Are you experiencing sharp pain in your tooth that makes it hard to bite or chew? If so, you may need root canal therapy to save your tooth. Undergoing root canal therapy (RCT) could be a scary and frightening experience for some people, including adults. However, it is a crucial treatment if you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth.
While this procedure is an effective remedy for an infected or severely damaged tooth, your tooth will remain structurally weak. According to the American Dental Association, your teeth become prone to fractures or cracks after an RCT procedure. However, you can minimize your risk of tooth fracture afterward by wearing a dental crown. If you are wondering why a dental crown is necessary after an RCT procedure, this article is for you.
What is Root Canal Therapy, and Why is it Necessary?
Also known as endodontic treatment, RCT is a vital procedure your dentist may recommend if you have a severely damaged or infected tooth. During this procedure, your dentist will drill into your tooth to access the inner chamber and remove the infected pulp, including blood vessels and nerves.
Removal of these materials is vital to prevent the progression of the issue and alleviate the bothersome symptoms caused by the infection. When your dentist removes compromised pulp material, he/she will thoroughly disinfect and clean the area to eliminate bacteria. Then, he/she will seal it with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha.
The restoration enables you to retain your natural teeth rather than having them removed. Fortunately, technological advancements make this treatment more comfortable than ever before, making it an ideal option for someone suffering from a serious dental problem. With excellent care, you can enjoy a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth for years without worrying about re-infection.
However, for the results of this treatment to last for several years, your dentist will recommend wearing a dental crown on the affected tooth.
A Look at What Dental Crowns Are and Why You Need Them After RCT
A dental crown is a tailor-made cap your dentist or lab tech designs to fit over your weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Some of the materials that a dentist uses to make a dental crown include resin, metal, or porcelain. The specific material your dentist will recommend to make your dental crown will depend on the location of the affected tooth and your aesthetic preferences.
As mentioned in the previous sentence, RCT is an excellent treatment for a severely infected or damaged tooth. However, this treatment can weaken the tooth's structure, making it more prone to fractures. In this situation, a dentist recommends a crown to strengthen the tooth and act as a protective barrier, preventing further damage.
Other notable benefits of wearing a dental crown after RCT include the following:
- They can help restore your tooth functionality, allowing you to bite and chew better without unnecessary discomfort
- They can enhance the aesthetics of your smile and boost your overall confidence. Since they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, a person might not notice you have them unless you tell him/her
- They help maintain excellent alignment of your teeth by filling the gap left after the treatment
- They improve your oral health by minimizing the risk of infection since they seal any exposed areas that can harbor harmful bacteria, ensuring long-lasting results after undergoing RCT
- They help minimize tooth sensitivity issues by sealing your nerve endings effectively, minimizing or preventing discomfort when performing basic activities like chewing food or drinking cold beverages
- They are long-lasting, making them a worthwhile investment for your oral health
For these reasons, your dentist will recommend wearing dental crowns as a vital step after undergoing an endodontic treatment or RCT. Investing in dental crowns after an endodontic treatment provides peace of mind about your dental and oral health.
Types of Dental Crowns Your Dentist Could Recommend After Your RCT
If your dentist has suggested placing dental crowns after endodontic treatment, you may be wondering about the available options and the cost. The specific dental crown your dentist will recommend will depend on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the overall condition of the repaired tooth. Common dental crown options available include the following:
Metal Crowns
Your dentist or his/her dental technician can use various metals to make your custom dental crown, including nickel, gold, chromium, and palladium. Since metal crowns rarely chip or break, they are ideal for molars because they can withstand chewing forces for several years. The metallic appearance is the only drawback of this option, making it ideal for out-of-sight molars.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
As the name suggests, two materials are fused to make your dental crown. Dentists usually do this to combine the natural look of porcelain and the durability of metals, making them match seamlessly with the aesthetic appearance of your tooth. Also, since they are not conspicuous like metal crowns, your dentist can use them even on your front teeth.
All Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
The dentist is more likely to recommend all-porcelain or ceramic dental crowns if you are worried about the aesthetic appearance of your smile after RCT or are allergic to metal. In addition to being less noticeable, porcelain or ceramic dental crowns cause less damage to the teeth's enamel than metal braces.
All Resin Dental Crowns
While these crowns are less expensive than other types, they are fragile and more likely to wear down or break, especially when used on molars. A dentist usually recommends them if you need temporary crowns, as they last 3 to 5 years, depending on your oral hygiene habits.
Generally speaking, dental crowns are a long-lasting restorative treatment, especially after an endodontic treatment. Your dentist can advise you on the best dental crown for your unique needs and preferences.
What to Expect During the Placement of a Dental Crown
If your dentist has recommended dental crowns after a successful RCT, you may wonder what the procedure entails. Fortunately, it is a painless procedure that could require you to schedule at least two appointments. Here is what to expect during both appointments:
First Appointment
Here are the steps to expect during your first dental crown appointment with your dentist:
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Preparation of Your Teeth
To prepare your tooth for a dental crown, your dentist may need to remove some of your natural tooth enamel to make the dental crown fit perfectly. The main goal of this initial step is to establish a strong foundation for your new dental crown.
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Taking Dental Impressions
After preparation, the dentist will take impressions of the restored tooth using digital imaging techniques or a putty-like material. Then, the dentist will send the impressions to the lab technician to design and make your tailored dental crowns.
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Temporary Crown Placement
As you wait for your final customized dental crown, which will take two to three weeks, your dentist will place a temporary crown on the repaired tooth. Dentists usually use acrylic or resin to make temporary dental crowns.
Second Appointment
Once your customized dental crown is ready, your dentist will ask you to schedule your second appointment for crown placement on your restored tooth. During this second appointment, the dentist will do the following:
- Remove the temporary dental crown
- Check the color, fit, and shape of your new crown
- Bond your custom crown to the affected or weakened tooth using a special dental cement
The dental crown placement procedure is successful if it holds your tooth firmly, has smooth edges, and feels natural.
Tips for Caring and Maintaining Your Dental Crown After a Root Canal
Understanding the do’s and don'ts after receiving your customized dental crown is vital. Most people can resume their school, work, and other daily activities after receiving your dental crown. However, you will likely experience slight sensitivity for a couple of weeks after the procedure, especially when sipping cold or hot beverages.
After this procedure, you may also experience some slight tenderness and soreness in your gums around the affected tooth for a few days. Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort after dental crown placement.
To increase the durability of your dental crowns and keep them in excellent condition, you should be aware of the following do’s and don'ts:
The Do’s
After receiving your dental crowns, you should maintain an excellent oral care routine to keep them in good condition for several years. You can achieve that by doing the following:
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Practicing Excellent Oral Hygiene Practices
Your daily oral hygiene habits matter a lot if you have received a dental crown after RCT. You can start by brushing your teeth at least twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to minimize wear and tear on your dental crown. Your dentist can guide you on effective ways to brush your teeth and achieve the results you want.
Brushing your teeth daily helps remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. Another crucial daily routine that you should never overlook is dental flossing. Flossing your teeth daily helps remove food particles stuck between your teeth, which can be an excellent environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to more dental issues that may require an RCT.
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Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
Even if you do not have dental crowns, swishing antibacterial mouthwash daily is important. Doing that helps keep harmful bacteria in your mouth and plaque at bay. You can use mouthwash before or after brushing your teeth, depending on your personal preferences. Your dentist can recommend the best mouthwash brand for you.
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Use a Custom-Made Mouthguard at Night
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding at night is not healthy. In addition to increasing your tooth sensitivity and causing morning headaches, bruxism can lead to excessive wear and tear of your tooth enamel and dental crowns. If you often clench or grind your teeth at night, using a mouthguard can help prevent the wear and tear of your dental crowns, increasing their durability.
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Schedule Regular Appointments With Your Dentist
Regular appointments with your dentist are paramount if you have a restored tooth or dental crown. During your regular appointments with your dentist, he/she can assess your restored tooth to see the progress of the treatment. Dental cleanings are also another important aspect of regular dental appointments with your dentist.
