To Crown or Not To Crown: A Root Canal Dilemma?
woman with dental crown

To Crown or Not To Crown: A Root Canal Dilemma?

After a root canal is completed, it’s essential to place a crown on top. The crown allows the tooth to be sealed and gives it the strength to last. In some cases, a crown is not necessary. For instance, the front teeth are powerful and rarely need any additional support. If you are looking at the most cost-effective option, then let’s weigh the pros and cons and decide if a crown placement is needed.

A root canal is a necessary procedure to save a decaying tooth. However, this surgical procedure can weaken the structure too. It all starts with the breakdown of the pulp inside. If this soft tissue has died, then cleansing and replacing the pulp with a filling can bring relief. Unfortunately, we must drill to remove anything that is decayed. The pulp, dentin, and enamel can all be affected. Drilling, when a large cavity is present, can cause the structure to weaken. When the pulp is removed the tooth essentially dies. Because there is no life or blood flow, it will lose its strength, and it can become prone to fractures.

We add a permanent filling to the tooth to help strengthen it. Consequently, as your Los Angeles root canal specialists, we see many teeth that need that extra layer of protection and some that don’t. The high risk of fracture is reduced by adding additional support. A tooth that has been through a root canal will often appear discolored and won’t have the luster of the others. So a crown will help to restore the natural appearance.

Situations When A Crown Isn’t Necessary

We know you care about your oral health, but you are also concerned about the costs of crowns and root canals. When repairing canines or incisors, we rarely need to use a crown. The location of these teeth means they don’t get the same amount of stress as the molars. If the surgery required the tooth to be excavated heavily, then a crown gives additional strength. A composite filling can provide a stronger seal. This allows the tooth to be used as a chewing surface if most of the original structure remains. These fillings are most generally used on molars and premolars.

Any tooth that has a crown or filling is vulnerable to decay further. Make sure to brush two or three times each day. Whether you have a filling-only restoration or have a crown makes no difference; aftercare means everything. Schedule an appointment today with us. As a Beverly Hills root canal specialist, we can ensure your pain and discomfort is eliminated.

Share:
Skip to content