What is tooth capping for dogs?
Tooth capping, also known as tooth crowning, is a veterinary dental procedure where an artificial cap or crown is placed on top of a dog’s damaged tooth (1). The crown covers and protects the tooth, restoring structure and function.
There are several reasons why tooth capping may be recommended for dogs:
- Tooth fractures – Caps can protect cracked or broken teeth from further damage
- Severe tooth wear – Worn down teeth may need capping to prevent sensitivity
- Root canal therapy – Caps help protect and stabilize teeth after root canal treatment
- Tooth discoloration – Caps can cover discolored or aesthetically unappealing teeth
- Periodontal disease – Caps may be used along with treatments for advanced gum disease
The cap acts as a protective cover for the tooth crown, while allowing the dog to still use the tooth for chewing and biting. However, it does not strengthen the tooth itself (2).
When is tooth capping recommended for dogs?
Tooth capping is often recommended for dogs when there is damage or decay to a tooth that may otherwise need extraction, but the tooth root and surrounding bone are still healthy. Some common situations where vets may recommend capping a dog’s tooth rather than extracting it include:
Fractured teeth – If a tooth is cracked or fractured but the pulp is not exposed, capping can help save the tooth rather than extracting it. Capping seals and protects the tooth from further damage.
Severe enamel wear – Excessive chewing or grinding over time can wear down the enamel layer of teeth. Capping protects and restores the tooth’s structure and function.
Tooth resorption lesions – These areas of damaged tooth structure due to abnormal resorption can often be treated with capping as an alternative to extraction.
Compared to tooth extraction, some benefits of capping a dog’s damaged tooth include:
– Preserving the root structure and surrounding bone. Extraction can damage bone over time.
– Maintaining chewing function. With capping, biting and chewing ability is not compromised.
– Retaining natural teeth. Capped teeth are more functional than bridges.
– Avoiding tooth migration. Extracted teeth can lead to shifting of surrounding teeth.
– Lower risk and easier procedure. Capping is generally less invasive than extraction surgery.
However, tooth capping is not appropriate in cases where the tooth root or bone are diseased. Extractions are the best option when periodontal disease is present (source).
The tooth capping procedure
The tooth capping procedure for dogs typically follows these steps:
1. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is done to ensure the dog is healthy enough for anesthesia.
2. General anesthesia is administered intravenously. This allows the veterinary dentist to perform the procedure with the dog completely asleep and pain-free.
3. The damaged tooth is cleaned and prepared by filing down the surface. Any diseased pulp is removed.
4. Impressions are taken of the prepared tooth using dental impression material.
5. Based on the impressions, a custom-made cap is fabricated, usually out of gold, porcelain, or zirconia.
6. At a follow-up appointment 1-2 weeks later, the custom cap is tried on the tooth and adjusted as needed to ensure a good fit.
7. The tooth is thoroughly cleaned again, and the cap is permanently cemented into place using dental cement.
The entire tooth capping procedure typically takes place over two appointments several weeks apart. It is performed by a veterinary dentist or oral surgeon. The dog remains under general anesthesia throughout the capping procedure to ensure comfort.
Recovery after tooth capping
The recovery time after a tooth capping procedure is usually brief. Most dogs can go home the same day as their procedure. Some swelling and mild pain may persist for a couple of days but this typically subsides quickly.
Veterinarians recommend restricting activity for around 7-10 days after the tooth capping procedure to allow time for healing. Strenuous activity and hard chewing should be avoided during the initial recovery period to prevent dislodging the cap. It’s also important to avoid allowing dogs to chew toys or treats using the capped tooth during the recovery period.
At-home care instructions normally include administering any prescribed pain medication as directed by your vet. You may need to feed softer foods temporarily after the procedure. Providing ample fresh water is also recommended to stay hydrated while healing. Limiting chewing hard items is crucial to allow proper healing and bonding of the tooth cap. Following all of your veterinarian’s at-home care instructions closely will help ensure your dog has the smoothest possible recovery after their tooth capping procedure.
According to VCA Hospitals, under normal conditions, the tooth cap should last for your dog’s lifetime once fully healed from the initial procedure. However, it’s important to monitor the tooth and watch for signs of cap damage or loosening which could require a follow-up veterinary visit.
Risks and complications
There are some potential risks and complications that can occur with dog tooth capping. According to Apex Veterinary Specialists (https://apexvetss.com/crown-placement/), complications can include:
- Dislodgement of the crown
- Tooth fracture underneath the crown
- Gingivitis around the crowned tooth
- Plaque retention around the crown
- Interference with adjacent teeth from the crown
These complications may occur if the dog continues to chew on hard objects or get into fights after the tooth is crowned. The crown can become dislodged or damaged from trauma, leading to the underlying tooth becoming exposed or fractured. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to gingivitis, plaque buildup, and tooth decay under the crown.
