Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?

Often, especially for molars and premolars. A root-treated tooth is more fragile and may fracture. A crown protects it; the dentist assesses what suits your tooth.

Root canal treatment

A root-treated tooth is no longer nourished from the inside and has often lost a large part of its structure through decay and the treatment itself. It becomes more brittle, especially when it bears chewing forces.

For back teeth, a crown is frequently recommended to encase the tooth and spread the forces. When the loss of tooth structure is limited, a partial restoration, such as an inlay or an onlay, may be enough.

For front teeth, which bear less load, a simple filling is sometimes suitable. However, a root-treated tooth can darken over time, which may lead to considering a crown or a veneer for cosmetic reasons.

It is better not to wait too long between the end of root canal treatment and the final restoration: a fracture during this period can jeopardise keeping the tooth.

This is a general answer. Only a consultation at the practice can tell what suits your situation.

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