Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the restoration of damaged teeth due to trauma, wear, or disease. Dentin bonding and fillings are also a part of this area of study. In this section, we would like to highlight the use of dental crowns.

The crown of the tooth is essentially the anatomical area of teeth that is covered with enamel; this is the part of the tooth that you see when you look in your pet’s mouth. When the crown of the tooth is damaged, an artificial crown can be made to replace the missing tooth surface and to protect the remaining tooth structure. Metal dental crowns are used most frequently in our pets to restore fractured or worn teeth (e.g., severe dental wear due to cage biting) or after endodontic treatment. When a metal crown is made, it is a 2-step procedure. At the first visit, the tooth is prepared for a crown, and an impression of the tooth is made and sent to a professional lab to be made. The custom-made metal crown is then sent to the veterinarian typically about 3-4 weeks later. Often the placement of the crown can be performed under sedation.