Is This Normal? Finder · Mouth and teeth

My puppy has two teeth in one spot. What does that mean?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

It means a baby tooth didn't fall out when the adult tooth came in. It's most common with the long canine teeth, and in small and flat-faced breeds. Call your vet soon. A stuck baby tooth usually needs to come out promptly so the adult tooth can settle in the right spot.

Why it happens

Sometimes the baby tooth hangs on while the adult one comes in beside it. Left in, it can push the adult tooth off course and trap food between them.

Which door?

CALL TODAYA baby tooth didn't fall out. Call your vet soon; it usually shouldn't wait for the spay.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYA thin baby tooth sitting right next to a thicker adult one

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

What helps

Toy and flat-faced breeds: peek at the canines every week or two from about 4 months

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.