Why Does My Tooth Need a Crown After a Root Canal?

When it comes to a root canal, most patients have a crown placed on the remaining tooth. For a lot of people, this is just a given. The truth is that not every patient goes this route. However, there are several reasons why having a crown added is important. After all, you want to do everything possible to protect your teeth.

The root canal process

Because a root canal is virtually painless, there is nothing to fear. Instead of living with pain, an individual will need to visit a dentist. If necessary, the dental professional will determine if the patient needs a root canal. Typically, the dentist performs this procedure on the same day as the examination. If there is only one tooth involved, the process will only take about an hour to complete.

Getting started

For a root canal, a trained dentist or endodontist first numbs the patient’s mouth. After drilling a small hole in the tooth, the dental professional removes the pulp and any debris. At that same time, the dentist reshapes the canal. Doing this eliminates the risk of the patient developing an infection. Also pulling a tooth is an option, the goal is to save a person’s permanent tooth. That is why a root canal is so valuable.

Adding a crown

After completing the root canal procedure, the dentist caps the tooth with a crown. Since this is custom made, the patient receives a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready. Some dentists have the equipment in their office to make a cap. Otherwise, the order goes to a dental laboratory that creates it. If made off-site, the patient would return to the dental office for the fitting.

Considering the dentist drilled the tooth and removed debris, the procedure weakens the tooth. The primary reason for getting a crown after a root canal is that it strengthens the tooth. Once capped, the patient’s tooth can continue functioning as it should. That means the individual can eat without any problem.

A crowned tooth following a root canal also serves as a protective barrier. Without any covering, debris would get inside, possibly leading to irritation or infection. There is also an aesthetic reason for this step. Especially if a patient has a root canal on a visible tooth, it should be covered. A crown of the same color and shape as the person’s natural tooth would not stand out.

If a patient tends to grind their teeth at night, the crown prevents any damage to the natural tooth. Even so, the dentist might recommend a mouthguard. Made to fit the mouth, the patient will sleep with the device in place. As a result, any grinding would not cause chips or cracks.

There are times when a dentist does not crown a tooth after a root canal. Usually, a dental professional considers the location and function of the tooth when deciding. Of course, a patient can opt to have a tooth capped regardless.

Saving your teeth

While you might not think that having a root canal sounds like fun, it causes no pain and protects your tooth. That way, you can keep eating, smiling and laughing confidently. As soon as you experience a problem, contact your dentist. You want to report any pain right away.

Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

How Often Do I Need Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care is one of the most important factors contributing to good dental health. While going to the dentist twice a year is the standard rule of thumb, the frequency of the visits ultimately depends on the patient's needs and the recommendation of the dentist. Learn how often routine care should be scheduled and…

What To Do If You Have Been Negligent On Routine Dental Care

Prioritizing routine dental care is necessary for good health. Unfortunately, some people can find it difficult to care properly for their teeth by brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist on a regular basis. Patients who disregard dental hygiene and professional care need immediate action to prevent dangerous outcomes.In addition to an unsightly smile, failing to…

How To Fit Routine Dental Care Into Your Schedule

Many people may believe that they do not have time for routine dental care, which consists of daily brushing and flossing as well as periodic cleaning by a dentist. Admittedly, these tasks do take some time but should be a priority even in a busy schedule. People who do not take time for brushing, flossing,…

How To Keep Your Mouth Healthy After A Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings are integral for keeping your mouth healthy. They remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that regular brushing and flossing cannot, leaving your teeth and gums refreshed. Maintaining healthy habits that keep your smile bright and strong is essential to make the most of a dental cleaning. Caring for your teeth properly after…

Palm Beach Dentistry

Share
Published by
Palm Beach Dentistry

Recent Posts

How Often Do I Need Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care is one of the most important factors contributing to good dental health.…

22 hours ago

What To Do if You Have Been Negligent on Routine Dental Care

Prioritizing routine dental care is necessary for good health. Unfortunately, some people can find it…

2 days ago

How To Fit Routine Dental Care Into Your Schedule

Many people may believe that they do not have time for routine dental care, which…

1 week ago

How to Keep Your Mouth Healthy After a Dental Cleaning

Most dentists follow the American Dental Association's (ADA) recommendation of performing a routine dental checkup…

1 week ago

Are X-Rays Part of Routine Dental Care

When patients go for routine dental care, they may or may not have X-rays taken…

1 week ago

Routine Dental Care FAQs

Maintaining routine dental care is important for oral and overall health, but many patients have…

2 weeks ago