Why a Dental Crown is Essential After a Root Canal: The Standard of Care
A root canal is a crucial procedure that saves a tooth from extraction by removing infected or damaged pulp. However, the treatment doesn’t stop there. To ensure long-term success, a dental crown is almost always recommended as the standard of care following a root canal. Here is why.
1. Strengthening a Weakened Tooth
During a root canal, the inner pulp of the tooth is removed, leaving it hollowed out. This can make the tooth brittle and prone to fractures, especially in molars and premolars, which bear the most chewing force. A dental crown reinforces the tooth structure, preventing cracks or breaks that could lead to extraction.
2. Preventing Reinfection
A well-sealed crown acts as a protective barrier, shielding the tooth from bacteria that could cause reinfection. Even with a perfectly executed root canal, exposed tooth structure is vulnerable to decay if not covered with a restoration.
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3. Restoring Function and Aesthetics
A tooth that has undergone a root canal often discolors over time. Additionally, without a crown, chewing forces can cause wear and damage to the remaining tooth structure. A custom-fitted dental crown restores the natural appearance, shape, and strength of the tooth, ensuring normal function and a seamless smile.
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4. Long-Term Success and Cost-Effectiveness
Skipping a crown can lead to tooth fractures, reinfection, or eventual tooth loss requiring more extensive and costly treatments like extractions and implants. A crown provides long-term durability, helping patients maintain their natural teeth for decades.
The Standard of Care
In modern dentistry, a post-root canal crown is not just a recommendation, it is the standard of care for posterior teeth and many anterior cases. It ensures structural integrity, longevity, and optimal oral health outcomes.
If you have had a root canal, don’t delay in protecting your investment. A dental crown!
Contact us to schedule a visit with our doctor Stefka Petrova DDS to evaluate the need for a dental crown!