Developmental dental disorders in pets - Dogs and cats

In dogs and cats, abnormalities can arise during the growth and development of the teeth. These developmental disorders can lead to problems with eating, pain, or dental damage. Some abnormalities are mild and cause little discomfort, while others require intensive treatment.

In this article, we discuss the most common developmental dental disorders, their causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

What are developmental dental disorders?

Developmental disorders are abnormalities that arise during the formation and eruption of teeth. They can be hereditary, the result of trauma, or caused by illnesses during growth.

Toy breeds (< 5 kg) and brachycephalic breeds are the most susceptible to dental problems and abnormalities.

Examples of developmental disorders

• Persistent baby teeth: baby teeth that do not fall out and interfere with permanent teeth
• Malocclusion: abnormal positioning of teeth or jaws, such as an underbite or overbite
• Hypodontia or oligodontia: the absence of one or more teeth
• Supernumerary teeth: extra teeth that do not belong in the normal dentition
• Enamel hypoplasia: abnormal or weak enamel formation
• Dental abnormalities due to trauma or infections during growth

Symptoms and effects

• Difficulty chewing or eating
• Misalignment of teeth or jaws
• Pain or sensitivity in the mouth
• Increased risk of tartar and gum inflammation
• Wear or fracture of teeth due to an incorrect bite
• Development of cysts around impacted teeth

Diagnosis of developmental disorders

The diagnosis is made during a clinical examination by the veterinarian or dental specialist. Additional examination may include dental radiography to assess the roots, tooth structure, and jawbone, and to detect any missing teeth.

Treatment of developmental disorders

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the abnormality:

• Persistent baby teeth: extraction to give permanent teeth room
• Malocclusion: sometimes extraction or orthodontic correction
• Missing or extra teeth: monitoring or extraction if problematic
• Enamel hypoplasia: protecting the teeth with special fillings

An early diagnosis is important to prevent permanent damage to the teeth.

Prognosis

Many developmental disorders can be treated successfully, especially when detected early. In severe abnormalities such as malocclusions, long-term dental care may be needed.

Want to know more?

Read more about dentistry at Nesto. Our veterinarians have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating dental abnormalities in dogs and cats.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Are developmental dental disorders hereditary?

Some abnormalities, such as malocclusions and missing teeth, can be hereditary.

Do persistent baby teeth always need to be removed?

Yes, because they interfere with permanent teeth and cause dental problems.

Can a crooked bite in a dog be treated?

Yes, sometimes through extractions or orthodontic correction by specialized veterinarians.

Is enamel hypoplasia painful?

Yes, because the teeth are more sensitive and wear down or fracture more quickly.

Can cats also have developmental disorders?

Yes, a well-known example is persistent baby teeth, where baby teeth fail to fall out and bite problems can develop. In addition, we see malocclusions more often in breeds with a rounded skull, such as the British Shorthair and the Persian. Young cats can also develop juvenile gingivitis, with painful and inflamed gums. A dental check-up during or shortly after the tooth-replacement period is recommended to detect any problems early.