Will I Need a Crown After a Root Canal?

Porcelain crowns are widely used in therapeutic and cosmetic dentistry. One of the most common cases when a crown is placed is after a root canal treatment. In this article, we answer a common question: Will I need a crown after a root canal?

Will I Need a Crown After a Root Canal?

Not every patient who undergoes root canal therapy also requires a dental crown. Crowns are recommended in the following cases:

• When a significant portion of the tooth is removed during root canal therapy, the tooth’s structure is weakened, making it less likely for the tooth to withstand future chewing pressure.
• When the tooth is cracked or chipped
• For back teeth that sustain a lot of chewing and biting forces
• There is a risk of reinfection.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a protective “cap” that fully covers the tooth to seal it from bacteria, saliva, and food particles usually made of porcelain or resin composite. There are several benefits of getting a dental crown after a root canal treatment:

• A crown reinforces the tooth’s structure, preventing it from cracking or breaking, and restores its chewing function.
• A crown helps restore the appearance, color, and alignment of the treated tooth.
• A crown ensures the longevity of the treated tooth.
• By restoring the tooth’s alignment and height, the crown can also enhance comfort and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position.

When You May Not Require a Crown?

You may not require a dental crown after root canal therapy in the following cases:

• When a root canal is performed on one of the front teeth, since they do not actively participate in a lot of chewing and do not have to withstand a lot of pressure
• When the pulp infection is not extensive enough to significantly weaken the tooth, and the tooth remains structurally secure, it is considered a non-surgical treatment.
• When the damage is not extensive and you have good oral health with no other issues that can pose the risk of reinfection of the treated tooth

Remember that your dentist will be the best judge of whether you require a crown after your root canal treatment, as they will conduct a thorough examination and may use an X-ray or scan.

What Types of Crowns Are Available?

These are the main types of dental crowns typically available at the majority of dental offices:

• Porcelain crowns: This option is durable and can last for up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. Also, the color of your porcelain crown can be closely matched to the color of the rest of your teeth, so it will not be noticeable in the mouth.
• Resin composite crowns: This is the most inexpensive option, but also the least durable. Resin composite crowns are mainly used as a temporary solution for same-day crowns or when treating baby teeth.
• Metal crowns (silver amalgam or gold): This type of crown is very durable (especially gold crowns) and can last for 20 years and even longer in some cases. However, metal crowns are noticeable in the mouth and, therefore, not popular for teeth that are visible when you talk or smile, unless you go for that look specifically. Metal crowns are more commonly used for teeth at the very back of the mouth.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: This type of crown combines the natural appearance of porcelain crowns and has greater durability due to its metal base.

Make an Appointment at The Smile Artists LA Today

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at The Smile Artists LA today. Our specialists utilize modern treatment methods and high-quality materials to deliver reliable results to our patients.