Hearing that you need a root canal may not be welcome news. Rest assured, the procedure is not as scary as its reputation. Despite what you may have heard, there is minimal pain and discomfort during the process. Along with cleaning out your tooth, you will likely get a crown over it to protect it from further damage and infection.
This common procedure is necessary when a tooth has become severely decayed or infected. Without this treatment, the tooth could abscess, and infection could spread throughout the mouth and into other parts of the body. The dentist removes the pulp, which contains vessels and nerves. After cleaning out the tooth, the dentist disinfects the area and then seals it. This helps to prevent further problems and reduces the risk of cavities and infections in the tooth.
Sometimes known as a dental cap, the crown goes over a tooth, protecting it and stabilizing it. The crown is typically made of porcelain, ceramic, resin, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. The dentist can make the crown the same color as the surrounding teeth so that it will not stand out.
Some crowns are made of metal. Though these are more noticeable, they are often more durable and long-lasting. A crown looks like a natural tooth and allows the patient to retain full biting and chewing capabilities.
After finishing the root canal, the dentist may place a temporary crown over the tooth. In this case, the patient would return to the office in a few weeks for a permanent one. Other dentists begin preparing the crown before the root canal procedure so that it is ready for the patient. T
To put the crown over the tooth, the dentist must first take X-rays and make impressions of the patient’s mouth. This ensures that the crown will fit. When the patient is ready to receive it, the dentist shaves the tooth and cements the crown in place.
Though crowns can withstand a lot of force, patients should be cautious about what they eat. The dentist may advise the person to avoid hard foods after the root canal. This may be necessary in the long term to protect the crown as well.
Daily brushing and flossing are still critical. These activities will help the crown last longer and work effectively. At each dental checkup, the dentist will examine the crown to ensure it still fits properly and remains in good condition.
Root canal treatment can help extend the life of one’s tooth. Removing the infected pulp tends to weaken the dental structure. That is why the dentist will suggest a dental crown for the treated tooth. Here are the benefits of having a crown after a root canal treatment:
Root canal therapy can change a tooth’s color. The treated tooth may appear gray or even stained. This can make the tooth stand out from the rest of the natural teeth. Placing a crown over the treated tooth can renew its appearance. The dentist can match the color of the crown to the color of the surrounding teeth. This will make it difficult for anyone to tell which tooth had root canal treatment.
The treated tooth will be weaker and more sensitive to temperature and touch. They may also seem more brittle, leaving them susceptible to damage. This sensation can be uncomfortable. That is why the dentist will place a crown over the treated tooth to protect the tooth and the patient's comfort, preventing further damage and infection.
As previously mentioned, root canal therapy can make the tooth more brittle, especially in cases of severe damage and decay. It will need some level of strengthening after this treatment. A dental crown can provide the support the dental structure needs. It can restore the broken tooth and extend its functionality.
When you get a root canal, cleaning the tooth and removing the decay are not the only parts of the procedure. A dental crown can protect your treated tooth and reduce the risk of future damage. Do you have questions for the Thanasas Family Dental Care team? Call our Troy office to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.thanasasdds.com or call Thanasas Family Dental Care at (248) 260-2878 for an appointment in our Troy office.
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