Throughout their lives, the teeth of dogs and cats can undergo damage, and restorative dentistry offers a means to repair and preserve their dental health. While humans commonly associate this with the use of fillings to address cavities, dogs (though not cats) rarely require such interventions for cavity-related issues. Instead, restorative dentistry in veterinary patients often involves procedures such as crowns, veneers, and inlays, which are also common in human dentistry but are not as frequently performed in animals.
Common Reasons for Restorative Dentistry in Animals
Repair of Enamel Hypoplasia Deficits: Enamel hypoplasia, characterized by a lack or thinning of the protective enamel layer, can be addressed through restorative dentistry.
Repair of Dental Structure After Root Canal Procedures: Following a root canal procedure, restorative dentistry is often necessary to repair and reinforce the dental structure.
Utilization of Human Dentistry Materials
Similar to human dentistry, veterinary dentists utilize the same materials to achieve optimal outcomes for pets. The white fillings commonly used in human dentistry are also employed in veterinary restorative procedures. The expectation is that these treatments will have lasting effects in pets, though dogs, in particular, may subject their teeth to more wear and tear.
Procedure and Outcome
Preparation of Damaged Areas: Areas of damaged teeth are carefully prepared for restoration.
Placement of Restorations: Utilizing similar techniques as in human dentistry, restorations are then placed on the prepared areas. Once completed, the tooth should appear normal, with the damaged area no longer obvious.
Crown Placement in Animals
Crown placement is a less common occurrence in veterinary dentistry. While inquiries about crowns are received frequently, the procedure is not always well-suited for animal patients. The process involves a series of intricate steps, including crown preparation, which permanently alters the tooth. This alteration is necessary for the proper fit of the new crown. Impressions are then taken, and a mold is created, from which the new crown is made. Animal crowns are often alloy crowns rather than porcelain fused to metal or zirconia crowns, as they need to withstand the unique challenges posed by the shape and behavior of animal teeth.
Restorative dentistry in dogs and cats aims to ensure optimal oral health, with procedures tailored to the specific needs and behaviors of our beloved animal companions.