Crowns or “Caps” are used to replace missing tooth structure with a laboratory fabricated metal or ceramic material. Certainly, most teeth in dogs and cats do not require crown restoration, but in some cases they are beneficial. Working dogs such as police, protection, or hunting dogs frequently damage their canine teeth (fangs). These dogs can placed 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. Restoration with a partial crown can decrease sensitivity and help prevent future fracture in these weakened teeth.
      The major chewing teeth in dogs are towards the back of the mouth, and are termed the “Carnassial Teeth”. Because of their importance, these teeth are potential candidates for crown restoration.

Wear on the back of the right upper-- canine tooth, secondary to cage chewing.	Restored strength with partial crown.
Worn left upper canine.	Crown in place.

Fractured left upper chewing tooth------ with fracture fragment lifted up.	Stone models of the patient’s occlusion are prepared and sent to the dental lab.
Detailed area-specific impressions ---- allow the lab to produce an accurate ----cast metal crown.	The crown is then cemented in place.