Retained Deciduous Tooth Root Remnants in Dogs: A Ten-Year Retrospective Study

Abstract

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the incidence and potential consequences of retained deciduous tooth root remnants in canine patients who were presented at a referral clinic between 2013 and 2023. Among the 5432 medical records reviewed, 237 retained root remnants of deciduous teeth were identified radiographically in 143 patients. The identified root remnants were most commonly associated with the left (604) (39.2%) and right (504) (33.7%) deciduous maxillary canine teeth. The areas surrounding the retained root remnants were evaluated for radiographic changes. Direct problems associated with deciduous root remnants were observed in 117 dogs (81.8%). The most common finding was periapical radiolucency in 63 dogs (44.1%), and root resorption and ankylosis in 54 dogs (37.8%). Additional abnormalities included dental malocclusion, which affected the corresponding permanent dentition. Yorkshire Terriers were overrepresented, comprising 41.2% of the affected patients. This study emphasizes that retained deciduous root remnants do not undergo resorption and may develop clinical complications. Additionally, the importance of routine full-mouth radiography in dogs has been highlighted for the identification of such abnormalities.