A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, cleaning and sealing its interior to save the natural tooth. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its form, function, and appearance. Crowns provide a protective barrier over the treated tooth.
Why a Crown is Needed After Root Canal
A crown is a necessary restoration after a root canal due to changes in the tooth’s structure. Removing the infected pulp can affect the tooth’s internal hydration, potentially making it more brittle. The procedure also requires creating an access cavity, which compromises the tooth’s structural integrity.
Often, the tooth’s strength is already diminished due to decay or damage that necessitated the treatment. A crown reinforces the weakened tooth, protecting it from fracture and restoring its ability to withstand chewing forces. This protective cap helps maintain the tooth’s long-term health and functionality.
What Happens if Crown Placement is Delayed
Delaying permanent crown placement after a root canal can lead to several complications. The treated tooth, without a crown’s full protection, is more susceptible to fracture. This vulnerability is heightened by daily chewing forces, especially for molars and premolars. A severe fracture can make the tooth unsalvageable, potentially leading to extraction.
Another significant risk is re-infection of the root canal system. The temporary filling is not designed for long-term use and can degrade, crack, or dislodge. This allows bacteria to re-enter the treated tooth, potentially causing a new infection. Re-infection might necessitate a second root canal treatment or even extraction. Ignoring pain or sensitivity in the unprotected tooth can worsen the condition, possibly leading to an abscess.
Protecting Your Tooth While You Wait
If permanent crown placement is unavoidably delayed, certain precautions can help protect the treated tooth. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the temporary filling. This minimizes stress on the tooth and reduces the risk of dislodging the temporary restoration or fracturing the tooth.
Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods is also advisable, as these can damage the temporary filling or the tooth itself. Maintain excellent oral hygiene around the temporary filling. Gently brush and floss the area to keep it clean, but be careful not to dislodge the temporary material.
If the temporary filling feels loose, falls out, or if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or a bad taste, contact your dentist promptly. These could be signs of a problem requiring immediate attention.
When to Get Your Crown
Dentists generally recommend placing the permanent crown as soon as feasible after a root canal. While specific timelines vary, many dentists suggest crown placement within a few weeks, typically between 14 to 30 days, after the root canal procedure. This timeframe allows for initial healing and sensitivity to subside.
Several factors influence the ideal timing for crown placement. The tooth’s location plays a role; molars and premolars, which endure significant chewing forces, often need crowns sooner than front teeth. The amount of remaining tooth structure after the root canal also affects the decision, with more compromised teeth requiring quicker protection. The dentist’s assessment of the tooth’s condition and the patient’s individual healing response guide the specific recommendation for crown placement.