Dental Issues: Should You Crown a Root-Canaled Tooth?

The front tooth has a deep cavity?

Hello! I would like to ask about my situation.
I have had a deep cavity in one of my front teeth for several years, which required a root canal treatment.
Recently, another front tooth started to hurt when I ate something cold, so I went to see a dentist.
The dentist mentioned that the previous filling might not have been done properly or that there could be decay adjacent to it.
They first cleaned out the cavity and placed a temporary filling, advising me to observe it for a month.
If there are no issues, they will proceed with a permanent filling; if there are problems, I may need another root canal treatment.
The dentist also suggested that I should get a crown for the tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, as I was previously unaware of this.

I would like to know if, after a month, when I get the permanent filling for the tooth, it is advisable to place a crown on the tooth that has had a root canal? It feels hollow and has a shadowy appearance, which makes it look unattractive.
Is this due to the previous inadequate filling, or could there be other issues? Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/13

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Anonymous,
Hello! Should the tooth that has undergone root canal treatment get a crown? It is best to have one made! Otherwise, you will need to eat softer foods to avoid breaking it! Cavities are primarily caused by acids and bacteria! It is essential to brush your teeth very thoroughly! Please make an effort! Communicate more with your dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2017/03/13

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed question regarding dental issues, particularly about whether to crown a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment.
When a tooth has had a root canal, it means that the nerve and pulp have been removed due to infection or decay. While this procedure can save the tooth, it often leaves the tooth more vulnerable to fractures and further decay because the tooth structure is compromised. This is especially true for teeth that are subject to significant biting forces, such as molars and premolars, but can also apply to anterior teeth like incisors.

In your case, since you mentioned that one of your front teeth has been root-canaled and is now showing signs of potential issues (like pain when consuming cold items), it is crucial to address these concerns promptly. The fact that your dentist has suggested placing a crown on the root-canaled tooth is a common recommendation. Crowning the tooth serves several purposes:
1. Protection: A crown provides a protective covering over the tooth, which helps prevent fractures. Since root-canaled teeth can become brittle, a crown can help maintain the structural integrity of the tooth.

2. Restoration of Function: A crown can restore the tooth's function, allowing you to bite and chew without discomfort. This is particularly important for teeth that are used frequently in chewing.

3. Aesthetic Improvement: If the tooth appears discolored or has an "empty" look due to previous treatments, a crown can improve the appearance, making it look more natural and aesthetically pleasing.

4. Preventing Further Decay: By covering the tooth, a crown can help prevent bacteria from entering the tooth structure, which could lead to further decay or infection.

Regarding your concern about the "shadow" or "empty" feeling you have noticed, this could be due to the loss of tooth structure from the previous decay or the root canal treatment itself. If the tooth was not properly restored after the root canal, it could lead to further issues, including the potential for new decay around the edges of the filling or crown.

If your dentist has advised you to observe the tooth for a month and then reassess, it is essential to follow up as recommended. If there are no signs of further decay or infection, placing a crown on the tooth would be advisable. However, if there are any signs of ongoing issues, such as pain or swelling, further treatment may be necessary, which could include retreating the root canal or even extraction in severe cases.

In summary, yes, it is generally recommended to crown a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, especially if it has been compromised in any way. This will help protect the tooth, restore its function, and improve its appearance. Always ensure to have open communication with your dentist about your concerns and treatment options, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific dental health needs.
If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to ask!

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