When it comes to a root canal, most patients have a crown placed on the remaining tooth. For a lot of people, this is just a given. The truth is that not every patient goes this route. However, there are several reasons why having a crown added is important. After all, you want to do everything possible to protect your teeth.
Because a root canal is virtually painless, there is nothing to fear. Instead of living with pain, an individual will need to visit a dentist. If necessary, the dental professional will determine if the patient needs a root canal. Typically, the dentist performs this procedure on the same day as the examination. If there is only one tooth involved, the process will only take about an hour to complete.
For a root canal, a trained dentist or endodontist first numbs the patient’s mouth. After drilling a small hole in the tooth, the dental professional removes the pulp and any debris. At that same time, the dentist reshapes the canal. Doing this eliminates the risk of the patient developing an infection. Also pulling a tooth is an option, the goal is to save a person’s permanent tooth. That is why a root canal is so valuable.
After completing the root canal procedure, the dentist caps the tooth with a crown. Since this is custom made, the patient receives a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready. Some dentists have the equipment in their office to make a cap. Otherwise, the order goes to a dental laboratory that creates it. If made off-site, the patient would return to the dental office for the fitting.
Considering the dentist drilled the tooth and removed debris, the procedure weakens the tooth. The primary reason for getting a crown after a root canal is that it strengthens the tooth. Once capped, the patient’s tooth can continue functioning as it should. That means the individual can eat without any problem.
A crowned tooth following a root canal also serves as a protective barrier. Without any covering, debris would get inside, possibly leading to irritation or infection. There is also an aesthetic reason for this step. Especially if a patient has a root canal on a visible tooth, it should be covered. A crown of the same color and shape as the person’s natural tooth would not stand out.
If a patient tends to grind their teeth at night, the crown prevents any damage to the natural tooth. Even so, the dentist might recommend a mouthguard. Made to fit the mouth, the patient will sleep with the device in place. As a result, any grinding would not cause chips or cracks.
There are times when a dentist does not crown a tooth after a root canal. Usually, a dental professional considers the location and function of the tooth when deciding. Of course, a patient can opt to have a tooth capped regardless.
While you might not think that having a root canal sounds like fun, it causes no pain and protects your tooth. That way, you can keep eating, smiling and laughing confidently. As soon as you experience a problem, contact your dentist. You want to report any pain right away.
Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
When receding gums get worse, the tooth's root gets exposed, making it susceptible to bacterial infection and damage. In addition, the condition can be unsightly and cause dental sensitivity and discomfort. A soft tissue transplant or gum graft is the treatment dentists recommend, which involves attaching a small piece of gum tissue around your teeth.…
The primary way receding gums are treated is through a gum graft. This procedure involves taking soft tissue from another area and placing it where the recession has occurred. This guide provides tips on how to recover after a gum graft for receding gum treatment.You can help ensure a smooth and fast recovery after receding…
Oral surgery is sometimes necessary to correct issues that are beyond treatment from basic restorative or preventive care. A general dentist trained in oral surgery can often provide a variety of in-office procedures, offering both convenience and continuity of care. These treatments are performed in a comfortable setting, and they support long-term oral health, improve…
Receding gums is a condition that leads to gum tissues pulling back from teeth roots. It leaves these roots exposed to acids made by oral bacteria that cause decay. Unlike the crown of a tooth, which is protected by enamel, teeth roots have an outer layer called cementum that is not as durable as enamel.…
When receding gums get worse, the tooth's root gets exposed, making it susceptible to bacterial infection and damage. In addition, the condition can be unsightly and cause dental sensitivity and discomfort. A soft tissue transplant or gum graft is the treatment dentists recommend, which involves attaching a small piece of gum tissue around your teeth.…
The primary way receding gums are treated is through a gum graft. This procedure involves taking soft tissue from another area and placing it where the recession has occurred. This guide provides tips on how to recover after a gum graft for receding gum treatment.You can help ensure a smooth and fast recovery after receding…