Can a Dental Crown Protect a Root Canal Tooth?

Yes. A crown can protect the tooth after root canal, and in many cases this is exactly why a crown is recommended. A root canal cleanses the inside of the tooth and leaves it in your mouth, but by the time the procedure is completed the tooth has generally lost significant structure from its interior.

Why a Root Canal Tooth Needs Protection

While the popular belief is that a root canal makes a tooth weak, the bigger concern is usually the damage to the tooth which caused the root canal to happen in the first place. The decay of a tooth with a root canal is often extensive. Then, the dentist must open up the tooth to clean and seal the roots.

What the Crown Actually Does

Which is why crowns are especially helpful for back molars. They help protect the tooth which takes the brunt of the chewing force during eating. A crown provides much better resistance to cracks during everyday use.

• Reduces direct pressure on weakened tooth structure, especially helpful for areas where significant tooth material has been removed.

• A properly fitted crown covers over the chewing surfaces, helping to resist normal chewing pressures without exposing the damaged tooth structure.

• Does not offer protection against damage due to biting hard objects or teeth grinding.

Does a Crown Prevent Another Problem?

It can greatly reduce the risk of the restored tooth cracking, but it cannot prevent every possible problem. A crown protects the outside of the tooth, while the root canal deals with the interior. Both are important.

If bacteria invades underneath a poorly sealed crown, decay can still occur around the edges of the remaining tooth. Cracks can also occur if the underlying tooth is stressed. Brushing and cleaning around the crown still play an important role in maintaining a root canal treated tooth, even with a crown on.

What Happens If You Don’t Get One?

It depends on the tooth and the amount of structural material left on it. Front teeth can sometimes get away with not having a crown on them because they are not used for chewing as much as the back molars are.

The dentist has to consider how much of the tooth is left and where the tooth is located in your mouth before recommending any kind of restoration.

How Long Can the Protection Last?

As long as the tooth underneath is not damaged and the crown is well maintained, a properly installed crown can last for many years. How long it can last depends on how you chew and clean your teeth, as well as if you have a habit of grinding your teeth.

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