Yorkie Teeth: A Comprehensive Guide
How Many Teeth Does a Yorkie Have?
Yorkshire Terriers, often fondly called Yorkies, are known for their small size and big personalities. They are also known for their adorable, tiny teeth. But just how many pearly whites can you expect in a Yorkie’s mouth?
Just like humans, Yorkies experience two sets of teeth: puppy teeth (also known as deciduous teeth) and adult teeth (also known as permanent teeth). Puppy teeth typically start to appear around 3 weeks of age and are usually all present by 6 weeks old. There are a total of 28 puppy teeth in a Yorkie’s mouth, which includes:
- Incisors: 12 incisors (6 on the top and 6 on the bottom) used for nipping and tearing food
- Canines: 4 canines (2 on the top and 2 on the bottom) used for piercing and tearing
- Premolars: 12 premolars (6 on the top and 6 on the bottom) used for grinding and crushing
These puppy teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by adult teeth. The transition from puppy to adult teeth typically starts around 3-4 months of age and is usually complete by 6-7 months old.
As adult teeth come in, they will be replaced by 42 adult teeth, which are larger and stronger than the puppy teeth. The adult teeth will include:
- Incisors: 12 incisors (6 on the top and 6 on the bottom)
- Canines: 4 canines (2 on the top and 2 on the bottom)
- Premolars: 16 premolars (8 on the top and 8 on the bottom)
- Molars: 10 molars (4 on the top and 6 on the bottom) used for grinding and chewing
When Do Yorkie Teeth Start Coming In?
Yorkie puppies are born without teeth. The first set of teeth, known as puppy teeth or deciduous teeth, typically start to appear around 3 weeks of age. These tiny teeth are essential for the puppy to start chewing and weaning off their mother’s milk. The process of teeth erupting, also known as dentition, usually continues for about 3-4 weeks, with the full set of 28 puppy teeth typically present by 6 weeks old.
You’ll want to be aware of this period of tooth eruption as it is when a Yorkie puppy might start nibbling more frequently, especially on your hands and furniture. The teething process can be painful and cause your Yorkie to be more irritable than usual. Providing them with chew toys can help relieve some of this discomfort.
How Long Do Puppy Teeth Stay In?
While puppy teeth are adorable, they are not meant to last forever. They serve their purpose during the early stages of a Yorkie’s life, helping them to learn how to eat solid foods and to gnaw on things to relieve teething pain. However, they must eventually be replaced by adult teeth, which are larger and stronger, allowing them to chew tougher foods and properly tear and grind.
The process of replacing puppy teeth with adult teeth, known as shedding, typically begins around 3-4 months of age. Adult teeth start pushing their way through the gums, causing the puppy teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. This shedding process usually takes several months and is typically complete by 6-7 months old. You may find your Yorkie dropping teeth around the house, so be on the lookout for them.
Why Do Yorkies Lose Their Teeth?
As the Yorkie puppy grows, its jaw bone also grows and gets larger. The puppy teeth, which are smaller and weaker, cannot keep up with this growth. The larger adult teeth then start to develop underneath the puppy teeth, eventually pushing them out. This natural process is essential for the Yorkie to develop a healthy set of adult teeth. This shedding of teeth is similar to how a snake sheds its skin. It is a necessary process for growth and development.
If you notice that your Yorkie’s puppy teeth are not falling out when they should, or if you see any signs of inflammation or infection around the gums, it is important to consult with a veterinarian.
What Happens if a Yorkie Doesn’t Lose Its Teeth?
It’s important to make sure your Yorkie’s puppy teeth are falling out on schedule. If you see that your Yorkie still has puppy teeth even after the age of 7 months, you need to see your veterinarian. This condition, known as retained deciduous teeth, can cause several problems for your Yorkie.
Retained deciduous teeth can cause misaligned teeth and crowded mouths, which can lead to difficulty chewing and dental infections. It can also make it difficult for the adult teeth to erupt properly, causing them to grow in crooked or sideways. In some cases, retained deciduous teeth can even lead to the adult teeth being pushed out of their normal positions altogether.
If your veterinarian determines that your Yorkie has retained deciduous teeth, they may recommend having them removed. This is a relatively simple procedure that can prevent future dental problems.
