Quick Summary
Root canal therapy treats the inside of the tooth; the final step is a permanent restoration that protects it and restores its form and function. This should be done within one month of the root canal to reduce the risk of re-infection or breakage. A tooth-coloured filling may be enough for a small cavity in a front tooth, but a crown is often recommended because treated teeth can be weakened.
Root canal therapy addresses the tooth’s interior. A crucial final step is placing a permanent restoration to protect the tooth and restore its full form and function. This should be done within one month of the root canal to minimize the risk of re-infection or tooth breakage. A permanent restoration significantly improves the long-term success of the root canal by preventing leakage and fractures.
The best type of restoration—either a filling or a crown—depends on the treated tooth’s condition and the amount of lost tooth structure. For small cavities in front teeth with minimal structural loss, a tooth-colored filling may suffice after the root canal.
However, a dental crown is often the recommended restoration for a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy. Because these teeth can be weakened, a crown offers superior protection against bacterial contamination and fracture. Fabricated in a lab and custom-fitted, crowns can be made of porcelain, metal, or a combination. Suitable for both front and back teeth, crowns are particularly important for molars that endure significant chewing pressure.
Restoring a root canal-treated tooth with a crown or permanent filling is essential for the treatment’s long-term success. If you experience symptoms of a damaged or diseased tooth, a timely root canal and appropriate restoration can preserve the tooth and its function for many years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after a root canal do I need the restoration?
The permanent restoration should be placed within one month of the root canal, to minimise the risk of re-infection or tooth breakage. A permanent restoration significantly improves the long-term success of the root canal by preventing leakage and fractures.
Will I need a crown or a filling?
It depends on the treated tooth's condition and how much tooth structure was lost. For small cavities in front teeth with minimal structural loss, a tooth-coloured filling may be enough. A crown is often recommended because teeth that have had a root canal can be weakened, and a crown offers better protection against bacterial contamination and fracture.
Why do molars usually need a crown?
Crowns are particularly important for molars because they endure significant chewing pressure. Crowns are fabricated in a lab, custom-fitted, and can be made of porcelain, metal or a combination.
Merry Dental, 337 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821. 978-404-5400. Serving Billerica, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Burlington and Bedford.