Brown bear Tundra gets world’s largest dental crown after tooth injury

In the United States, specifically at the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth, Minnesota, a remarkable dental procedure was performed on Tundra, an Alaskan brown bear, who had suffered a fractured canine tooth. The procedure took place recently, with the decision being made after Tundra reinjured the area that had previously undergone a root canal. The veterinary team, led by Dr. Grace Brown, undertook this significant dental intervention, which involved fitting the bear with a new titanium alloy crown tailored to protect the tooth for the remainder of Tundra's life. The creation of this crown was facilitated through a collaboration of veterinary specialists and Crown Creators, who utilized a wax cast of Tundra's tooth to construct this world-class dental fixture. The team, comprising experts from Minnesota Veterinary Dental Specialists as well as Creature Crowns, dedicated their efforts voluntarily to ensure Tundra's recovery and provided care to him amidst his dental challenges. Upon successful completion of the procedure, zoo staff expressed their pride in the teamwork and innovation that culminated in this achievement. Dr. Grace Brown remarked on the uniqueness of the procedure, indicating that this dental crown was indeed the largest ever created for a bear. After the hour-long operation performed under sedation, Tundra emerged with a new gleaming smile. The zoo staff noted his return to normal behavior following recovery, reassuring visitors and animal enthusiasts that safety protocols were adhered to during the procedure, even including a member of the zoo's armed response team being present to ensure the bear's and staff’s safety. Tundra, now six years old, has been part of the Duluth zoo community since he was just three months old, following the unfortunate loss of his mother. As he stands approximately eight feet tall on his hind legs and weighs around 800 pounds, significant precautions were necessary during his dental surgery. The zoo hopes to attract visitors to witness Tundra’s historic new smile, as well as provide an opportunity to emphasize the value of animal dental health.