Dental Crown After Root Canal Treatment: What Happens Next?

Why do you need a crown after a root canal?

A root canal addresses the infection within the tooth, however, it does not repair the tooth structure itself.

A crown acts as a cap over the damaged tooth to ensure that it is protected and able to withstand biting forces (particularly important for back teeth).

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

It depends on how much of the tooth remains if the tooth was decayed beyond repair, a root canal would not be possible and the position of the tooth. Front teeth typically experience less force when biting compared to back teeth. It is down to your dentist to decide if a crown is required based on how much of your natural tooth remains

What happens at the crown appointment?

The crowned tooth is contoured so that the crown fits on it correctly. Impressions or a digital scan are taken so that your crown can be created. When your permanent crown is fitted, your dentist will check that it fits comfortably and that your bite is correct as a crown that is too high can be uncomfortable to bite with. A crown that is too high can be adjusted to a comfortable bite.

What can I eat with a crown?

You can eat what you normally eat with a crown, assuming that everything is fitted correctly and you are comfortable. That being said, you should take care when eating with a new crown or a temporary crown. Your mouth can take some time to adjust to a crown, so common sense should be used with particularly hard foods.

If you have a temporary crown, you should be careful not to pull on sticky foods that could dislodge it. If you find that your bite is uncomfortable with your permanent crown you should see your dentist, as a minor adjustment can often make all the difference.

How long does a crown last after a root canal?

With the correct care a crown can last many years, however, crowns are not indestructable. They may be damaged by excessive grinding or poor oral hygiene plaque can build up along the crown and irritate the gums, and decay can occur at the root of the tooth if plaque is not removed. Like your natural teeth, crowned teeth should be cleaned twice daily and flossed regularly.

Looking after a crowned tooth

If you have a crown, take special care to clean around the base of the crown and your gums. Decay on adjacent teeth and gums can spread to the crowned tooth. A crown should also not be left to wobble loose or crack, as this could cause an unsightly and potentially expensive emergency.

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