The root canal is a popular dental procedure frequently followed by implanting a dental crown. During this procedure, the diseased pulp inside the tooth is removed and replaced with a filling material. Typically, a root canal is performed to salvage a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed.
But what if your dentist suggests you undergo a root canal on a crowned tooth? Can you even do a root canal through an existing crown? This blog post is here to answer these questions and more. Keep reading to learn how root canals are done on crowned teeth, how you know you need a root canal in a crowned tooth, and why it’s essential. Get the answers to many such FAQs. Let’s begin.
5 Reasons Why a Root Canal on a Crowned Tooth Is Necessary
A crown is the ultimate protection of a tooth against infection. Nevertheless, a crowned tooth might still become infected, necessitating a root canal. It can occur for the following reasons:
- Bacteria Trapped Behind the Crown: Bacteria can become trapped beneath a dental crown over time, resulting in illness and needing a root canal with the crown.
- Delay installing a Crown After the Original Tooth Canal: If a tooth has had a root canal but has not been quickly capped, it becomes vulnerable to additional damage and infection, necessitating a root canal with a crown.
- Damaged Crown: A worn-down crown might expose the underlying tooth to infection when you need further treatment.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can cause gum disease and decay, harming the tooth beneath the crown.
- A Crown That Does Not Fit Correctly: If a crown does not fit properly, it might leave gaps or places where germs can gather, leading to infection and resulting in the need for a root canal procedure with a crown.
6 Signs That Your Crowned Tooth Might Need a Root Canal
Does your crown require a root canal? How do you know? Here’s how – if you notice the following symptoms in your crowned tooth or surrounding areas, there is a good chance of infection.
- Inflammation or Redness Around the Crown
- Swollen Gums and Face Surrounding the Crowned Tooth
- Persistent Discomfort or Sensitivity in the Crown-bearing Tooth
- A Dental Abscess (Pus-filled Pocket), Surrounding the Crowned Tooth
- Region Surrounding the Crowned Tooth Feeling Abnormally Warm When Touched
- Bad Breath or Odor That Cannot Be Traced to Other Reasons
However, it’s essential to consult your dentist before confirming anything.
What is the Root Canal Procedure With Crown?
With a few exceptions, root canals on crowned teeth are comparable to ordinary root canals. The crown must be removed initially by gently drilling through it or removing it to gain access to the affected tooth.
After removing the crown, the dentist performs the root canal operation, which includes cleaning out the diseased pulp and contouring the canals. Afterward, canals are filled with a biocompatible substance and sealed. Finally, depending on its state, the crown is reattached or replaced with a new one.
At Coral Dental Care, our experts are skilled in removing crowns before drilling into the tooth, allowing you to reuse the same crown. However, there are instances where we may need to drill an access hole through the crown. In such cases, getting a new crown to safeguard your root canal from infection would be necessary.
FAQs
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Why do I need a root canal on a crowned tooth?
Infection of the pulp within your tooth is generally caused by decay, a chipped or broken tooth, or a poorly fitted crown. If left untreated, this infection can cause discomfort and inflammation.
A root canal is required to resolve this issue. The infected pulp is removed during the treatment, and the tooth is cleansed and disinfected. It is then filled and sealed with gutta-percha. Following that, the tooth’s crown or filling can be replaced, or your current one can be fixed.
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How long does a root canal last with a crown?
The life span of a root canal with a crown can differ depending on the individual case. If the root canals are not adequately cleaned before being filled, there is a risk of reinfection of the pulp. Additionally, the materials used for filling the root canal and the type of crown used to protect it also impact the overall lifespan of the procedure.
Gold crowns tend to last longer than silver ones and are more durable than resin or amalgam ones.
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How much does a root canal cost on crowned teeth?
The cost of a root canal with a crown may vary depending on several factors. If you have a severe infection beneath a crowned tooth, the crown may need to be removed before the root canal treatment can be performed. Additionally, if your crowned tooth requires a root canal, it indicates a significant infection in the pulp, root, and canals, and there is a higher chance that the dental crown itself is infected.
In such cases, a comprehensive root canal treatment along with a new protective crown may be necessary to ensure your safety. The price can also be influenced by factors such as the crown’s material, the dental office’s location, the dentist’s experience, and other considerations.
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Why does tooth decay happen after a crown is placed to protect it?
Tooth decay can occur if you do not maintain good oral hygiene and allow plaque and germs to accumulate behind a dental crown. The biggest issue comes at the crown’s edge, where it meets the gum line, as this area is prone to deterioration. Although the crown is resistant to decay, the underlying tooth absorbs plaque and germs.
As a result, decay can spread swiftly beneath the crown. In extreme cases of decline, the tooth structure under the crown may be unable to shield the pulp from injury. In many cases, merely replacing the crown does not address the problem. Root canal treatment and a new crown are required to salvage the tooth.
Did you know that consulting your dentist and getting regular oral health check-ups can do wonders for your overall diagnosis and treatment? It’s true! If you’re in Salem, Massachusetts, or nearby, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to book your appointment, or call us at 978-607-0110. We’re here to help you achieve a healthier smile!
Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD, runs a successful dental practice in Salem, MA. Dr. Isaac strives for quality on a daily basis and this commitment to quality is reflected in her constant pursuit of advanced training. Her firm belief that even experts need to stay updated about what’s new in the dental field, enables her to provide every patient with optimal oral care. As the founder of Coral Dental Care, she is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for her patients and also to educating dental and non-dental community with her engaging articles on all things related to oral health, recent dental innovations, and latest treatment modalities.