gum abscesses and infections.

Additionally, double teeth are prone to trapping food particles, making it difficult to clean them effectively through regular brushing. As dogs age, this can lead to bad breath, gingivitis, tartar buildup, loose teeth, and eventually severe stomatitis. These conditions can significantly impact the dog's ability to eat normally and may even shorten their lifespan.

Therefore, if a dog is found to have double teeth during the teething phase, and the milk teeth are affecting the growth of the permanent teeth, it is advisable to have them extracted promptly by a veterinarian. If the milk teeth are loose, providing the dog with dental chews can help accelerate their shedding. However, if both rows of teeth are very strong and numerous, extraction might not be recommended, as it could be too stressful for the dog. In such cases, regular brushing is the better course of action.

2. When Is the Best Time to Extract Double Teeth in Dogs?

During the teething phase, if a new permanent tooth has emerged while the milk tooth is still present, it is advisable to observe the situation for a week. During this time, you can use dental chews to encourage the dog to chew more, and also provide calcium supplements to support healthy teeth. If the milk tooth remains firm, it is best to schedule a visit to the vet for extraction. If the tooth becomes loose, it may naturally fall out on its own.

If a dog has multiple milk teeth that have not fallen out, it is recommended to wait until the dog is about 1 year old before visiting a vet to determine which teeth need to be extracted. It is not advisable to extract a large number of teeth before the dog is 1 year old, as this could lead to loose jawbones and negatively affect the growth of other teeth. It may be beneficial to schedule spaying or neutering and tooth extraction at the same time to minimize the number of anesthetics the dog receives.

This concludes the information on double teeth in dogs. If you have any further questions, feel free to consult with an online veterinary expert.