A tooth with a dental crown can still experience tooth decay if not taken care of or flossed correctly. Root canal procedures are necessary to alleviate pain and protect a tooth from further damage or infection. Dental crowns are generally the final step in most root canal treatments. However, when is it necessary, and why would a patient need both a root canal and crown? At Knight Dental Care, Dr. Edward Knight can explain why you need a root canal with a dental crown in Midland, MI. Read on to learn more about dental crowns and when a root canal may be necessary from our Knight Dental Care team.

What is a root canal and crown?

Decayed or injured teeth are generally fixed with a tooth-colored filling or another type of restorative treatment. However, when bacteria invade the center of the tooth or pulp, root canal therapy may be necessary to prevent the risk of tooth loss and improve oral function. Generally, when Midland, MI patients need a root canal, the next step is a dental crown. For root canal and crown treatment, Dr. Knight will make a small hole on the tooth’s surface. He will remove all the infected pulp before cleaning the inner structure to ensure no damaged tissue is left behind, and seal it with a crown.

When would a restored tooth need a dental crown?

Front teeth generally won’t need a dental crown after a root canal. However, back teeth or molars endure more bite force when chewing and need extra support. Other factors that determine if a root canal with crown is necessary are:

  • Patients who grind their teeth, or have a condition known as bruxism, will need a dental crown following a root canal.
  • Teeth with previous damage are more susceptible to breakage after root canal therapy. A dental crown can help prevent tooth loss if the structural integrity has been compromised.
  • A root canal with a crown may be necessary to restore a person’s oral health. If the tooth decay severity has led to a root canal, then considering a dental crown as the final step may be needed to preserve your tooth and the teeth surrounding it.

When is a root canal with crown replacement the right option?

While root canal therapy saves the tooth from further infection, it doesn’t prevent it from weakening. A root canal weakens the inner structure, coupled with an infection, by reducing the amount of tissue or pulp within it. To stop the tooth from disintegrating, Dr. Knight may recommend a root canal with crown restoration. A dental crown is needed after a root canal treatment when:

  • Tooth sensitivity after the infected pulp is removed. In some cases, the tooth may be sensitive to cold, heat, pressure, and more afterward. A dental crown covers the tooth and protects it from this occurring.
  • For cosmetic reasons, a root canal with a crown may be necessary to cover any discoloration caused by tooth decay and treatment.
  • When a large amount of tooth pulp is removed during root canal therapy, it can weaken the tooth. With daily wear and tear from biting and chewing, it can leave a tooth at risk of breaking or falling apart. A dental crown will cover the tooth and reinforce its outer structure.
  • A root canal with the crown will prevent future infections from occurring after a tooth has been restored, as long as it is appropriately cared for at home with daily brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits will allow Dr. Knight to check on any dental crown restorations to ensure they have not failed or become damaged.

In the end, it will be determined if a root canal followed by a dental crown procedure is necessary depending on the tooth’s condition, location, and the severity of infection. Dr. Knight will develop a restorative dentistry plan and come up with a good solution for optimal results. If you are experiencing mouth discomfort or tooth pain, contact Knight Dental Care in Midland, MI and schedule a dental exam with Dr. Edward Knight today.