What To Do When Dogs Teeth Fall Out
Some dogs don’t have any teeth at all, and others just lose a few. It’s not uncommon for dogs to lose their teeth, but it can be a problem if they are losing them too quickly or too often.
There are many reasons why a dog may lose their teeth, including age, genetics, poor diet and illness.
It’s important to make sure that your dog is getting the proper nutrition to keep their teeth healthy. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly with toothpaste and dental chews to help maintain healthy gums and keep plaque from building up on the surface of the tooth.
Is it normal for a dog’s teeth to fall out?
Dogs do not have any baby molars. At around 12 weeks, the deciduous teeth begin to fall out, and the permanent teeth begin to erupt. Normally by 6 months of age, all permanent teeth have erupted, and all deciduous teeth have fallen out.[1]
Does it hurt dogs when they lose their teeth?
When a puppy is about 3-to-4-months-old, puppy teeth begin to fall out to make room for 42 adult teeth. (That’s about 10 more teeth than people have.) This process can be awfully painful for your pup — his gums will be sore.[2]
Should I be worried if my dog loses a tooth?
If you notice loose or missing teeth, bleeding gums or bad dog breath, have your dog examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Periodontal disease can be painful and make it difficult for your dog to eat normally.[3]
Do dogs teeth fall out when they get old?
Ordinarily, adult dogs should not lose their teeth as they age. If they do, it is typically a sign of some type of shock or disease. Injury or trauma, like if your dog hits their head or mouth, can cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. Hard treats like antlers and marrow bones can also damage teeth.[4]
How do dogs eat if they lose their teeth?
Adding hot water, chicken broth, or beef broth to your dog’s favorite kibble and letting it sit for 5 minutes can make the food taste better and much easier to eat. Serving softened dry food helps ease your dog’s dietary transition, because it tastes exactly the same as the food they’re used to.[5]
What do you feed a dog with a loose tooth?
Canned Soft Food. Most dog food brands that make crunchy kibble also make canned, soft food that allows you to stick with the brand you trust. “Just Food for Dogs” (Yes, they help cats too!). Regular Kibble.[6]
Why is my older dog losing teeth?
When an older dog loses teeth, it’s usually down to one of two reasons. They’ve either experienced trauma to the mouth or they’ve developed periodontal disease.[7]
How Long Can dogs live with gum disease?
Periodontal disease is dangerous for pets, and in some cases is known to take up to two years or more off of a pet’s life, if left untreated.[8]
What causes loose teeth in dogs?
Tooth and gum disease – the most common cause of wobbly teeth. If they aren’t removed, wobbly teeth tend to stay in place, causing pain and discomfort for many years. Injuries – such as bumps, collisions, road traffic accidents and chewing on a hard objects.[9]
Can dogs get fake teeth?
YES! Some people may think that dentures are used on humans only, for aesthetic reasons, helping to prevent depression and low self-esteem. But it is absolutely possible for your dog to get dentures too! It is not a routine procedure, though and the risks and expense must be carefully considered.[10]
Do dogs swallow their loose teeth?
You probably won’t find many of your pup’s loose teeth because, more often than not, they swallow them. Don’t fret about seeing the vet, though. Their teeth are so small that they’ll pass right through.[11]
What are the 4 stages of periodontal disease in dogs?
Stage 1: Tartar begins building up and gums begin to redden. Stage 2: Gums continue to be swollen and bone loss begins to develop. Stage 3: Bone loss continues to occur. Stage 4: Severe bone loss can lead to loss of teeth and bloody gums.[12]
