If you have recently completed root canal treatment (RCT), your dentist may now recommend a crown to place over your tooth.
While it may seem to be an extra step, having a crown placed on your tooth but it is vital for the long-term success of your overall
dental treatment, so let’s talk about why that is.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment involves a procedure that has the potential to save a tooth that is decayed or infected. During root canal therapy, the dentist removes the infected pulp (the nerve and blood vessels inside of a tooth), disinfects the canal, and seals the tooth. This process removes the pain and the infection but leaves the tooth more brittle than initially found.
Benefits of Crown:-
1. It Will Restore Strength to the Tooth
When the dentist performs a root canal procedure, your tooth becomes hollow and has historically limited natural structure due to the nature of the surgical procedure. Consequently, teeth that have been treated are more likely to break or fracture while chewing under normal forces compared to teeth that have never been treated.
A crown acts as a cap and protects the tooth to restore strength and function.
2. Prevents Fracture
Teeth after root canal therapy (RCT)—especially molars—are subject to significant chewing force.
Without a crown, the likelihood of breaking the tooth is high. Fractured teeth may become non-restorable and extracted.
A crown will protect against fracture!
3. Protection from Bacterial Reinfection
Even with RCT completed, bacteria can enter the tooth via micro-fissures, cracks, or exposed surfaces.
A well-fitting crown is a sealed barrier, and it significantly reduces the potential for reinfection and failure of the treatment.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Teeth that require root canal therapy may discolor or lose their natural luster.
The cosmetic appearance and confidence of your smile can be restored with a natural tooth colored ceramic or porcelain crown!
5. Maximizes Long-Term Success of RCT
Teeth undergoing RCT with crown restoration have a substantially higher long-term survival rate compared to non-crowned teeth.
Not only will a crown enhance durability, but it will also minimize future complications.
By Dr. Pankaj Goyal & Dr. Savita Arya Goyal
