Enamel dysplasia in dogs is when the enamel becomes soft and sometimes falls off the teeth. It is also known as enamel hypoplasia. According to Merck Veterinary Home Manual, enamel dysplasia is not limited to dogs, but can happen to many mammals.
-
Cause
-
The primary cause of enamel dysplasia is distemper, which affects tooth growth in puppies. "Veterinary Dentistry for the General Practitioner" states that an injury to the jaw or chewing on extremely hard objects may also cause the enamel to chip off.
Time Frame
-
"Veterinary Dentistry for the General Practitioner" states that puppies are most prone to enamel dysplasia from the 42nd day in the womb to 15 days after birth. This is when the milk and adult teeth are developing.
Significance
-
Without a solid coating of enamel, the inside of the tooth is exposed to bacteria and infection. Enamel dysplasia can lead to great pain, loss of appetite and eventual tooth decay.
Prevention
-
Protecting all pregnant dogs from distemper can help reduce the chances that the puppies will develop enamel dysplasia.
Treatment
-
"Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" states that rotting teeth will need to be pulled, but covering a tooth with ceramics--that is, creating a crown for the dog--can help save mildly affected teeth.
-