A tooth post, sometimes called a dental post, is a small, rod-like structure placed within the root canal of a tooth. Its primary function is to provide retention for a core buildup material. This core buildup then serves as a stable foundation for a dental crown, which restores the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance. Posts are used when a tooth has lost significant natural structure due to dental treatments.
Why a Tooth Post is Used
A tooth post becomes necessary when a tooth has been significantly weakened due to extensive decay, injury, or large cavities. This often occurs after a root canal procedure, where the infected or damaged pulp is removed, leaving the tooth with insufficient natural structure to support a crown.
The post itself does not strengthen the tooth’s root or prevent fractures; rather, it offers mechanical retention for the restorative material. Without adequate remaining tooth structure, a crown might not have enough surface to bond to, potentially leading to restoration failure. The post helps ensure the crown’s stability and durability, allowing the tooth to regain its functionality.
Types of Tooth Posts
Tooth posts are categorized primarily by their material and design, with two main types being prefabricated and custom-cast. Prefabricated posts are mass-produced in standard sizes and shapes, offering convenience and reducing procedure time. These often include fiber posts, made from materials like carbon or glass fibers, which provide good flexibility and can absorb stress similar to natural tooth structure.
Other prefabricated options include stainless steel and titanium posts, known for their strength and rigidity. Custom-cast posts, conversely, are individually made to precisely fit the unique anatomy of a patient’s root canal space. This involves taking an impression of the root, creating a mold, and then fabricating a post, often from metal alloys, which offers a highly precise fit and strong retention.
The Tooth Post Procedure
The placement of a tooth post and core begins after a root canal treatment has been completed. The dentist first prepares the root canal space by removing a portion of the gutta-percha filling material to create a channel for the post. This preparation ensures enough space for the post while leaving sufficient root canal filling to maintain the seal at the root tip.
Next, the selected post, either prefabricated or custom-made, is carefully inserted into the prepared root canal space. It is then bonded in place using a dental adhesive, such as a resin cement, for strong retention within the root. Following post placement, a core buildup material, often a composite resin, is applied around the exposed part of the post and the remaining tooth structure. This core material is shaped to resemble the natural tooth, providing a stable foundation for the final crown. The tooth is then prepared by shaping the core and remaining tooth structure to accommodate the dental crown, ensuring a proper fit and bite.
Important Considerations After a Tooth Post
After a tooth post and core are placed, the final crown is an integral part of the restoration, protecting the treated tooth from fracture and restoring its function. Without a crown, the weakened tooth remains susceptible to damage.
Potential complications, while uncommon, can include root fracture, which might occur if the post is too wide or if excessive force is applied to the tooth. Dislodgement of the post or core can also happen, requiring re-treatment. Not every tooth that undergoes a root canal requires a post; the decision depends on the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure. With proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a tooth restored with a post and crown can function effectively for many years.