Is a Dental Crown Required After a Root Canal?

Dental crowns are used by dentists for different reasons. They can be used to replace broken teeth, attach bridges and cover badly shaped or discolored teeth. When it comes to root canals, dentists typically use dental crowns to protect weak teeth from getting infected or fractured.

Root canals and dental crowns: All you need to know

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure used to repair and save a damaged tooth from decay. The procedure requires the dentist to remove the damaged area of the tooth, clean it and disinfect it. The salvaged part of the tooth is then filled and sealed.

Since the dentist has to drill through the tooth to remove the decayed enamel, the tooth is weakened, especially if the cavity is large. Even when the cavity is filled, the tooth can no longer function properly and loses its strength over time, making it more likely to get fractured.

Why do dentists use dental crowns after a root canal?

In many cases, dentists use dental crowns to protect a damaged tooth after a root canal because the crown provides extra protection for a damaged tooth after it has been filled and sealed. The dental crown also protects a damaged tooth from getting fractured when it loses its strength.

An advantage of having a dental crown protecting the damaged tooth is that it looks like a natural tooth. So, instead of having a hole in your mouth where the root canal was done, it will look like you still have all your teeth intact, allowing you to smile without being self-conscious.

Is a dental crown required after a root canal?

The simple answer to the question is no. Dental crowns are required if the damage is to your premolars and molars, because they are used for chewing and experience a great deal of pressure when you are eating. If the damage is to your incisor or canine teeth, dental crowns may not be required because the teeth at the front of the mouth experience less physical strain than the teeth at the back of your mouth.

In some cases, dental crowns may be required for your incisors or canines if the damage is extensive. In that scenario, your dentist may use dental crowns to strengthen the damaged teeth.

If your dentist determines that your premolars and molars are at low risk of getting fractured, they will recommend using only fillings to protect the damaged tooth. Fillings made with silver or composite resin can provide a strong seal for your tooth if there is a large amount of the tooth left after the root canal.

Conclusion

Your dentist will recommend using dental crowns to protect a damaged tooth if they feel it is necessary, especially if they had to remove most of the damaged tooth during a root canal. Despite the tooth being protected by the dental crown, it is important that you maintain good oral hygiene because the tooth will still be vulnerable to decay.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mytotaldentistry.com or call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.