Will I Need a Crown After My Root Canal?

Across the United States, dentists and endodontists (specialists in tooth restoration) perform around 15 million root canals every year. 

Here at Fremaux Dental Care’s offices in Slidell, Louisiana, we offer root canal treatment to preserve infected teeth and avoid extractions. However, this restorative procedure often raises a question: Is a crown necessary after a root canal?

While the answer depends to an extent on the condition of the treated tooth, crowns are frequently the preferred choice for ensuring long-term success and functionality.

Why a crown matters after a root canal

Crowns perform several important functions, including:

Reinforcing tooth structure 

A root canal removes the pulp from your tooth, which can weaken it. Without its pulp, the tooth becomes more brittle and prone to fractures. A crown restores structural integrity, preventing damage and allowing the tooth to function normally. 

Protecting against fractures 

Teeth treated with root canals become more vulnerable to cracks and fractures. A crown acts like armor, shielding the tooth from external forces and reducing the likelihood of damage. 

Restoring functionality 

A crown restores the natural shape and function of the tooth, enabling proper biting and chewing. This prevents misalignment, discomfort, and additional dental issues caused by an uneven bite. 

Enhancing aesthetics 

Modern crowns blend seamlessly with your own teeth, ensuring a polished, natural look. This is especially valuable for teeth that are visible when you smile, combining functional support with aesthetic appeal. 

While crowns do improve appearance, their primary purpose lies in providing structural support and restoring function. The aesthetic benefits are a valuable bonus. 

Could I get a filling instead of a crown?

Fillings generally form part of the root canal procedure. After removing infected material from the tooth, our dentists clean the space and fill it, then seal the top. 

An uncrowned filling or inlays may suit some restorations. However, they don’t offer the same level of protection as crowns. For example, front teeth with less structural damage may only need a filling, while back teeth often benefit from crowns due to the higher biting forces they endure. Our dentists recommend the best option based on each patient’s needs.

Some people believe that the root canal alone provides enough restoration, but without a crown, the treated tooth is more likely to incur damage. Others wonder if crowns weaken teeth. In fact, crowns strengthen teeth by protecting their structure and reducing stress.

Although a tooth that’s undergone a root canal can survive without a crown, it becomes significantly more vulnerable to fractures and other complications. Studies show that teeth with fillings and crowns last an average of 20 years, while those with no restorations only last six and a half years

What to expect during crown placement

At Fremaux Dental Care, we recommend placing a crown shortly after completing the root canal because delaying the process increases the risk of damage to the treated tooth. The crown placement procedure involves four steps: 

1.      Preparation

Our dentists reshape the tooth to accommodate the crown. 

2.      Impressions

They take impressions to create a custom-fit crown. 

3.      Temporary crown

They fit a temporary crown to protect the tooth until the permanent one is ready. 

4.      Placement

When your permanent crown is ready, our dentists bond it to your tooth, completing the restoration. At Fremaux Dental Care, we offer CEREC® same-day crowns that may suit some patients.

Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience; any postprocedural discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

With proper care, crowns last many years. Regular dental checkups and proficient oral hygiene significantly increase their lifespan. 

A crown after a root canal provides essential protection, functionality, and durability for your restored tooth. While alternative options exist, crowns remain the gold standard, particularly for molars and teeth exposed to significant pressure. 

To protect your smile and maximize the benefits of your root canal, discuss crowns with our experienced dentists at Fremaux Dental Care. Call our office today or use the online inquiry form to schedule a consultation.