Maitohampaisuus

Maitohampaisuus refers to the condition of having milk teeth, also known as deciduous or baby teeth, remaining in the mouth alongside permanent teeth. This phenomenon is most commonly observed in dogs and cats, though it can occur in other species as well. Milk teeth are the first set of teeth that a young animal develops. Typically, these teeth are shed naturally as permanent teeth erupt, pushing the milk teeth out.

When milk teeth fail to shed and are retained, they are called persistent deciduous teeth. This retention can lead to a variety of dental problems. The presence of both sets of teeth in close proximity can crowd the mouth, potentially causing misalignment of the permanent teeth. This crowding can make it difficult to clean the teeth effectively, increasing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Furthermore, the retained milk teeth can irritate the gums and the erupting permanent teeth, causing pain and discomfort.

The most common milk teeth to be retained are the canines and incisors. Treatment for maitohampaisuus typically involves the surgical extraction of the retained deciduous teeth. This procedure is usually performed by a veterinarian, often under general anesthesia. Early detection and intervention are important to prevent long-term dental complications and ensure the proper development and health of the permanent dentition.