Puppies should lose a puppy tooth before the corresponding adult tooth emerges. If a puppy tooth is still in place when an adult tooth begins to show, contact your veterinarian. He or she may advise extracting the tooth.

Studies show that by age three, 80 percent of dogs exhibit signs of gum disease. Symptoms include yellow and brown build-up of tartar along the gumline, red inflamed gums and persistent bad breath.

Small dog breeds are more likely to develop periodontal disease than large dogs.According to veterinary dental experts, this is because the teeth of small dogs are often too large for their mouths.

The canine teeth of working dogs are essential for the dogs to carry prey and other objects. If these teeth are broken, a canine dentist can prepare a crown.

A broken tooth is a common problem, especially among outdoor dogs. Aggressive chewing on hard objects, such as rocks, is a primary cause.