Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal Treatment? Insights from a Root Canal Dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago
Having a dental crown put in is often the final step to complete a root canal treatment (RCT). However, many patients in these situations are intimidated by the RTC procedure — let alone the added stress of getting a dental crown — and wonder whether a dental crown is truly necessary. Although it may sound intimidating, it is sometimes the only option.
Are you wondering whether you need to have a dental crown put in to complete your root canal treatment? Wondering if there are any alternatives available? This root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago is going to explain below.
What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, is a somewhat common dental procedure today. It generally isn’t too painful, as patients will be given anesthesia. However, the area can feel a little sore after the treatment. RCT is a better alternative to an implant or tooth extraction. Your dentist might suggest it if the center portion of the tooth, called the pulp, is damaged or infected.
During the treatment, your root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago will start by cleaning the pulp from the infected tooth. This pulp must be removed to get rid of the infected blood vessels and nerves of the tooth to prevent further damage. In addition, when the pulp is removed, it kills the tooth, and only the shell will remain. Finally, the dentist will disinfect the tooth and seal it with a dental filling to keep anything from hindering the tooth structure.
Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
A dental crown, also known as a protective cap, is often used when an individual needs dental implants or bridges. This restorative treatment is sometimes necessary for patients with a history of grinding, or patients who have fractured a tooth.
A crown helps strengthen the tooth, as it is placed over the weak tooth to eliminate pain, discomfort, or problems with chewing. In many cases, if the dentist doesn’t seal the tooth with a dental crown, the tooth can split open or break. When that happens, the damage can be severe.
In situations where individuals are undergoing a root canal treatment due to tooth fracture, a dental crown will need to be placed over the tooth — especially if it is a premolar, molar, or any other grinding tooth. These teeth require strength, which can be only achieved with a dental crown.
However, not all situations are the same — the ideal treatment will vary from case to case. Your root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago might suggest leaving the tooth with just the filling, which could be the only restoration that needs to be performed. But if your dentist believes a crown may be best for your situation, it is something you’ll want to take seriously — it may be necessary to help your tooth function correctly.
Speak To a Specialist to Discuss Alternatives
Dental crowns can be expensive, but they are necessary in many cases. If you want to find out whether there are other alternatives available, you can always speak to a specialist. In certain situations, you may be able to find a cost-effective and less invasive procedure that can efficiently replace a crown. Some popular choices include porcelain onlays, provisional crowns, and in-office lab resin crowns. However, regardless of the route you decide to go, it’s important to make sure you find an experienced and knowledgeable root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago to perform the work.
Looking For a Root Canal Dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago?
When performed by a specialist, a root canal treatment has a 95% success rate. Do you have any questions or concerns about root canals? Want to find out whether a dental crown is necessary in your situation? If so, and if you would like to speak to the most trusted root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago, do not hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Gordon J. Ziols and the team at Smile Innovations. Contact us today at (773) 763-1000 to schedule a consultation.