Overcoming the fear and discomfort of a root canal is a challenging task. Just when you think the most difficult part is over, your dentist might suggest a follow-up dental crown procedure. At this point, you might start wondering if getting a crown is really necessary or not.
Getting a crown can help ensure your tooth’s health and durability, but it’s important to note that not every case requires this additional step. The decision to go ahead with a crown after a root canal depends on your specific dental needs. Your dentist will suggest the best course of action, but having some knowledge about when and why a crown might not be necessary can be helpful. In this article from your Fairview Allen dentist, we will discuss the situations where you may need a dental crown following a root canal.
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that aims to save a damaged tooth by removing the infected or decayed dental pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. During the procedure, the dentist will clean the affected pulp chamber and root canal, and then fill and seal it with a biocompatible material to prevent any future infections.
After undergoing a root canal procedure, a tooth’s structure may weaken due to the removal of dental tissue and decay. This is where dental crowns come in. They act as a protective covering or “helmet” that helps to safeguard the treated tooth from further damage or decay by covering the entire tooth. They also restore the natural tooth structure, including the all-important chewing surface.
We understand that another dental procedure may not be something you look forward to. However, after a root canal, your tooth’s structure becomes compromised, making it more susceptible to future damage. A dental crown is like a custom helmet for your tooth that not only protects against tooth decay but also restores the ability to chew without pain or sensitivity.
The process of placing a crown after a root canal typically involves the following steps:
The timing for crown placement after root canal treatment varies depending on individual healing processes and other factors. Generally, a comfortable recovery period is required before the permanent crown can be placed. This time interval is necessary to allow any post-treatment sensitivity or inflammation to subside.
Dental crowns can be made from a range of materials such as porcelain, resin, zirconia, and metal. Porcelain crowns are popular because they have a natural appearance and provide an aesthetic benefit. However, the choice of material depends on various factors, including the location of the tooth and the patient’s personal preference. The dentist will consider these factors during the material selection phase.
The cost of dental crowns can vary significantly based on the type of crown and the location of the dentist’s office. Some dental insurance plans may offer coverage for a portion of the cost of this restorative treatment. For accurate cost assessment, it’s recommended to consult with your dental office.
Dental crowns can last for a long time if you take good care of them. To maintain the health of your natural teeth and your crown, it’s important to practice regular oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist. Additionally, it’s best to avoid using your crowned teeth for activities such as opening bottles and to be cautious when eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods.
The average lifespan of a dental crown following a root canal can vary, but generally, teeth that have received either a filling or a crown after a root canal treatment last an average of around 11 years. It’s important to note that without these restorative procedures, the lifespan significantly decreases to about 6.5 years. Quality and care can extend the lifespan of dental crowns, with some well-maintained crowns lasting between 10 to 15 years or more. The variation in lifespan can also be influenced by factors such as the material of the crown, the location in the mouth, and the individual’s oral hygiene practices.
Following this type of dental restoration, a crown is generally recommended to protect the now more brittle tooth, especially for molars and premolars that endure significant chewing pressure. However, a crown may only sometimes be necessary, particularly for front teeth or if a tooth retains much of its natural structure post-procedure, as these situations involve less chewing force and might not compromise the tooth’s integrity as much.
The decision often depends on the tooth’s location, the remaining natural tooth structure, and its overall functionality. Dental professionals carefully assess these factors to determine the best treatment plan, ensuring the tooth’s health and longevity without automatically resorting to crowning.
In some cases, it’s possible to complete both a root canal and crown placement in a single visit, especially with advances in dental technology like same-day crowns. However, this approach largely depends on the complexity of the root canal, the specific tooth involved, and the dental office’s equipment.
Although dental crowns are a common type of treatment post-root-canal, alternatives like onlays, 3D-printed restorations, or even a dental bridge exist. However, for the majority of patients, crowns offer a versatile solution that combines protection and aesthetics.
If you’re in the Fairview Allen area and are experiencing the sudden onset of dental pain or sensitivity, or have questions about root canals and dental crowns, we’re here for you in maintaining your oral health. To schedule your next visit, please contact our office online or call 972-468-1440.
Our dental office is located in Fairview, Texas, and our patients visit us from across the surrounding areas, including Allen, Plano, McKinney, and Lucas.
