Why a crown is often needed after a root canal

After a root canal, many people feel the problem is solved and plan to stop there. Your dentist may advise a crown, and there is a good reason for it.

What is a crown?

A crown is a cap that fits over the whole visible part of a tooth. It restores its shape and protects it. Crowns are made in a laboratory from a model of your tooth.

Why does a root-treated tooth need one?

Before the root canal, the tooth was often weakened by decay, a crack or an old large filling. The treatment itself also takes away some tooth structure. Back teeth do most of your chewing and take strong force, so a weakened back tooth can crack or split, and a split tooth may not be repairable.

A crown holds the tooth together and spreads the force. Front teeth take less chewing force, and if much of the tooth is still intact, a filling may be enough. Your dentist will decide for your tooth.

What happens between the root canal and the crown?

Usually a temporary filling or a temporary crown protects the tooth for a short time. The gap between the two is the risky part:

• Chew on the other side until the crown is fitted.
• Avoid very hard or sticky food on the treated tooth.
• If the temporary filling or crown comes off, call us. Do not leave the tooth open for long, because bacteria can get back in.

What does getting a crown involve?

1. The tooth is shaped so that the crown can fit over it.
2. An impression or scan is taken, and the crown is made.
3. A temporary crown protects the tooth while you wait.
4. At the next visit, the final crown is checked for fit and bite and cemented in place.

It usually takes two visits.

What are crowns made of?

There are metal, ceramic and combined types. Which is suitable depends on the tooth, your bite and the appearance you want. Ask your dentist about the choices for your tooth.

Looking after a crowned tooth

The tooth under a crown can still get decay at the edge of the crown. Brush it twice a day, clean between your teeth, and keep your regular check-ups. See what causes tooth decay.

When to see a dentist

Come in if a temporary crown comes off, if the tooth hurts when you bite, or if a gum bump or swelling appears. For the treatment that comes first, read root canal treatment explained.

Crowns are available at both our clinics, in Sayan and on Chhaprabhatha-Variyav Road. Use the booking button below to ask for an appointment.