Cage chewer syndrome is a problem that develops from cage or fence chewing; however, the underlying problem is frequently behavioral.  Getting help from a board certified behaviorist is always appropriate if available to the owner.  These patients can cause variable degrees of dental abrasion (enamel or enamel and dentin) and possibly tooth fracture. 

Preventing dental fractures is only possible if the dental wear is recognized early.  If abrasion is observed, finding the source of the problem is logical.  Allowing these animals to chew hard objects (e.g. "bully sticks", nylon bones, animal bones, cow hooves, rocks and fences) must be avoided and preventing cage chewing is essential to reduce the incidence of dental fractures.

Treatment of cage chewer syndrome

Dental radiographs are necessary to determine whether the worn teeth are vital (alive) or non-vital (dead).

The non-vital teeth must be treated endodontically (by root canal therapy).  Vital teeth may or may not require endodontic therapy.  Some operators prefer to treat these teeth prior to performing crown therapy.

Crowns can be full or provide partial coverage of these teeth.  Treatment planning for crowns are made case by case for individual patients.  Considerations are made with regard to providing the strongest possible tooth-crown combination.

This is a different patient with dental abrasion and no fractured teeth.  Metal 3/4 crowns were used to help protect this patient's teeth!