If you've had a root canal treatment, your dentist may recommend getting a dental crown placed on the treated tooth. While the thought of needing another procedure after a root canal might raise some questions, it's an important step to ensure your tooth is fully restored and protected. In this article, we’ll explain why a crown is necessary after a root canal, what it does for your tooth, and what you can expect during the process.
Understanding Root Canal Treatment
Before diving into why a crown is needed, it’s important to understand what a root canal actually does. A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth, specifically when the pulp (the inner soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected or severely decayed. During the procedure, your dentist or endodontist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the tooth’s root canals, and then fills the space with a special material.
While a root canal saves the tooth from extraction, it leaves the tooth more vulnerable to further damage. This is where a crown comes in.
Why You Need a Crown After a Root Canal
After a root canal, the structure of your tooth changes, and here's why a dental crown is necessary for long-term success and protection:
1. To Protect the Tooth from Fracture or Damage
One of the most important reasons for placing a crown after a root canal is to protect the tooth from fracturing or breaking. After the root canal procedure, the tooth becomes more brittle. This is because the inner pulp, which helps keep the tooth hydrated and strong, has been removed. The tooth becomes dry and more prone to cracking, especially when it’s subjected to biting forces.
A dental crown covers and encases the entire tooth, providing added strength and protection against damage from chewing and grinding. It acts as a protective shield, ensuring the tooth can withstand everyday forces without breaking.
2. To Restore the Tooth’s Function
After a root canal, your tooth may lose its natural shape and functionality due to the removal of the pulp and decay. A crown helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, and appearance, allowing it to function just like a natural tooth again.
The crown improves the tooth’s ability to handle pressure while chewing, making it possible for you to eat comfortably without worrying about damaging the tooth.
3. To Improve the Aesthetic Appearance
In some cases, the tooth that’s had a root canal might be discolored or weakened in appearance. A crown can be made to match the color of your natural teeth, improving the overall look of your smile. This is particularly important for front teeth, where appearance is crucial for your smile.
Crowns are available in various materials, including porcelain, which can be matched to the exact color of your teeth, ensuring that your smile looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.
4. To Seal the Tooth and Prevent Infection
After a root canal, the tooth is no longer able to protect itself in the way it used to. A crown forms a sealed barrier over the tooth, which prevents bacteria from entering the root canal and causing a new infection. This is particularly important in the long term, as the tooth can become reinfected if bacteria are able to penetrate the open areas of the tooth.
The crown helps keep the tooth sealed, protecting it from harmful bacteria and ensuring that the root canal treatment lasts for years to come.
5. To Prevent Further Decay
Even after a root canal, the tooth can still be susceptible to decay if it isn’t properly protected. A crown not only shields the tooth but also prevents plaque and bacteria from causing decay on the tooth’s surface. By covering the tooth, the crown helps keep it safe from external factors that could lead to further damage or infection.
What Happens During the Crown Placement Procedure?
Placing a crown typically involves two visits to your dentist. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
First Visit: Preparing the Tooth
-
Assessment and Shaping: Your dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to make sure the root canal was successful and the tooth is free of infection. If everything looks good, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth and begin preparing it for the crown.
-
Tooth Shaping: To ensure that the crown fits properly, your dentist will shave down the tooth to create space for the crown. This will help the crown sit securely on the tooth.
-
Impressions: Once the tooth is shaped, your dentist will take impressions of the tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions will be sent to a dental lab where your permanent crown will be created. While the permanent crown is being made, your dentist may place a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it.
Second Visit: Placing the Crown
-
Fitting the Permanent Crown: After your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to your dentist’s office to have it placed. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit of the permanent one. They will make sure it aligns correctly with your bite and that it’s comfortable.
-
Cementing the Crown: Once the fit is perfect, your dentist will permanently cement the crown in place.
The entire process can take about 1-2 weeks from start to finish, with a temporary crown worn in the meantime.
For more details on the restoration process, you can refer to our post on dental crowns pros and cons to learn more about when crowns are needed and how they benefit your oral health.
Materials Used for Crowns
Dental crowns can be made from several different materials, depending on the location of the tooth, your personal preferences, and your budget:
-
Porcelain or Ceramic: These materials are often used for front teeth because they can be color-matched to your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
-
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): This option combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain and is commonly used for back teeth.
-
Metal (Gold or Other Alloys): Metal crowns are strong and durable, making them a good choice for back teeth, where strength is a priority over appearance.
-
Zirconia: A newer material that’s both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Zirconia crowns are used for both front and back teeth.
Your dentist will discuss the best material for your crown based on your needs and preferences.
How Long Does a Crown Last?
A crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years with proper care, and some crowns can even last longer. To maximize the lifespan of your crown:
-
Avoid chewing on hard objects (like ice or hard candies) that could damage the crown.
-
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
-
Visit your dentist for routine checkups to ensure your crown is in good condition.
For more information on how to care for your dental work, check out our post on how to care for your teeth after a root canal.
A crown is an essential part of the restoration process after a root canal. It not only protects the treated tooth from breaking or further damage but also restores its function and appearance. By placing a crown, you ensure that the tooth remains strong, functional, and free of infection, allowing you to continue enjoying a healthy smile.
If you’ve had a root canal and are wondering whether you need a crown, consult with your dentist to determine the best option for your tooth’s long-term health. To learn more about dental restoration options, be sure to explore our posts on restorative dentistry and dental implants.