Malocclusions in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
By six months old, puppies usually have 28 baby teeth. As they grow into adulthood, the typical adult dog develops 42 teeth. Malocclusions occur when these teeth don’t align properly, a misalignment that commonly begins as puppy teeth come in and may worsen with adult teeth eruption, potentially leading to oral discomfort and dental issues.
Dogs use their front small teeth, called incisors, on both the upper and lower jaws to grasp food and keep the tongue in place. Right behind these are the canine teeth, often referred to as fangs, which help in gripping objects. Premolars follow the canines, assisting in cutting food, while the molars located at the back are mainly used for chewing.
Signs Your Dog May Have Malocclusion
When dogs experience malocclusions, they might face several problems, including:
- Periodontal disease from plaque and tartar buildup
- Discomfort caused by misaligned teeth rubbing against the roof or floor of the mouth
- Excessive wear and tear on the teeth
- Struggles with grabbing, chewing, or processing food efficiently
- Increased accumulation of plaque and tartar that accelerates dental issues
Continued teeth rubbing can lead to soft tissue injuries such as fistulas, which are openings that may become infected. Common types of malocclusion include:
- Overbite (overshot jaw): the upper jaw extends longer than the lower jaw, creating a gap between incisors
- Underbite (undershot jaw): when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw
- Level bite: when both jaws align evenly
- Open bite: front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed
- Anterior cross-bite: lower incisors grow in front of upper incisors despite premolars aligning correctly
- Posterior cross-bite: premolars improperly overlap
- Wry mouth: one side of the jaw is longer than the other
- Base narrow canines: inward-angled lower teeth that can injure the upper palate
An ideal scissor bite occurs when a dog's premolars fit neatly between the gaps of their opposite premolars. In the U.S., flat-faced brachycephalic breeds such as Shih Tzu puppies, Boxer puppies, Biewer Terrier puppies, and Lhasa Apso puppies commonly lack ideal scissor bites and are more prone to malocclusions.
Causes of Malocclusions in Dogs
Malocclusions arise from incorrect alignment of the upper and lower teeth, known as occlusion. Normal occlusion is when the lower canines fit just in front of the upper canines when the mouth closes. Genetics largely influence malocclusion, with some breeds, especially brachycephalic and small breeds, genetically predisposed due to unique jaw and tooth structures.
Other factors such as retained baby teeth or injuries to the mouth can contribute to malocclusion development. For example, in the U.S., breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers show higher instances of malocclusion.
Treatment & Management Strategies
Not all dogs with malocclusions require treatment, especially if there’s no pain or interference with eating. However, if a dog suffers from pain, soft tissue injury, or has difficulty eating, professional intervention by a veterinarian is advisable.
Common treatments include:
- Extracting problematic baby or adult teeth to prevent oral damage
- Specialized orthodontic treatments such as braces or reshaping teeth, although this is less common and generally found in specialty practices
- Routine dental cleanings to reduce plaque and tartar buildup and prevent periodontal disease
Prompt treatment following veterinary diagnosis improves your dog's comfort and oral health. Early detection is crucial, since a dog's bite typically stabilizes by about 10 months of age. Obtaining puppies from reputable breeders emphasizes genetic health and may lower inherited dental problems.
Tips for Maintaining Your Dog’s Oral Health
Good oral hygiene is essential, regardless of whether your dog has malocclusion. Regular tooth brushing at home, professional dental check-ups, and special dental diets or treats designed to minimize tartar are helpful in maintaining healthy teeth and gums in dogs.
When Do Puppies Start Losing Their Baby Teeth?
Quick Answer: Puppies normally shed their deciduous teeth and start getting adult teeth between 12 and 16 weeks old.
This is a natural developmental stage. If a puppy retains baby teeth or if shedding is irregular, this could signal dental issues, including malocclusion. Regular veterinary dental exams are recommended to monitor proper tooth replacement and oral health.
How to Responsibly Buy a Puppy
When selecting a puppy, buying from reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and genetic screening significantly reduces risks of hereditary problems like malocclusions. Avoid impulsive purchases or puppy mills, as they often neglect important health and dental checks.
Early care, regular dental assessments, and prompt veterinary attention offer the best outcomes for dogs dealing with malocclusions.
