Understanding your dog’s dental health is crucial for their overall well-being. Just like humans, dogs have different sets of teeth throughout their lives. If you’ve ever wondered about the specifics of your furry friend’s pearly whites, particularly how many teeth adult dogs have, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about adult dog teeth, from the number and types to potential problems and preventative care.
Adult dogs boast a full set of permanent teeth designed for a lifetime of chewing, gnawing, and exploring the world with their mouths. But how does this compare to puppies or even humans? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of canine dentition and uncover the answers to your burning questions about your dog’s teeth.
Decoding the Number: How Many Teeth Do Adult Dogs Possess?
Adult dogs are equipped with 42 permanent teeth. This is a significant increase from their puppy days and more than the 32 teeth found in adult humans. This number is consistent across all dog breeds, regardless of size, from a tiny Chihuahua to a Great Dane. While the size and shape of the teeth may vary slightly between breeds, the total count remains the same.
To further break it down, an adult dog’s mouth is divided into two jaws:
- Maxilla (Upper Jaw): Houses 20 teeth
- Mandible (Lower Jaw): Holds 22 teeth
This difference in number is due to an extra molar on each side of the lower jaw, providing additional chewing power.
The development of these permanent teeth is a gradual process, occurring as puppies mature. Let’s explore how this contrasts with their earlier puppy teeth set.
From Puppy to Adult: The Dental Transition
Puppies are not born with teeth. Instead, they develop a set of temporary, or deciduous, teeth, often referred to as “puppy teeth” or “milk teeth.” These teeth are smaller and sharper than adult teeth, perfectly suited for a young puppy’s needs.
Puppy teeth begin to emerge around 3 to 4 weeks of age, a process known as eruption. By the time a puppy is around 3 to 5 months old, they typically have a full set of 28 puppy teeth.
The transition to adult teeth begins around 3 to 4 months of age when the puppy teeth start to fall out to make way for the larger, permanent adult teeth. This process is similar to baby teeth falling out in children. The eruption of permanent teeth in dogs generally occurs between 3 and 7 months of age.
However, it’s worth noting that smaller dog breeds may experience a slightly delayed eruption of both puppy and adult teeth compared to larger breeds.
Understanding the Different Types of Adult Dog Teeth
Each of the 42 adult teeth in a dog’s mouth plays a specific role, contributing to their ability to eat, groom, and explore. There are four main types of teeth in adult dogs, each with a unique shape and function:
Incisors: The Front-Line Nibblers
Located at the very front of the mouth, both in the upper and lower jaws, are the incisors. Adult dogs have 12 incisors in total – six on the top and six on the bottom. These are small teeth with a single root, primarily used for:
- Grabbing and Picking Up: Incisors are ideal for picking up food pieces, toys, or other objects.
- Scraping and Nibbling: They help scrape meat off bones or nibble at food.
- Grooming: Dogs use their incisors for grooming, such as removing fleas or ticks or gently scratching themselves.
Canines: The Powerful Piercers
Positioned directly behind the incisors are the canine teeth. These are easily recognizable as the four longest teeth in a dog’s mouth, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw, totaling 4 canine teeth. Canines are strong, pointed, and slightly curved, designed for:
- Tearing and Puncturing: Canines are essential for tearing meat, puncturing tough materials, and holding onto prey in wild canids.
- Defense: They also serve as formidable weapons for defense if needed.
Premolars: The Versatile Chewers
Moving further back in the mouth, we find the premolars. Adult dogs have a significant number of premolars – 16 in total, with eight in the upper jaw and eight in the lower jaw. Premolars are located just behind the canines and are characterized by their sharp, ridged surfaces, perfect for:
- Shearing and Cutting: Premolars are primarily used for breaking down food into smaller pieces by shearing and cutting.
- Grinding: They also contribute to the grinding process, preparing food for swallowing.
Molars: The Mighty Grinders
Located at the very back of the mouth are the molars. These teeth are similar in appearance to premolars but are generally larger and flatter. Adult dogs have 10 molars – four in the upper jaw and six in the lower jaw. Molars are the workhorses of chewing, responsible for:
- Grinding and Mashing: Molars are specialized for grinding food into a fine paste, making it easier to swallow and digest.
