Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dental procedures. They offer a variety of benefits as crowns can improve teeth that are damaged, weakened, or decayed. Crowns can improve the appearance and function of your tooth as they are shaped and color-matched to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth. Depending on the state of your teeth, you may need to take some preparatory measures. Many patients ask, is a root canal needed before a crown?
Is a Root Canal Needed Before a Crown?
In some cases, a root canal is necessary before getting a crown. However, this is not always the case. A dental crown involves the placement of a cap over your tooth. This can improve the appearance of your tooth and protect it. While a root canal is not a prerequisite for a dental crown, it can be necessary in order to ensure the longevity of your oral health. This is because a crown can protect your tooth, but it cannot address inflammation or an infected tooth. If a tooth has decay, damage, inflammation, or is infected, a root canal is often necessary. A dental crown is effective in protecting your tooth once the dental health issues have been resolved.
Root Canal and Dental Crown Treatment
For patients who have underlying issues with their tooth, root canal therapy is necessary. Addressing the underlying issue benefits your long-term oral health and the longevity of your dental crown. A root canal involves the removal of infected or inflamed pulp. The pulp is the innermost portion of your tooth and it is filled with nerves, blood vessels, and other connective tissues. A root canal removes the pulp of your teeth, but preserves the rest of your tooth.
Root canals and dental crowns are commonly combined as they preserve and protect your long-term oral health. After the root canal your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This is because it can improve the strength and function of your tooth. Impressions of your tooth are taken and a custom-made crown is created to blend in with your natural teeth. Combining the treatments can improve the health, function, and appearance of your tooth.
Dental Crowns and Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental crowns are an effective restorative dentistry treatment. However, dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of your smile as they are an effective cosmetic dentistry treatment. Consider the following ways dental crowns can be used to improve the appearance of your smile.
- Discoloration: Crowns can improve severely stained and discolored teeth. They essentially cover the stained tooth and are colored matched to blend in with the rest of your teeth.
- Chips or Cracks: Due to the natural wear and tear that impacts your teeth, chips and cracks are common dental issues. Dental crowns are an effective way to address the issue as they can restore the function and appearance of your tooth.
- Misshapen Teeth: Some of your teeth may not look uniform in terms of their shape and size. A dental crown can be customized to improve the size and shape of your tooth.
- Gaps: Gaps in your teeth can impact the appearance of your smile and be distracting. Dental crowns can be sized to close gaps in your teeth and improve the look of your teeth.
Office for Cosmetic Dentistry
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, consider dental crowns. Monte Vista Dental Group is the top office for cosmetic dentistry. The team has helped countless patients improve their smile and restore their oral health. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment!