If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you might already know it’s a crucial procedure for saving a damaged or infected tooth. But what happens after the root canal? Often, the next step is getting a dental crown. This isn’t just an add-on; it’s a vital part of ensuring your tooth remains healthy and strong for years to come.
Understanding why a crown is so important can help you feel more confident about your treatment plan. This post will explain the benefits of placing a crown after a root canal, showing how this final step protects your tooth, restores its function, and ultimately helps prevent tooth loss. At Aesthetic Dentistry in Wasilla, we want you to be fully informed about the care you receive.
Why Does a Tooth Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
A root canal procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from inside your tooth. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and while removing it saves the tooth from extraction, it also leaves the tooth more brittle and susceptible to damage.
Think of the tooth’s structure after a root canal. The procedure requires drilling an opening to access the inner pulp, which weakens the tooth. Furthermore, the absence of the pulp, which once provided hydration, makes the tooth’s enamel more fragile. Without protection, this weakened tooth is at a high risk of fracturing. This is where a dental crown comes in.
The Key Benefits of a Crown After a Root Canal
Placing a dental crown over a tooth that has undergone a root canal is standard practice for several important reasons. Let’s look at the main benefits.
1. It Strengthens and Protects the Tooth
One of the most significant benefits of crowns after a root canal is tooth strengthening. The tooth is significantly weaker after a root canal and can easily fracture from the pressure of normal chewing. A study published in the Journal of Endodontics found that teeth without crowns after a root canal were much more likely to be extracted later due to fracture.
A dental crown acts like a helmet for your tooth. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth down to the gum line, holding it together and distributing biting forces evenly. This protection is essential for preventing cracks or fractures that could lead to the need for extraction.
2. It Provides a Protective Seal
After a root canal, the tooth is sealed with a filling to prevent bacteria from re-entering the cleaned-out canals. However, this filling material can wear down or leak over time. If bacteria get back into the tooth, a new infection can develop, potentially causing the root canal to fail.
A crown provides a durable, long-lasting seal over the top of the tooth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a well-fitted crown is one of the best ways to protect against re-infection. It creates a strong barrier that keeps harmful bacteria out, safeguarding the success of your root canal treatment.
3. It Restores Full Chewing Function
A weakened tooth can make chewing uncomfortable or even painful. You might find yourself avoiding one side of your mouth to prevent putting pressure on the treated tooth. This can affect your bite and put extra strain on your other teeth.
A crown restores the tooth to its original shape, size, and strength. Once the crown is in place, you can chew and bite down with confidence, just as you would with a healthy, natural tooth. This restored function allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry and maintains a balanced bite, which is important for your overall oral health.
4. It Ensures a Natural Appearance
A tooth that has had a root canal can sometimes become discolored over time, appearing grayish or darker than the surrounding teeth. This can be a cosmetic concern, especially if the tooth is visible when you smile.
Modern dental crowns are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. At Aesthetic Dentistry, we use high-quality materials like porcelain to create crowns that blend seamlessly with your smile. The crown covers any discoloration, restoring the tooth’s natural and healthy appearance.
Protect Your Investment with a Dental Crown
A root canal is an investment in saving your natural tooth. Completing the treatment with a dental crown is the best way to protect that investment. The benefits of getting a crown—strengthening the tooth, sealing it from infection, and restoring its function and appearance—are essential for its long-term survival.
If you’ve recently had a root canal or have questions about the process, our team at Aesthetic Dentistry in Wasilla, AK, is here to help. We can assess your tooth and determine the best course of action to ensure it stays healthy and strong for years to come.
Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how a dental crown can complete your treatment and protect your smile.