- Chewing Bones: They are also used for crushing bones and other hard materials.
Tooth Loss in Adult Dogs: When to Be Concerned
While puppies naturally lose their teeth as part of the transition to adulthood, tooth loss in adult dogs is not normal and is often a sign of an underlying dental problem or injury. If you notice your adult dog losing teeth, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly.
Here are the most common reasons for tooth loss in adult dogs:
Periodontal Disease: The Silent Threat
The most prevalent cause of tooth loss in adult dogs is periodontal disease, also known as dental disease. This condition is an infection and inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. It starts with plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to:
- Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums.
- Periodontitis: More severe stage involving damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is often preventable with proper dental care, including regular tooth brushing and professional veterinary dental cleanings. Untreated periodontal disease can be painful, lead to tooth loss, and even have systemic effects on organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys due to bacterial spread.
Trauma: Accidents Happen
Dental trauma, resulting from accidents or chewing on inappropriate items, is another common cause of tooth loss. Dogs explore the world with their mouths and can sustain injuries from:
- Chewing Hard Objects: Bones, rocks, ice cubes, and hard toys can fracture or damage teeth, leading to loss.
- Mouth Injuries: Impacts to the mouth from falls, fights, or car accidents can also result in tooth loss.
It’s important to provide your dog with safe chew toys and avoid giving them hard items that could damage their teeth.
Tooth Decay: Less Common but Possible
While less frequent in dogs than in humans, tooth decay (cavities or dental caries) can occur. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the enamel, leading to decay and potential tooth loss. Certain factors can increase the risk of tooth decay in dogs, including:
- Diet: High-carbohydrate diets can contribute to plaque buildup and decay.
- Genetics: Some breeds may be more predisposed to tooth decay.
Veterinary dental cleanings and a balanced diet can help prevent tooth decay in dogs.
Maintaining a Healthy Set of Adult Dog Teeth
Preventing tooth loss and maintaining your adult dog’s dental health is a proactive effort. Here are key steps you can take:
- Daily Tooth Brushing: The gold standard for home dental care is daily tooth brushing using a vet-recommended dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which can be toxic to dogs).
- Veterinary Dental Cleanings: Regular professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are essential to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline, where brushing can’t reach. Your veterinarian will recommend a cleaning schedule based on your dog’s individual needs.
- Dental Chews and Treats: Certain dental chews and treats are formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
- Dental Diet: Some dog foods are specifically designed to promote dental health through kibble size and texture.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Include dental health as part of your dog’s annual or bi-annual veterinary exam. Your vet can identify early signs of dental problems and recommend preventative measures.
Don’t wait until your dog shows signs of dental pain or tooth loss. Proactive dental care is crucial for their long-term health and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Dog Teeth
Do dogs have wisdom teeth?
No, dogs do not have wisdom teeth, unlike humans. Their dental formula is different and does not include these late-erupting molars.
Are dogs born with teeth?
No, puppies are not born with visible teeth. Their puppy teeth begin to erupt at around 3 to 4 weeks of age.
How many teeth do small dogs have compared to large dogs?
The number of teeth is the same for all adult dogs, regardless of size. Both small and large breed adult dogs have 42 teeth.
What are retained deciduous teeth in adult dogs?
Retained deciduous teeth occur when puppy teeth do not fall out as adult teeth erupt. This can lead to overcrowding and dental problems. It’s more common in small breeds and often requires veterinary intervention to remove the retained puppy teeth.
Conclusion: A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Understanding how many teeth adult dogs have and the importance of their dental health is a vital part of responsible pet ownership. By knowing the types of teeth, potential dental issues, and preventative care strategies, you can help ensure your canine companion enjoys a lifetime of healthy teeth and happy smiles. Remember, consistent at-home care and regular veterinary dental checkups are the keys to keeping your dog’s pearly whites in top condition.
WRITTEN BY
Monica Tarantino, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Monica Tarantino is a small animal veterinarian and pet parent educator. She’s on a mission to help senior cats and dogs around the…
