In most cases a dental crown is placed over a tooth following a root canal. The purpose of the crown is to protect the tooth and root from damage or infection. But in some cases a tooth may be sealed with a filling after a root canal instead of placing a crown.
Will the tooth last as long without a crown? Is it better to get a crown placed over the tooth following a root canal? Learn the answers to these questions and more.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to treat an infected or at-risk tooth. The dental pulp is removed in order to eliminate infected tissue, or to prevent an infection from developing due to a deep cavity or a cracked tooth. The root canal is flushed out and disinfected, then filled with a replacement material that is resistant to infection. In some cases a dental crown is placed over the tooth after a root canal and in other cases a filling is used to seal the tooth.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth. A crown may be made of porcelain to resemble natural tooth enamel, or various types of metal for strength or to achieve a specific type of look. Before a crown is placed, the tooth is reduced in size to make room for the crown to fit over the remaining tooth and root material.
Average Life Expectancy of a Tooth After Root Canal
- Without a crown: 1-5 years. A tooth that is sealed with a filling after a root canal may last no more than 5 years in many cases. With excellent care and dental hygiene, a tooth may last longer with just a filling, but the risk of reinfection or damage to the tooth is higher.
- With a crown: 15-20 years. If a crown is placed over the tooth after a root canal, it offers better protection and strength, allowing the tooth to exist in its restored state for much longer than it would without a crown.
Crown vs Filling: Factors To Consider
- Location and type of tooth. A front tooth that receives a root canal may be more likely to last with just a filling. But a molar that bears the brunt of the chewing force may need a crown to be adequately protected.
- Condition of the tooth. If the tooth has extensive damage or decay, there may not be enough tooth material left for a filling to be sufficient.
- Filling material. When high quality filling material is used during a root canal, the tooth may be strong enough to go without a crown.
- Oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day can help a tooth without a crown last longer.
- Dental care. Professional dental care on a regular schedule (every 6 months) will extend the life of all of your teeth, including those that have been treated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowns and Root Canals
Should I get a crown after a root canal?
Whether or not a crown is the best option for you will depend on your individual situation. You and your dentist can decide together which would be best for your dental health.
What are the risks of forgoing a crown?
By deciding not to get a crown there is a higher risk of needing retreatment, or that the tooth will be damaged beyond saving.
Learn More From Eagle Endodontics
If you’re in need of a root canal, Eagle Endodontics can provide top quality treatment and make a recommendation for the best restoration option. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.