Crowns or “Caps” are used to replace missing tooth structure with a laboratory fabricated metal material. Certainly, most teeth in dogs and cats do not require crown restoration, but in some cases they are beneficial. Hunting and working dogs frequently damage their canine teeth (fangs). Working dogs, such as those used for police and protection work, can place forces over 1500 pounds per square inch on their teeth when biting forcefully. Loss of function in these teeth can lead to decreased work performance.
In some cases, dogs wear down the backs of their fangs chewing on cages or fences. Often the enamel is completely worn away, weakening these teeth dramatically. These defects are commonly referred to as “cage chewer lesions”. In this instance behavior modification is the ideal solution to prevention of continuous dental wear however this is not always possible and often too late to prevent damage. Restoration with a partial or full crown can decrease sensitivity and help prevent future fracture in these weakened teeth.
