It is not always necessary to get a root canal when a dentist places a dental crown. These oral prosthetics, also known as caps, are used to protect the visible part of a person's teeth. Crowns are designed to look just like the tooth they are covering, making it very hard to detect when a person has one on a tooth.
The reason why there is a misconception around the need for a root canal prior to crown installation is because it is a common procedure. It is not a prerequisite, however, since there are many reasons a crown might be used that do not require a root canal. We will explore some of these later.
A root canal is a procedure performed to remove the soft tissues inside a tooth. It is usually done when a tooth has been infected or damaged to the point the contents of the pulp chamber are exposed to all the things in the mouth like bacteria.
An anesthetic is usually administered during the start of the procedure and the dentist drills a hole into the damaged tooth. Files of different widths are then used to extract the contents of the pulp chamber. Finally, the dentist applies to seal the hole. The tooth is sealed up with a rubber material and a crown is used to provide additional stability. In some cases, the dentist might decide to skip the crown and apply a composite to the tooth instead.
There is little pain involved with root canals despite the many misconceptions indicating otherwise.
Here are some common uses of dental crowns that are done without a root canal:
Nowadays, teeth whitening treatments are quite effective, but they do not eliminate all types of stains. Certain stains, like those caused by tooth decay or overexposure to fluoride, cannot be removed with whitening treatments. Crowns are often used in these instances to cover up the discolored tooth and improve the appearance of a patient's smile.
Some breaks and chips do not open up the pulp chamber and these do not require a root canal. Since the enamel is often broken off during such injuries, the tooth needs to be protected by a crown to prevent sensitivity. Once the crown has been installed, it will be virtually impossible to tell which tooth has been restored.
When a person opts for dental bridges as a tooth replacement option, the two teeth closest to the gap created by the missing teeth are usually fitted with crowns. This strengthens them, making them better anchors for the bridge.
Getting a root canal does not always require getting a crown and vice versa. Stop by our clinic and explore all your alternatives if you think you need either of these treatments.
Request an appointment here: https://thechesterfielddentist.com or call Chesterfield Dentist at (804) 412-0867 for an appointment in our Chester office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
If you have ever felt self-conscious about your teeth and considered seeing a cosmetic dentist, you are not alone. Americans spend thousands of dollars trying to enhance their smiles each year. However, for a truly transformative look that is also safe for your teeth, it is recommended that you see a cosmetic dentist.A cosmetic dentist…
If your teen needs teeth straightening, Invisalign® Teen is one potential option you can choose. The treatment has both benefits and drawbacks when compared to traditional braces.Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that can be used in place of traditional braces for straightening teeth. The Invisalign Teen treatment differs only slightly from the adult…
There are various options for straightening teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for this age group, as it is less obvious than traditional metal braces. Invisalign consists of clear trays that fit over the top and bottom rows of teeth. This straightening method has many benefits. However, not everyone is a good candidate.…
Invisalign® for teens refers to the clear plastic device worn to straighten teeth as an alternative to metal braces. Many people opt to wear these types of devices when they are in their teenage years, but they can be worn by adults as well. Invisalign has the added benefits of being removable and less noticeable…
If you have ever felt self-conscious about your teeth and considered seeing a cosmetic dentist, you are not alone. Americans spend thousands of dollars trying to enhance their smiles each year. However, for a truly transformative look that is also safe for your teeth, it is recommended that you see a cosmetic dentist.A cosmetic dentist…
If your teen needs teeth straightening, Invisalign® Teen is one potential option you can choose. The treatment has both benefits and drawbacks when compared to traditional braces.Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that can be used in place of traditional braces for straightening teeth. The Invisalign Teen treatment differs only slightly from the adult…