Will Double Dentition Fall Out on Its Own in Dogs? How

Section 1: Causes of Double Dentition in Dogs

Dogs typically begin the process of teething between the ages of 4 to 6 months. During this stage, their deciduous (baby) teeth begin to fall out, making way for the permanent teeth to emerge in their original positions. However, if the baby teeth do not fall out in time, the permanent teeth may grow in a different direction, leading to a condition known as double dentition in dogs.

There are several primary reasons why dogs might develop double dentition:

1. A deficiency in calcium can weaken the growth of permanent teeth, making it difficult for the baby teeth to fall out and causing the permanent teeth to grow in an incorrect position.

2. An abnormal direction of eruption for the permanent teeth can prevent the root ends of the baby teeth from being fully absorbed.

3. Misalignment of the permanent tooth buds and the positions of the baby teeth can lead to the retention of the baby teeth.

Section 2: The Dangers of Double Dentition in Dogs

Double dentition in dogs, often likened to a human overbite, may seem like a mere cosmetic issue, but it can have a range of negative impacts on the dog's health.

1. First, the retained baby teeth can interfere with the normal development of the emerging permanent teeth, potentially causing misalignment or malformation, leading to an incorrect bite.

2. Double dentition can trap food particles more easily than normal teeth, making it extremely challenging to clean. Regular cleaning tools like finger brushes and toothbrushes may not be effective, leading to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, as well as bad breath.

3. Since double dentition can harbor food particles, it creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can lead to oral diseases such as ulcers, tartar, and inflamed gums. Moreover, these oral bacteria can enter the digestive tract, causing discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe oral health issues can even lead to difficulty eating and ultimately affect the dog's lifespan.

In conclusion, if you notice your dog has double dentition, it's crucial to take action promptly. Have the veterinarian remove any retained baby teeth to allow the permanent teeth to grow correctly. During the teething phase, consider supplementing your dog's diet with calcium, such as with highenergy calcium supplements from brands like Pu'an or by purchasing calcium powder from a veterinary clinic. This can prevent the development of double dentition due to calcium deficiency and also support bone growth.