This document explores the distinct characteristics and developmental stages of puppy and adult dog teeth.

It highlights the differences in appearance, growth patterns, and the implications for dental health as dogs transition from their puppy years into adulthood.

Understanding these differences is crucial for pet owners to ensure proper dental care throughout their dog’s life.

Puppy Teeth:

• Puppies have about 28 teeth.
• Newborn puppies do not have erupted teeth.
• Baby canine teeth start to come in at 3 to 4 weeks of age.
• Baby incisors and premolars start to come in at 4 to 6 weeks.
• By 8 weeks, all baby teeth have grown in.
• Puppy teeth are smaller and more needle-like than adult teeth.
• There are often gaps between puppy teeth as they grow.
• Puppy teeth crowns are often bright white, semi-translucent with a hint of pink.

Adult Teeth:

• Adult dogs have around 42 teeth.
• Permanent teeth start coming in around 3 to 5 months, usually canines and molars first.
• By 7 months, all permanent teeth have grown in.
• Adult teeth are more chunky and rounded.
• The enamel of adult teeth starts out white but often ages to a creamy color.
• At one year, adult teeth are white and clean.
• By the end of the second year, the white will have dulled and tartar will begin building up, causing yellowing on the back teeth.
• After three to five years, yellowing increases and is visible on all teeth, and there will be noticeable tooth wear.
• From 5 to 10 years, teeth will continue to show increased wear and signs of disease.
• By 10 to 15 years, some teeth may be missing and decay will be widespread.

Puppies lose their baby teeth as adult teeth erupt around 4 months of age, and they may swallow the baby teeth.

The condition of adult teeth can be used to estimate a dog’s age, with wear, tartar buildup, and staining increasing over time.

Proper dental care is essential to maintain the health of both puppy and adult teeth, ensuring a long and healthy life for our canine companions.