One common question that my patients ask me after undergoing root canal therapy is, “Doctor, should we go for a crown?”
The answer can be both YES and NO! Let me explain.
During root canal treatment, the damaged portions of the tooth are removed, including the nerves and blood vessels present in the tooth’s pulp. This makes the tooth non-vital, meaning it no longer has the natural vitality it once did. As a result, the tooth becomes brittle and is more prone to fractures. This is one of the main reasons why a crown is recommended after a root canal.
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Why Should You Get a Crown After Root Canal Treatment?
A crown serves a crucial role in protecting the tooth after root canal treatment. The tooth is left weaker, and without a crown, it may break or crack easily. A crown not only prevents further damage but also adds support when chewing hard foods. This can significantly increase the longevity of the tooth.
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How Long Should You Wait to Get a Crown After Root Canal?
The immediate answer is: No, you should not get a crown immediately after a root canal.
Root canal treatments can be either successful or fail for various reasons. I have seen many patients undergo crown placement immediately after their root canal procedure. However, this approach is not advisable. It’s important to give the root canal-treated tooth some time to heal and observe how it responds to the procedure.
Typically, I recommend waiting at least one week after the root canal before considering a crown. This waiting period allows both the dentist and the patient to monitor the tooth for any pain or complications. In many cases, pain after a root canal may occur but tends to subside within a few days. If the pain diminishes after 2 to 3 days, it’s usually safe to proceed with the crown.
However, if you experience persistent pain even after a week, it may indicate an issue with the root canal treatment itself, and getting a crown at this point is not advisable. Always consult your dentist to determine the next course of action.
How Much Does a Crown After Root Canal Cost?
The cost of a dental crown typically ranges from $500 to $1500, depending on the tooth’s location and the type of crown selected. The price can also vary based on the region and the dentist’s fees. It’s always a good idea to consult with your dentist about the exact cost of getting a crown after root canal treatment.
Does Getting a Crown Hurt After Root Canal?
No, getting a crown after a root canal does not hurt. Since the tooth is non-vital and has no nerves, there’s no pain involved in placing the crown. However, your dentist will still administer local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Conclusion: When to Get a Crown After Root Canal Treatment
In conclusion, I strongly recommend waiting at least one week after root canal treatment before considering crown placement. If you experience pain that subsides within 2 to 3 days, consult your dentist for the next steps regarding crown placement. However, if the pain continues after a week, placing a crown may not be the best decision.
It is always advisable to wait until the tooth is free from pain before proceeding with a crown. This ensures that the tooth is fully healed and there are no underlying issues.
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Also, for more insights on root canal treatments, you can visit Dentadigest.
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