Your Dog’s Misaligned Teeth
If your dog’s teeth do not align right, its called malocclusion, which mean the fit of the bite is not right. This condition usually starts as the puppies teeth start coming in. As the dog grows to adulthood, the condition can get better or worsen.
By the time a puppy is about 6 months old he should have about 28 teeth. Those teeth are sharp and pointy so make sure your small children are careful while playing with a puppy. By the time the puppy reaches adulthood, he should have 42 teeth.
This condition has minimal risks to your dog but can cause some discomfort and infection if it is a severe case. Usually malocclusion affects the dog’s ability to chew or pick up the food. Causes of this disorder are mouth injuries and wear on the teeth.
While there are many breeds with this affliction naturally, the overbite and underbite are the most common malocclusion. Most dogs seem to be unaffected by this problem. The scissor bite is also most common, except in the flat nose breeds.
When you are looking for a pure breed dog there are certain characteristics that are common to their breed. The scissor bite is one of those malocclusions that is not common in the flat nosed dogs like Boxers, Shih Tsuz and Lhasa Apsos’. If the dog has a scissor bite, then you might not be getting a purebred.
Smaller gaps in puppies can usually correct themselves. If a dog is older than 10 months, then the gap is already set and you will need to seek the help of your vet to correct it. If it were not affecting the dogs eating or picking up, then I would not worry.
Your dog’s overbite may worsen as the permanent teeth come in because they are larger and can damage the soft parts of the mouth. Teeth extractions are sometimes necessary. Just check with your vet if you are concerned or notice that the dog is not eating.
Depending on the severity, you might just want to consult your vet for their opinion. I have heard of situation where puppies have been fitted with braces, but I do not think I am ready for that. What will they think of next; contact lenses?
I do certainly feel that we are responsible for making our pet’s life a good one. Be diligent in the care of your dog. Regular checkups and vaccinations can increase the life of your dog and keep them healthy and happy.
Related posts:
- Healthy Teeth Means Better Breath for Your Dog
- Don’t Neglect your Dog’s Teeth
- Healthy Teeth for your Dog
Filed under: Dogs
Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!
