In the past, extracting an infected or injured tooth was the standard solution. Today, modern dentistry offers better alternatives. Root canal treatment has become one of the most effective ways to save a damaged tooth. However, this procedure is just the first step in restoring your tooth to full health and function. Dentists strongly recommend placing a dental crown after root canal therapy for several important reasons.
Understanding Root Canal Treatment
During a root canal procedure, your dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside your tooth. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that, when compromised, can cause severe pain and infection. After removing the pulp, your dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth before filling it with a special material to prevent reinfection. While this saves your tooth from extraction, it also leaves it more vulnerable than before.
Why Your Treated Tooth Needs Protection?
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment is no longer receiving nutrients and moisture from the pulp. This makes the tooth more brittle and susceptible to fractures. Without proper protection, even normal chewing forces can cause the tooth to crack or break. This is where a dental crown becomes essential – it provides the necessary strength and protection your treated tooth needs.
Key Benefits of Getting a Crown After Root Canal
-
Strengthens the Weakened Tooth
A dental crown completely covers the visible portion of your tooth above the gum line. This provides crucial structural support to your weakened tooth, allowing you to bite and chew normally without fear of damaging it.
-
Prevents Sensitivity
Following root canal treatment, some patients experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. A dental crown creates a protective barrier that shields the tooth from temperature extremes, significantly reducing or eliminating this discomfort.
-
Protects Against Infection
The crown seals the tooth completely, preventing bacteria from entering and causing reinfection. This is vital for long-term success of your root canal treatment.
-
Improves Appearance
Root canal-treated teeth sometimes become discolored over time. A custom-made crown will match the color of your natural teeth, restoring the aesthetic appearance of your smile.
-
Ensures Longevity
While dental fillings can provide some protection, they typically don’t offer the comprehensive coverage and durability that a crown does. With proper care, a crown can protect your treated tooth for many years, even decades.
Making the Right Choice for Your Dental Health
At Bayswater Dental Clinic, we understand that additional dental work may seem unnecessary after already undergoing root canal treatment. However, skipping the crown placement significantly increases the risk of future complications. These can include tooth fracture, reinfection, or even complete tooth loss – ultimately requiring more extensive and costly treatments.
A dental crown is an investment in the long-term health of your tooth. It completes the restoration process started by the root canal treatment, ensuring that your natural tooth continues to function properly for years to come. Our experienced team at Bayswater Dental Clinic is committed to providing you with the highest quality dental crowns, custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly and blend seamlessly with your smile.
Don’t leave your root canal treatment incomplete. Contact Bayswater Dental Clinic today to learn more about our dental crown options and how they can protect your newly treated tooth.