Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are among the most popular toy breeds, known for their playful personalities, luxurious coats, and small size. However, their tiny mouths can pose significant dental challenges for Yorkie teeth.
Without proper care, Yorkies are prone to plaque buildup, gum sensitivity, and early tooth loss. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for their dental health but also for their overall well-being.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common dental issues in Yorkies, how to prevent them, and the best care practices to ensure your pup maintains a healthy smile.
How Many Teeth Does a Yorkie Have?
Let’s start with the basics. Like all dogs, Yorkies have 42 teeth in their mouths. They have 20 on the top and 22 on the bottom. These teeth are divided into four different types: the incisors, the canines, the premolars, and the molars.
Why Yorkie Teeth Require Special Attention
Yorkies have a unique skull and jaw structure that makes them more susceptible to dental concerns compared to larger breeds. Their small mouths often result in overcrowded teeth, making it easier for plaque and tartar to accumulate.
Dental health is closely linked to overall health in dogs. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic health concerns, including heart, kidney, and liver issues. When bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream, they can affect major organs, leading to more significant complications. This is why preventative dental care is crucial for Yorkies.
5 Common Dental Issues in Yorkies
1. Tooth Crowding and Misalignment
Due to their compact skulls, Yorkies often experience tooth crowding, where their teeth are positioned too closely together. This makes it difficult to clean between them, increasing the risk of plaque accumulation and gum discomfort. Crowding can also lead to misalignment, which may cause discomfort while eating or chewing.
2. Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth when food particles mix with saliva. If not removed through regular brushing, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to gum irritation and further dental complications. Yorkies are particularly prone to rapid tartar buildup due to their small mouths and the positioning of their teeth.
3. Gum Sensitivity and Periodontal Disease
Gum sensitivity is common in small breeds, and Yorkies are no exception. When plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, it can cause redness, swelling, and even bleeding. Over time, this may lead to more severe concerns that can impact a Yorkie’s ability to eat and chew comfortably.
Left untreated, gingivitis will progress to periodontal disease, the most common dental problem affecting dogs regardless of breed. It’s a serious condition that progressively damages the structures supporting the teeth – your dog’s gums, bone, and ligaments – and leads to complications such as infection, tooth loss, and tooth root abscess. In severe cases, infection can spread, affecting the heart and other vital organs.
4. Early Tooth Loss
Yorkies have delicate teeth that are prone to falling out earlier than those of larger breeds. This is often due to a combination of poor dental hygiene and periodontal disease. When teeth fall out prematurely, it can affect your dog’s ability to chew properly, leading to digestive issues and difficulty eating.
5. Retained Baby Teeth
Yorkie puppies typically begin losing their baby teeth around three to four months of age and should have all their adult teeth in by about 6 months. However, some Yorkies retain their baby teeth well into adulthood, causing overcrowding and misalignment. If these teeth do not fall out naturally, a veterinarian may recommend extraction to prevent future complications such as periodontal disease.
Best Practices for Yorkie Dental Care
Proper dental care is essential for preventing these common Yorkie dental issues. A consistent oral hygiene routine can help maintain strong, healthy teeth throughout their lifetime.
Brush your Yorkie’s teeth daily. Daily brushing is the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for small dogs and a dog-friendly enzymatic toothpaste. Human toothpaste should never be used, as it contains ingredients that can be toxic to dogs. If your Yorkie won’t cooperate with daily brushing, try to clean your dog’s teeth at least three times per week.
Start by introducing brushing gradually, allowing your Yorkie to become comfortable with the process. Begin with short sessions and reward them with praise or a small treat afterward. Brushing at the same time each day can help establish a routine.
Encourage chewing with dental toys. Dental toys for dogs are designed to promote oral hygiene and can help reduce plaque and tartar naturally. Look for vet-approved products that are appropriately sized for small breeds. These toys are often designed with ridges to help massage the gums and clean the teeth as your Yorkie chews. Never allow your Yorkie to chew on bones or antlers. If a chew toy is too hard to indent with your thumb nail, it could lead to fractured teeth.
Schedule regular professional cleanings. Even with a consistent at-home dental routine, professional cleanings are necessary to maintain your Yorkie’s oral health. Veterinarians can remove tartar buildup in areas that are difficult to reach with brushing alone, such as under the gumline. Most vets recommend annual dental cleanings, but some Yorkies may require more frequent cleanings depending on their dental health.
Feed a dental-friendly diet. Diet plays a significant role in dental health. Prescription dental diets are designed to promote oral health, mechanically scraping off plaque as your dog chews. Avoid sticky or sugary treats that can contribute to plaque buildup.
Signs Your Yorkie May Need Dental Care
Regularly checking your Yorkie’s mouth can help you catch dental concerns early. Here are some warning signs that may indicate a dental issue:
- Persistent bad breath
- Discolored teeth or thick tartar buildup
- Difficulty chewing or loss of appetite
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a veterinary visit as soon as possible. Addressing dental concerns early can prevent more serious complications in the future.
How to Introduce a Dental Routine to Your Yorkie
Many dogs resist dental care at first. But with patience and consistency, your Yorkie can learn to accept brushing and other oral hygiene practices. Here are some steps to ease them into a routine:
- Start Early – If possible, begin brushing your Yorkie’s teeth as a puppy to get them accustomed to the process.
- Use Positive Reinforcement – Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime after each brushing session.
- Introduce Brushing Gradually – Let your Yorkie sniff and lick the toothpaste before attempting to brush. Start with short sessions, focusing on just a few teeth at a time. It may be helpful to get them used to a gauze-covered finger first.
- Be Gentle – Use slow, circular motions on the outer surfaces of the teeth when brushing to avoid causing discomfort.
- Stay Consistent – Brushing at the same time each day helps your Yorkie develop a routine and reduces resistance.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your Yorkie’s Teeth Healthy
- Avoid giving your Yorkie hard bones or chews that could break their teeth
- Check their mouth regularly for signs of plaque buildup or redness
- Limit sugary or carbohydrate-heavy treats that contribute to plaque formation
- Stay on top of regular veterinary appointments to catch potential problems early
- Discuss having any retained deciduous teeth removed at the time of spay or neuter
Final Thoughts
Yorkies are prone to dental issues due to their small size and compact mouths, but with proper care, their teeth can remain healthy throughout their lives. Establishing a regular dental routine that includes daily brushing, providing dental toys, scheduling professional cleanings, and maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent common dental concerns.
By being proactive about your Yorkie’s oral health, you can ensure they stay comfortable, happy, and free from dental discomfort. If you have any concerns about your Yorkie’s teeth, consult a veterinarian for personalized guidance.
