If you’ve ever noticed your dog’s bright smile or those sharp little front teeth, you may have wondered how many teeth they actually have. The answer is that most adult dogs have 42 teeth, quite a few more than humans. But these teeth aren’t just for looks. Each one plays a role in a dog’s ability to grip, tear, and chew food effectively.

What are the Types of Dog Teeth?

An adult dog has a complete set of 42 teeth with four different types. Here are the different types of dog teeth:

Incisors

Incisors are the small, narrow teeth located at the very front of a dog’s mouth. Adult dogs have six incisors on the top and six on the bottom. Dogs often use their incisors to gently pick up small objects, nibble at food, and even groom their fur or scratch an itch.

These teeth are ideal for precision tasks, like picking food particles out of fur or delicately handling small items.

Canines

The canines, sometimes called “fangs,” are the long, pointed teeth located just behind the incisors. Adult dogs have two canines on the top and two on the bottom. Canine teeth are designed for holding and tearing. They are extremely strong and help dogs hold onto objects securely, whether it’s a bone, a toy, or food.

Canines are especially useful for tearing meat or other tough food items and also play a role in defensive behaviors, such as when a dog bares its teeth.

Premolars

Behind the canines, you’ll find the premolars, which are located along the sides of the mouth. Dogs have eight premolars on the top and eight on the bottom. Premolars are used for chewing and shearing. They have sharp edges that help tear food into smaller pieces, giving dogs an easier time chewing and swallowing.

Premolars are essential when dogs eat or chew on tougher foods, as they allow them to break down these items into manageable pieces. Dogs may also use these teeth to grip and shred objects when playing with toys.

Molars

Molars are the largest teeth in a dog’s mouth and are located at the back of the mouth. Unlike baby teeth, molars only appear in a dog’s adult set, with four molars on the top and six on the bottom. Molars are designed for heavy-duty grinding and crushing. Their large, flat surfaces are ideal for breaking down kibble, hard treats, and other tough foods.

Molars help dogs thoroughly chew food before swallowing, which aids in digestion. These teeth are particularly important for dogs that primarily eat dry food or have a diet that includes harder treats.

What is Teething in Dogs?

Dogs go through two stages of dental development, otherwise known as teething. The first one starts during their life as puppies, and the second one starts when they start becoming adults. 

Puppy Teething

Puppies are born without teeth, but they can begin to develop their first set of teeth at 3 to 4 weeks of age. These first teeth, or baby teeth, are also known as deciduous teeth or milk teeth. A puppy will have a complete set of 28 baby teeth by the end of its teething. Here’s the entire timeline of puppy teething:

3 to 4 Weeks

When puppies are 3 to 4 weeks old, their first teeth start to emerge. The incisors, the small front teeth, are usually the first to emerge. Puppies develop six incisors on the top and six on the bottom, positioned right at the front of the mouth.

4 to 5 Weeks

After the incisors have emerged, the canine teeth will start to grow. These four teeth will grow beside the incisors, with two at the bottom and two at the top.

5 to 8 Weeks

As time passes by, the other set of a puppy’s teeth will start to grow. This new set will include the premolars. The premolars emerge behind the canines, with six on the top and six on the bottom. Premolars are great helpers when it comes to chewing, and they can tell you that your dog is ready for some solid food. At the end of 8 weeks, your puppy will have a complete set of teeth.

Adult Dog Teething

When a dog’s age reaches 3 to 4 months, they’ll begin to experience massive changes when it comes to their teeth. Their baby teeth will fall, allowing the adult dog teeth to grow. This stage is critical, as adult teeth are larger and stronger to support their developing lives. Here is the timeline:

3 to 4 Months

At around 3 to 4 months, the incisors are usually the first to fall out, typically around 3 to 4 months of age. You may notice small gaps in your puppy’s smile as these teeth fall out, and sometimes, you’ll even find tiny teeth left behind on the floor.

4 to 5 Months

The incisors are the first of the adult teeth to emerge, typically between four and five months of age. These small teeth are located in the very front of the mouth, with six on the top and six on the bottom. 

The canines are often the most noticeable teeth in a dog’s mouth, thanks to their prominent, pointed shape. These start emerging around five to six months and replace the baby canines, with two on the top and two on the bottom.

4 to 6 Months

Behind the canines come the premolars, which are located along the sides of the mouth. Premolars start emerging around four months and continue to replace baby premolars up until six months. There will be eight premolars on the top and eight on the bottom.

5 to 7 Months

Molars are the last teeth to arrive and are unique to the adult set; puppies don’t have molars in their baby teeth. Molars typically emerge around five to seven months, completing the set of 42 adult teeth. Dogs have four molars on the top and six on the bottom.

Common Dental Problems in Adult Dogs

Because dogs use their teeth a lot, they can experience many dental problems. If your dog has any of these dental problems, it’s super helpful to schedule a quick visit at our clinic. Here are some of the common dental problems in adult dogs:

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is easily one of the most common dental issues in dogs, affecting the gums and other supporting structures around the teeth. It usually starts with plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar and causes gum inflammation or gingivitis. 

If this is left untreated, periodontal disease will worsen, resulting in bone and tissue damage as well as potential tooth loss. Common symptoms of periodontal disease are swollen gums and loose teeth.

Tooth Fractures

Dogs frequently suffer from fractured teeth, especially if they chew on hard objects like bones, rocks, or antlers. A fractured tooth can expose the sensitive pulp inside, which can be very painful and may lead to infection or tooth loss if untreated. Noticeable signs of a tooth fracture include visible cracks or chips, sensitivity to touch, and a tendency to chew on one side of the mouth. 

Plaque and Tartar Buildup

Plaque and tartar are common enemies of your dog’s dental health. Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-filled layer that forms on the teeth. This hardens into tartar if not removed. Tartar buildup can be irritating to the gum and lead to decay, eventually causing periodontal disease. You may notice yellow or brown buildup on your dog’s teeth or experience bad breath. Brushing daily is the most effective way to prevent plaque buildup, while dental chews and professional cleanings can help address tartar that has already formed.

Tooth Root Abscesses

An abscessed tooth root occurs when bacteria enter a damaged or fractured tooth, leading to infection. This can be a very painful condition that causes swelling around the root of the tooth, along with bad breath and reluctance to eat or chew. Abscesses need prompt veterinary care to prevent the infection from spreading. To reduce the risk, avoid hard chews that can cause fractures, as fractures often lead to abscesses.

How to Keep Dog Teeth Healthy

Keeping your dog’s teeth healthy starts with a good routine and regular checkups.

Brush Regularly

Brushing is the best way to keep your dog’s mouth healthy. Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste our vets approve of, and aim to brush their teeth at least several times a week. Start slowly, and allow your dog to adjust to the brushing routine, focusing especially on the outer surfaces of their teeth.

Dental Checkups

Regular dental cleanings are crucial for monitoring your dog’s teeth and gums. We can address any dental problems that may be hard to spot at home. Most dogs benefit from an annual cleaning, though some may require more frequent check-ups if they’re prone to dental issues. Professional dental cleanings are always worth the visit.

Conclusion

Healthy teeth allow your dog to eat comfortably, enjoy their favorite treats, and stay active and happy. Their dental health affects their overall health and well-being. By working with our clinic about their dental health, you can help your dog maintain a healthy smile and strong teeth for years to come.