Can Yorkies Get Dental Problems?
Just like humans, Yorkies can develop dental problems. It is important to have your Yorkie’s teeth cleaned and examined regularly by a veterinarian. These problems can range from simple plaque and tartar buildup to more serious conditions like gum disease and tooth decay.
Some common dental problems in Yorkies include:
- Plaque and tartar buildup: Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth, which can harden into tartar. Both plaque and tartar can irritate the gums and lead to gum disease.
- Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums. It can cause inflammation, redness, and bleeding. In severe cases, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
- Tooth decay: Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is caused by bacteria that eat away at the enamel on teeth. It can lead to pain, sensitivity, and tooth loss.
Why Is Dental Care Important for Yorkies?
Proper dental care is critical for your Yorkie’s overall health. It is important to brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly, using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. You can also give them dental chews and toys to help keep their teeth clean.
You can help prevent these problems by giving your Yorkie proper dental care. You can brush their teeth, give them dental chews, and take them to the vet for regular dental cleanings.
Here are some tips for maintaining good dental health for your Yorkie:
- Brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly: Start brushing your Yorkie’s teeth as early as possible, ideally when they are puppies. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs.
- Give your Yorkie dental chews: Dental chews can help to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Take your Yorkie to the vet for regular dental cleanings: Your veterinarian can professionally clean your Yorkie’s teeth and check for any signs of dental problems.
How Can I Tell if My Yorkie Has Dental Problems?
It is important to monitor your Yorkie for any signs of dental problems. Some common signs of dental problems include:
- Bad breath: This is a common sign of plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease.
- Red or swollen gums: This is another sign of gum disease.
- Bleeding gums: Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, or even a more serious condition.
- Tooth loss: Tooth loss can be a sign of gum disease, tooth decay, or a dental injury.
- Difficulty chewing: This is a sign that your Yorkie’s teeth are not functioning properly.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign of a dental problem, or other health issues.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your Yorkie to the veterinarian for an examination.
What Can I Do if My Yorkie Has Dental Problems?
If your Yorkie has dental problems, your veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of the problem. Treatments may include:
- Professional dental cleaning: Your veterinarian can professionally clean your Yorkie’s teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Tooth extraction: If a tooth is damaged or infected, your veterinarian may recommend removing it.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat gum disease or infection.
- Pain medication: Pain medication can help relieve pain and discomfort.
The best way to prevent dental problems in Yorkies is to maintain good dental hygiene. Brush their teeth regularly, give them dental chews, and take them to the veterinarian for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Yorkie Teeth: Summary Table
Here is a summary table of Yorkie teeth:
| Tooth Type | Puppy Teeth | Adult Teeth |
|---|---|---|
| Incisors | 12 | 12 |
| Canines | 4 | 4 |
| Premolars | 12 | 16 |
| Molars | 0 | 10 |
| Total | 28 | 42 |
Yorkie Teeth FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Yorkie teeth:
What can I do to prevent dental problems in my Yorkie?
The best way to prevent dental problems in Yorkies is to maintain good dental hygiene. Brush their teeth regularly, give them dental chews, and take them to the veterinarian for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
What should I do if my Yorkie is losing teeth too early?
If you notice that your Yorkie is losing teeth too early, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an examination. There may be an underlying medical condition causing this, or it could be a sign of dental disease.
What are the signs of a dental emergency in a Yorkie?
Signs of a dental emergency in a Yorkie include:
- Severe pain in the mouth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling around the mouth
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- Loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your Yorkie to the veterinarian immediately.
How often should I brush my Yorkie’s teeth?
It is ideal to brush your Yorkie’s teeth at least once a day, but even brushing a few times a week is better than not brushing at all.
What kind of toothpaste should I use for my Yorkie?
You should use a toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and other ingredients that can be toxic to dogs.
What are some good dental chews for Yorkies?
There are many good dental chews available on the market. When choosing dental chews for your Yorkie, look for chews that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval.
How can I tell if my Yorkie has a dental infection?
Signs of a dental infection in a Yorkie include:
- Bad breath
- Swelling around the mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Pain when eating
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your Yorkie to the veterinarian immediately.