You should call your veterinarian immediately if you notice the crown becoming loose, damaged, or missing. Signs your dog may be having complications include reluctance to eat, pawing at the mouth, swelling around the crowned tooth, discharge, and crying or whimpering when chewing. These signs indicate the tooth underneath may be damaged or infected, requiring veterinary attention. Leaving underlying tooth fractures or infection untreated can lead to more severe complications.
Cost of dog tooth capping
The cost of dog tooth capping can range quite a bit depending on various factors. According to sources, the average cost of dog tooth extraction ranges from $500 to $2,500 per tooth. However, the cost depends on several key factors:
According to https://betterpet.com/dog-tooth-extraction-cost/, the type of extraction affects cost. A simple extraction of an easy to access tooth may only cost $200. However, extracting a tooth with multiple roots or that is embedded in bone can cost $600 to $1,200.
According to https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/pet-dental-cost-budget/, location is another factor. Extractions in larger cities with higher costs of living tend to be more expensive. Procedures can cost 20-30% more in major metro areas.
Your dog’s size and age also impacts cost. Larger dogs and senior dogs often require more anesthesia and treatment resulting in higher fees.
Finally, the dental office itself affects price. Specialty and emergency dental clinics often charge more compared to general veterinarian offices.
Home care after tooth capping
After your dog has had a tooth capped, there are some home care steps you’ll need to take to support healing and keep the tooth healthy. Proper home care is critical for the long-term success of a tooth cap.
One of the most important aspects of home care is keeping the tooth clean. Your veterinarian will likely recommend brushing the capped tooth daily with a soft toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Take care to gently brush around the tooth cap without dislodging it. Avoid using human toothpaste, which can upset your dog’s stomach.
You may need to feed your dog soft food for 7-10 days after the procedure to allow for gum healing. Once healed, your vet may recommend sticking with dental diet dog food that is formulated to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Hard treats or toys could damage the tooth cap, so avoid giving your dog any hard chews.
Be sure to follow up with your veterinarian as recommended to check the status of the tooth cap and your dog’s oral health. Alert your vet if you notice any problems with the cap like chipping, loosening, or irritation in your dog’s mouth.
With proper home care and follow-up appointments, a tooth cap can restore your dog’s tooth function for years. Brushing, a dental diet, and avoiding hard chews will give your dog the best chance of cap success.
Alternatives to tooth capping
There are two main alternatives to capping a dog’s damaged tooth: tooth extraction and root canal treatment. Extraction involves completely removing the affected tooth. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, extraction may be recommended if the tooth is severely fractured and the pulp is exposed. Extraction removes the source of pain and infection. However, it can lead to problems like jaw misalignment if multiple extractions are required over time.
Root canal treatment, also called vital pulp therapy or endodontic treatment, is another alternative. This procedure removes the inner dental pulp of the tooth while leaving the remaining tooth structure intact. According to WellPets, vital pulp therapy helps preserve the tooth so it can mature and maintain proper chewing and jaw alignment. However, root canals have limitations depending on the tooth damage, and require extensive equipment and expertise.
The choice between tooth extraction or root canal depends on factors like the location and extent of tooth damage, the dog’s age and overall health, cost of treatment, and veterinary capabilities. In some cases, extraction is the safer and more affordable choice. Consulting a veterinary dentist can help determine the best option.
When to Cap vs. Extract a Tooth
There are several factors to consider when deciding between capping or extracting a damaged tooth in dogs:
According to the Riney Canine Health Center at Cornell University, most vets recommend extracting a fractured tooth rather than capping it, as extraction is often the least expensive and best option for pets. However, capping may be recommended if the tooth’s root is healthy and most of the crown is intact.
Capping is more likely to be recommended for incisors or canine teeth, which play an important functional role. Molar teeth are more prone to complications and often do better with extraction.
The cost of capping vs. extraction is another consideration. According to KC Pet Dental, extraction is generally the more affordable option. Capping requires a root canal procedure first, followed by custom fabrication of the cap. This may not be financially feasible for many pet owners.
Overall, veterinarians will make tooth capping recommendations based on the location and severity of the fracture, the viability of the tooth’s root, potential complications, and the pet owner’s financial constraints.
Prognosis after tooth capping
The prognosis for tooth capping in dogs is generally good, with high success rates reported in studies. One study of full metal crowns on canine teeth in working dogs found a success rate of over 90% after 5 years [1]. Another retrospective study of titanium alloy crowns in dogs also reported a success rate of nearly 90% [2].
With proper home care and regular dental checkups, tooth capping can restore function and health to a damaged tooth long-term. However, complications like infection, pulp exposure, or crown failure can still occur in a small percentage of cases. Your veterinarian will monitor the capped tooth closely over time to ensure the tooth remains vital and the cap intact.
Overall, tooth capping has a good prognosis for restoring use of a damaged tooth and preventing extraction. Still, ongoing dental care and monitoring are important for the long-term success of a tooth capping procedure.
