Root canals can save teeth that would have otherwise needed to be removed. However, it also changes the tooth in some pretty important ways. Once the infected pulp is removed, the tooth no longer receives the same internal nourishment. Over time, this can make the tooth more brittle and vulnerable to cracking, even if it feels fine at first.
That’s why you’ll find that your Logan dentist will often recommend placing a crown on a tooth after a root canal treatment. The goal here isn’t cosmetic. It’s about protecting the tooth from forces it may not be able to handle anymore on its own.
If you don’t get a crown, the root canal-treated tooth is exposed to everyday pressures from biting and chewing. Even normal use can lead to fractures, especially in the back teeth that handle most of this workload. In many cases, those cracks won’t be visible and won’t cause you immediate pain, but once the cracks spread, the damage can be severe enough to require a tooth extraction.
Fillings alone can possibly restore the surface, but won’t reinforce the actual structure of the teeth. Over time, the risk of the tooth breaking increases. This can happen years after the root canal treatment.
Dental crowns work like protective little shells. They cover the entire tooth and distribute your bite force more evenly. Instead of the pressure concentrating on your weakened areas, the crown absorbs that pressure and redirects the stress. Stability like this can improve the long term success of a root canal treatment.
It’s also important to note that modern crowns look more natural while providing this durable level of protection. When they’re properly fitted, you can chew more comfortably and confidently and won’t have the constant worry about your tooth failing.
Placing a crown after root canal treatment isn’t about a race to the finish line. It’s more about thinking ahead. Teeth that are protected earlier on tend to last a lot longer and require fewer repairs down the line. Delaying a crown can limit your options if the cracks or damage are left too long.
For many patients, especially those over 50, long-term dental planning focuses on preserving the teeth’s function and avoiding repeat procedures. Crowns help ensure your investment continues to pay off.
So, look at it this way. The root canal treatment saves the tooth, and the crown helps keep it that way. Together, you’ll find longer-term success, comfort, stability, and confidence.
