Photo: Luna’s Xray (© Coquet Vets, 2025)
We recently treated a 13-week-old small cross breed named Luna, who came to us with Lingually Displaced Deciduous Canines (LDDC). LDDC is a genetic condition where a dog’s lower deciduous canines (baby teeth) are growing into the hard palate (top of the mouth). The teeth are growing too far towards the tongue (lingually). LDDC occurs in dogs due to a combination of genetic factors and the retention of baby teeth.
Luna presented as a classic case of LDDC, as the small cross breed could not close their mouth without these teeth contacting the soft tissues of the upper hard palate. This was causing some discomfort, and as teeth growing into the hard palate can be painful for a puppy, it was agreed with the owner to remove Luna’s deciduous teeth.
In addition to relieving pain and discomfort for Luna, if the lingually displaced deciduous teeth are removed at a young age, it can improve the chances of the permanent (adult) canine teeth erupting in the correct way. Removing these problematic teeth can also stop them from affecting the normal growth of the jaws.
The dental procedure to remove Luna’s deciduous teeth went well, and we will re-examine Luna in a few weeks to check the success of the dental procedure and how it is healing.
It is important not to delay treatment of deciduous canines, as the window of opportunity is only a matter of weeks before the permanent canines erupt at 22 to 26 weeks of age. If the adult teeth erupt lingually, their contact, and therefore damage to the soft tissues, can be far more significant. Treatment of lingually displaced adult canines involves endodontic work, and this is generally done by a dental specialist (with specialist costs!).
We offer free puppy checks for all our clients, which includes one of our vets checking for LDDC when they examine your puppy, as well as giving a full health exam and advice. Over the month of September, you can also get up to 15% off the full cost of a dental procedure at Coquet Vets. Terms and conditions apply. Find out more here.
If this article has raised any concerns about your dog’s teeth, or you would like to get more advice on dental treatments for your pet, please call us at Coquet Vets on 01665 252250.
Promotion: Dental Month - Get up to 15% off over September
Over the month of September, you can get up to 15% off the full cost of a dental procedure at Coquet Vets, (Terms and conditions apply.)