Don'ts
If you have dental crowns, you should avoid certain habits that could compromise the integrity of your restored tooth and your protective dental crowns. For example, you should avoid the following:
- Crunchy and hard foods — Munching on crunchy foods like nuts and popcorn could put your dental crown and teeth enamel at risk of fractures
- Biting or chewing ice cubes — Chewing ice cubes can lead to fractures or damage to your dental crowns and teeth due to the hard, brittle nature of ice
- Sticky and sugary foods — One of the primary enemies to your dental and oral health is sugar. When sugary foods stick to your tooth surface, bacteria feed on them and release acidic excretions, which can erode your tooth enamel and dental crowns, especially if they are resin-made
Common Alternatives to Dental Crowns After a Root Canal Treatment
If you are not an excellent candidate for dental crowns after undergoing root canal treatment, your dentist could recommend the following alternative treatments:
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Dental Fillings
After a root canal, dental fillings can help restore the tooth’s structure. They are less invasive and can be a cost-effective remedy for minor damage.
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Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that cover one or more cusps of a tooth. They are less extensive than dental crowns, but they offer greater coverage than fillings.
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Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made composite resin or porcelain shells that your dentist uses to cover the front surface of a tooth. They are primarily used for aesthetic purposes and can enhance a tooth's appearance after treatment. If you do not like the aesthetic appearance of a dental crown after an endodontic treatment, dental veneers could be an excellent alternative.
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Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a procedure in which a dentist uses tooth-colored composite resin to repair and restore the shape of a tooth. This treatment option is ideal for minor repairs, and your dentist can complete it in a single appointment. Also, this treatment not only restores the aesthetics of your teeth but also strengthens them, enabling them to perform basic functions, including chewing effectively.
Common Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dental Crowns and Root Canal Therapy
If your dentist has scheduled a dental crown placement after RCT, it is natural to ask yourself some questions. This curiosity is vital, as it helps you make informed decisions after understanding what to expect during and after treatment. Here is an overview of some of the most common and frequent questions many people ask about dental crowns, especially after undergoing RCT:
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Can I Skip Wearing a Dental Crown After RCT?
Yes, it is possible to skip a dental crown after endodontic treatment, as the dentist will fill the hollow part of your tooth with composite resin to restore its structure and shape. However, doing so exposes the restored tooth to the risk of fractures from everyday chewing forces.
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How Long Will the Dental Crown Last?
While it depends on the specific dental crown your dentist recommends, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or more. Excellent oral hygiene habits and regular dental appointments are key to improving the durability of your dental crown.
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Will My Dental Crown Appear Natural?
Yes, modern technology allows your dentist or his/her lab technician to design dental crowns that resemble the shape, length, and color shade of your tooth. That is particularly true if the dentist uses porcelain or ceramic crowns on your restored tooth.
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Will I Experience Discomfort During My Dental Crown Placement Appointment?
No, fortunately, thanks to modern technology and local anesthesia, you will not experience any pain or discomfort during your dental crown placement appointment. However, as mentioned in the previous paragraph, you could experience some mild sensitivity for a few days after the treatment.
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How Much is a Dental Crown?
How much you will pay for your dental crown could vary significantly, depending on the complexity of your restoration and the specific material that you will choose. During your initial appointment with your dentist, he/she can provide you with an estimate and let you know whether your insurance provider will cover the cost.
Find a Licensed Dentist Near Me
Root canal therapy is a crucial treatment that can help save your natural tooth if you have severe decay or damage. However, complementary treatments, including dental crowns, may be necessary to strengthen the weakened tooth and achieve the desired aesthetic results.
Our reputable dentists at Tarzana Dental Care understand how important your dental and oral health are, and our goal is to provide the best treatments to help you achieve them. We invite you to call us at 818-708-3232 to schedule your initial obligation-free consultation with our understanding dentists if you or a loved one needs root canal therapy or dental crowns.