The Dental Issue: A Weakened Tooth
Root canals target the infected or damaged pulp inside your tooth, a crucial step to save it. However, this treatment might leave your tooth more fragile than before. Since the tooth no longer has the pulp’s support, it could become more susceptible to stress. Put more simply-a root canal tooth doesn’t have a nerve or blood vessel so its DRY inside. This can make it more brittle and prone to breaking!
While a root canal effectively rids the tooth of infection, it doesn’t strengthen the tooth’s structure. Here’s where the post and core and crown comes into play.
First, when a root canal is done, a hole is made in your tooth to access the nerve to remove it. After the root canal is completed and a rubber material called gutta percha has been placed in the root canal system, the tooth must be restored. This can be done with a filling called a “core” or a post may be placed into the root canal system, cemented into the root and used as an anchor to hold your new filling. This is called a post and core. Dr. Winter will explain what is required and why. The type of restoration is determined by the presence of old fillings that must be removed, the amount of healthy tooth left after the root canal and the type of bite forces you have. A filling or core will always be done after a root canal. Then you have the PROPER FOUNDATION for a crown. The success of a crown depends upon having a solid tooth base to adhere the crown to. If a crown doesn’t have at least 4mm of height, crown-lengthening surgery may be done so the crown or cap, can stay on the tooth better, once it is cemented.
Doctors Know How to Help: The Role of a Crown
A crown serves as a cap covering the entire visible portion of your tooth, enhancing structural support and warding off future damage. It restores the natural function of your tooth, so you can enjoy eating and speaking without trouble.
Each crown is tailor-made to precisely fit your tooth and is designed to handle the pressures of daily biting and chewing. A crown is a durable solution that can extend the life of your tooth for many years.
By opting for a crown, you are taking a proactive step towards maintaining the strength and functionality of your tooth, potentially reducing the need for more dental work down the line.
If the tooth is not saveable and the cost of a root canal, post and core and crown may not be the best solution, then extraction and a dental implant may be your best solution.
Book Your Root Canal Appointment in Milwaukee, WI
Looking to protect your dental health? Contact Hampton Dental Associates at 414-464-9021 to book a consultation with Dr. Richarrd Winter, DDS. Receive personalized advice on whether a crown is the right option for you and take a step towards ensuring a robust, healthy smile.
Don’t delay—secure the long-term health of your teeth with expert care and appropriate treatment.
