Dog Dental Problems

Dogs can have a variety of dental problems that can start when they are puppies. They have 28 temporary, or "puppy", teeth they use until they are about four months old, and then 48 permanent teeth begin to appear. Puppies can have trouble with the puppy teeth not falling out and getting in the way of the permanent teeth. They can have trouble with the permanent teeth emerging, too. Older dogs can suffer gum disease, broken teeth, and a variety of other dental problems. Good maintenance, including regular cleanings, can help avoid many of these problems. You can also feed food and treats that help control tartar building and promote cleaner teeth.