When a person has significant decay in a tooth or a tooth is cracked, chipped or broken due to trauma, a root canal may be performed to salvage the tooth and to prevent infection. For many, the process of a root canal can be extremely intimidating. After all, influences such as TV and movies have conditioned us to think that root canals offer untold pain. However, they aren’t that bad. That doesn’t mean that they still don’t intimidate patients. Adding a crown after the procedure is just another added worry. After all, is a crown really necessary after a root canal?
Why Are Crowns Used?
Crowns are one of the most commonly performed dental procedures. Because of their routine use, many people often wonder if a crown is needed. Often, they worry, even with dental insurance, if the cost of a crown may be significant.
The simple answer is that the regular use of crowns is because they offer the best chance at extending the life of the tooth. This best-case scenario is especially true after a root canal procedure. As a root canal involves drilling into the tooth, many patients are extremely hesitant about the procedure. The addition of an additional step – adding the crown – makes it all the more intimidating.
Determining If a Crown Is Required
When a dentist performs a root canal, they will decide if you require a crown based on several factors. First, where is the tooth located in the mouth? Molars often need dental crowns, as these teeth exert much more force and take more abuse when chewing. Teeth in the front, on the other hand, are used more for tearing at food, so are less likely to need a crown.
Secondly, the dentist must consider the patient’s oral health and dental history. Where a patient has had severe issues with their teeth in the past, a crown likely provides the best prospects for long term health. The dentist must also assess whether or not the patient grinds their teeth, as the presence of this sleeping habit will also probably require a crown to protect the tooth.
Finally, your dentist will have to determine the current state of the tooth in question after the root canal. A tooth with extensive decay, for example, will likely require a crown, as there is likely minimal existing tooth structure, making the crown the best possible option for the long-term integrity of the tooth. As with all dental matters, however, it is best to discuss the particulars of your case with your dentist beforehand.
Make Dental Care as Painless as Possible – Call FL Dental Solutions Now
A toothache or cracked tooth might be painful, but visiting your dentist shouldn’t have to be. At Florida Dental Solutions, we always strive to make visiting the dentist as care-free as possible. No matter what your dental problem, we are here to help. We specialize in providing our clients with the highest quality and comprehensive dental care at affordable prices. If you are experiencing pain and believe you may need a root canal, give us a call today at (954) 362-4102 or email our office at floridadentalsolutions@gmail.com to schedule a consultation.
Comments