Retained deciduous (baby) teeth are a very common dental problem seen in puppies and young dogs. The condition occurs when the baby tooth and the adult tooth are present at the same time. A baby tooth is not resorbed unless the permanent tooth develops directly underneath. The canine teeth and the incisor teeth are most commonly affected.

Retained Deciduous Teeth - The adult and baby teeth are present

Retained deciduous (baby) teeth are most frequently seen in the toy breeds; Miniature Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzers, Pomeranian and Dachshunds. The condition is seen less frequently in the larger breeds and cats.

Retained deciduous teeth are a problem when they cause displacement of the permanent teeth. Due to the location of the deciduous teeth, the permanent teeth cannot erupt normally. Retained deciduous teeth often lead to a condition known as malocclusion.

Extraction is the treatment for retained deciduous teeth.