How to read a canine dental chart?
Marcella Ullrich
2025-08-06 03:04:07
Count answers
: 17
If you look at the canine dental chart again, you will see the incisors, the small teeth found at the front of a dog’s mouth.
They are used for scraping, as their shape makes them ideal for trying to scrape meat from bones.
The incisors, canines, premolars, and molars are all represented on the chart, which is arranged in a pattern optimised for their omnivorous diet.
Adult dogs typically have 42 teeth arranged in this pattern.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Incisors (12 total): The small teeth at the front, used for nibbling and grooming.
Canines (4 total): Those long, sharp “fangs” beside the incisors, perfect for gripping and tearing meat.
Premolars (16 total): Located behind the canines, these teeth slice and shear food into smaller pieces.
Molars (10 total): The larger teeth at the back, designed to crush and grind tougher food.
Understanding dental anatomy helps you:
Recognise early signs of dental problems
Know where tartar and plaque tend to accumulate (usually on molars and premolars)
Support effective tooth brushing by focusing on hard-to-reach areas
Communicate clearly with your vet about any dental concerns