Can you get a root canal without a crown? Milton, ON dentist explains
It is a common perception that when you get root canal therapy, you must get a dental crown placed on top of the tooth after it has been treated. But is this really true? While this is true in many cases, particularly for the back teeth that are subjected to intense grinding and chewing forces, root canal treatment without a crown is possible in certain scenarios. The team at Scott and Derry Dental Care in Milton, ON will walk you through your options if you need root canal therapy and will advise you about the dental restoration that is best suited for your needs.
Why dental restorations are necessary after a root canal
At its core, root canal therapy is a treatment designed to save a very unhealthy tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. While root canal therapy is very good at serving this purpose, it does leave the tooth somewhat weakened because it no longer contains the normal amount of healthy tooth and pulp tissue that it did previously. In addition, to access the inner contents of the tooth, a small hole must be drilled into the outer enamel. Because of this, dental restorations such as dental crowns are often recommended to:
- Cover the small hole and restore the natural shape of the tooth
- Prevent the tooth from fracturing in half
- Reduce tooth sensitivity
- Protect it from further decay and bacterial infiltration
The back teeth (molars) must withstand powerful chewing and grinding forces, and therefore a more extensive dental restoration such as a dental crown is typically recommended for those type of teeth.
Call the cosmetic dentist trusted throughout the Milton, ON area - Scott and Derry Dental Care at
(855) 438-4999book your appointment
online. Every restorative treatment and cosmetic strategy is an individualized experience here.
Alternatives to dental crowns after root canal therapy
While dental crowns are commonly used, there are certain scenarios in which you do not necessarily need a dental crown after a root canal. The front teeth do not withstand as much pressure as the back teeth do, so in many cases a simple tooth-colored filling will suffice to protect and restore the tooth. If the tooth has become discolored due to disease or decay, however, patients may opt for a full dental crown for the best aesthetic results.
Whether you are experiencing dental pain or just need a routine check-up and cleaning, the team at Scott and Derry Dental Care is here to help! Call our Milton, ON office today at (855) 438-4999.
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