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Is a Crown Always Necessary After a Root Canal?

While a crown is not always necessary after a root canal, it is often highly recommended to protect and strengthen the treated tooth. During a root canal procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed from inside the tooth, leaving it hollow and more susceptible to fractures and breakage. A dental crown, a custom-made cap that fits over the tooth, provides an added layer of durability and stability. It can restore the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance and help evenly distribute biting and chewing forces, reducing the risk of further damage. Without a crown, the tooth could become brittle over time and may eventually need to be extracted.

In some cases, if the tooth being treated is located in the front of the mouth and is less likely to endure extensive chewing forces, a filling might suffice. However, back teeth, like molars and premolars, typically bear the brunt of chewing and thus generally require a crown for added protection. 

Learn more about your root canal treatment options today by calling Greenwood Dental at (323) 471-0504!

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Why Is Your Dentist Recommending a Root Canal?

Your dentist may recommend a root canal because it's an effective way to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. The end goal of a root canal treatment is to let you retain your natural teeth even when you’re dealing with severe decay so that you don’t have to deal with implants or dentures. This treatment can relieve your pain and prevent further complications. 

You may need a root canal treatment to help you deal with: 

  • Persistent tooth pain: Continuous pain, whether sharp or dull, could indicate an infected tooth pulp.
  • Prolonged sensitivity: Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks might signal nerve damage inside the tooth.
  • Swollen or tender gums: Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth often points to an underlying infection.
  • Deep decay: Extensive cavities that reach the tooth’s inner pulp require more than just a standard filling.
  • Cracked or chipped teeth: Teeth that are damaged by cracks or chips can allow bacteria to enter, leading to infection.
  • Darkened teeth: A tooth that becomes discolored, often taking on a grey or black hue, may have dying nerves inside it.
  • Recurring pimples on gums: Small, pus-filled bumps on the gums can be a sign of an abscess, which needs prompt treatment.

Addressing these issues promptly with a root canal can save your natural tooth and restore your oral health efficiently.

If you need a root canal, Greenwood Dental is here to make the process as painless as possible. Patients in Montebello, Whittier, Pico Rivera, Commerce, and East Los Angeles can call (323) 471-0504 or contact us online to request a free consultation or book an appointment!

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