TL;DR: Double canine teeth are not an immediate medical emergency but require a veterinary exam to prevent long-term issues like misaligned teeth, oral pain, and gum disease.
What are double canine teeth in puppies?
Double canine teeth occur when a puppy's deciduous (baby) tooth fails to fall out as the permanent adult tooth begins to erupt. Normally, the root of the baby tooth should be absorbed by the body, allowing it to loosen and fall out. When this doesn't happen, both teeth occupy the same socket, a condition technically known as retained deciduous teeth. This is particularly common in small and toy breed dogs.
Is it an emergency if my dog has double canine teeth?
The urgency level for double canine teeth is Low. While this is not a medical emergency that requires an immediate trip to the ER, it should not be ignored. If the baby tooth is not removed, it can lead to several complications:
- Adult teeth growing in at an incorrect angle, leading to bite issues (malocclusion).
- Oral pain or discomfort for your pet.
- Early-onset periodontal disease caused by food and bacteria becoming trapped between the two teeth.
How does taking a photo help my vet triage my dog's teeth?
- A clear photo allows the veterinarian to see the exact positioning of the teeth.
- The clinical team can check for any immediate signs of gum inflammation or trauma to the roof of the mouth.
- A visual assessment helps determine if the extraction can wait until a scheduled spay/neuter procedure or if a separate dental appointment should be prioritized.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In dogs, retained deciduous teeth, particularly canine teeth, are common due to the failure of the periodontal ligament to detach, with the permanent canine teeth typically erupting in an abnormal position. The permanent maxillary canine tooth erupts rostral to the deciduous tooth, while the permanent mandibular canine tooth erupts lingual to the deciduous tooth. This retention can cause permanent tooth displacement, potentially leading to malocclusion, food entrapment, and subsequent periodontal disease. A deciduous tooth should be extracted when it remains firmly attached after the permanent tooth has erupted; care should be taken not to damage the underlying permanent tooth bud.
Chapter: Dentistry
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 183)