19 Jul The Importance of Dental Crowns for Dogs
If your dog needs a root canal to treat an infected tooth, it’s always a good idea to get a crown as well.
Root canal therapy involves removing the damaged or infected pulp within the tooth, which is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. This process saves the tooth from extraction and eliminates the possibility of infection. However, it also leaves the tooth more brittle and vulnerable to damage.
Placing a crown on a dog’s tooth after a root canal is necessary for several critical reasons. It will protect the tooth from further damage, eliminate the possibility of re-infection, and give your dog a better quality of life. Here’s why dental crowns for dogs are so important.
Three Reasons Why Placing a Crown After a Root Canal Is So Important
1. Protection Against Fracture
One of the most significant risks following a root canal procedure is the increased brittleness of the tooth. After the pulp is removed, the tooth loses its internal nourishment and hydration, which weakens its structure. Without the natural cushioning effect provided by the pulp, the tooth is more susceptible to fractures and breaks, especially in dogs who chew on hard objects. A crown acts as a protective shield, enveloping the tooth and absorbing the forces of biting and chewing, thereby preventing it from fracturing.
2. Restoration of Function
Dogs rely heavily on their teeth for various activities, including eating, playing, and defending themselves. The canine teeth, in particular, play a crucial role in grasping and tearing food. After a root canal, the tooth might not be as strong as it once was. Placing a crown restores the tooth’s full functionality, enabling the dog to chew and bite without discomfort or risk of further damage. This is particularly important for large, strategic teeth like canines and carnassials, which are essential for a dog’s normal daily activities.
3. Protection Against Re-Infection
A properly fitted crown will seal the tooth and protect it from bacterial invasion. Even after a root canal, there is a risk of bacteria entering the treated area if the tooth is not adequately protected. A crown provides a robust barrier that prevents bacteria from infiltrating the root canal space, reducing the risk of re-infection and ensuring the long-term success of the root canal therapy.
4. Maintenance of Structural Integrity
Over time, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can wear down or become compromised. This can lead to further dental issues, including additional decay or the eventual need for extraction. A crown helps maintain the structural integrity of the tooth, ensuring that it remains functional and intact for as long as possible. This is especially critical in maintaining the overall dental health of the dog, preventing cascading dental problems that can arise from a weakened tooth.
5. Enhanced Durability and Longevity
Crowns are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the tremendous force exerted by a dog’s bite, such as metal alloys or porcelain. This durability protects the tooth over the long term, extending its lifespan and the effectiveness of the root canal therapy. With a crown, fewer dental procedures will be needed in the future. This reduces both the physical burden on the pet and the financial burden on its owner.
Conclusion
In summary, placing a crown on a dog’s tooth after a root canal is crucial for several reasons. It protects the tooth from fractures, restores its full function, prevents re-infection, maintains structural integrity, and ensures long-term durability.
Without a crown, the treated tooth remains vulnerable to damage and may not provide the lasting benefits that a well-performed root canal can offer. This comprehensive protection not only extends the tooth’s longevity, but also contributes significantly to the overall wellbeing and quality of life of the dog.
Investing in a crown after a root canal will give your dog healthy, functional teeth that are capable of enduring the rigors of daily use. This proactive step in dental care underscores the importance of comprehensive treatment plans in veterinary dentistry, because they provide the best possible outcomes for pets.
This is a crown on a maxillary 4th premolar tooth that received root canal therapy.
Here is a crown placed on a mandibular canine tooth after root canal therapy.
This is a crown placed on a mandibular canine tooth after root canal therapy.
Dental Crowns for Dogs in Nashville
For broken teeth and root canal procedures, a dental crown is the best type of restoration. Dr. Greenfield and Dr. Briggs can repair damaged teeth and restore them back to their normal appearance and function. If your pet needs restorative dental care, ask your veterinarian to fill out our referral form today.
Photo by Crystal Tubens on Unsplash