Why double teeth occur
The baby tooth holds on more firmly than it should and does not let the permanent tooth take its proper place. This most often concerns the canines, sometimes the premolars. The reasons include a weak root of the baby tooth, a tight bite and individual features of eruption.
It happens in different breeds — from small to large. What matters is to assess the puppy's age and the position of both teeth.
Why it is a problem
Double teeth create a poor bite, collect plaque between the teeth and can affect the position of the permanent teeth for many years.
Retained baby teeth are not a “small thing”. Early intervention is often simpler than correcting the bite in adulthood.
- The permanent tooth sits in the wrong position
- Plaque builds up between the baby tooth and the permanent tooth
- A risk of early periodontal disease in this area
- A possible effect on the bite in adulthood
When a dentist's help is needed
If a baby tooth has not fallen out by a certain age — usually around 6 months for the canines — it is worth showing the puppy to a dentist. A delay can complicate the bite.
At the examination I assess the position of the teeth and, where needed, take X-rays — to see the root of the baby tooth and the position of the permanent one.
What I do at the appointment
A retained baby tooth is extracted under anaesthesia with monitoring. The procedure is usually short. I explain the recovery and when to expect the permanent tooth to move into its normal position.
In some cases observation is enough — if the baby tooth is close to falling out and the permanent tooth is taking the right place.
Prevention and monitoring
Regular checks of a puppy's bite are part of dental prevention. I recommend a check when the permanent canines appear.
Brushing at home with veterinary toothpaste — once the permanent teeth have come through, introduced gradually.
What the owner should do
If you notice double canines, take a photo and book a consultation. Do not try to remove the baby tooth yourself. Do not wait until 12 months without an examination.
When to see a vet
- A baby canine (or premolar) and a permanent one stand side by side
- The puppy is older than 6 months and the baby canines are still in place
- A noticeably poor bite or plaque building up between the teeth
- A routine bite check for a puppy
- A baby tooth moves but does not fall out for weeks
- A permanent tooth is erupting in the wrong position
- An X-ray assessment is needed before extraction
- After extraction — a check on the position of the permanent tooth
What not to do at home
- Do not wait “until it falls out on its own” without an examination — a delay can harm the bite
- Do not try to remove a baby tooth yourself
- Do not ignore the problem because double canines look “cute”
- Do not use human toothpaste for care
- Do not put the visit off until 12 months
Frequently asked questions
The procedure is done under anaesthesia with monitoring. I explain the recovery afterwards.
Yes, to assess the root of the baby tooth and the position of the permanent one. This is standard before extraction.
Sometimes, yes, but a delay can harm the bite. I assess whether it is worth waiting.
Yes, baby premolars are sometimes retained as well. The approach is the same — assessment and extraction where clinically indicated.
Gradually, once the permanent teeth appear. Use veterinary toothpaste, not human toothpaste.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesGlobal guidelines for veterinary dentistry
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsClinical guidelines for dental care
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