A root canal is a great way to save a tooth that has a deep infection. By cleaning out the germs inside, your dentist stops the pain and prevents you from losing the tooth.
However, once the inside of the tooth is cleaned out, it is no longer as strong as it was. Most people will need to visit a dental clinic near you to get a final fix.
Adding a protective cap is the best way to prevent your tooth from breaking. This second step is very important for keeping your smile healthy and making sure the tooth stays in your mouth for a long time.
Why Does the Tooth Get Weak?
During a root canal, the dentist removes the “pulp,” which contains the nerves and blood supply. While this stops the pain, it also means the tooth is no longer “alive” or getting nutrients. Over time, the tooth’s shell can become dry and brittle.
If you start looking for dental crowns near you, it is usually because you want to protect that weakened tooth.
Think of a crown as a tiny helmet. It covers the tooth and keeps it from cracking when you chew hard foods like apples or nuts.
How to Know if You Need a Cap
Not every tooth needs a cap after a root canal, but most back teeth do because they do the most challenging work. Here are some signs that a crown may be needed after a root canal to keep your tooth safe:
- Large Cavities: If the hole was massive before the root canal, there isn’t enough natural tooth left to hold a regular filling.
- Cracked Enamel: If you see tiny lines or cracks, a crown will hold the tooth together so it doesn’t split in half.
- Back Teeth: Molars handle all the heavy chewing, so they almost always need extra strength.
- Tooth Grinding: If you clench your jaw at night, the extra pressure can easily snap a tooth that has had a root canal.
The Perks of Getting a Crown
There are many benefits of getting a dental crown after root canal therapy that help your whole mouth. First, it acts as a permanent seal. A temporary filling can sometimes let germs leak back into the tooth, which causes another infection.
A crown locks those germs out for good. It also restores your tooth’s shape so you can eat comfortably and smile with confidence. It turns a fragile tooth back into a strong, functional one.
Picking the Right Material
When you get a restoration, you can choose from different materials. Different types of dental crowns are made to fit various needs and budgets.
Common Crown Materials
| Material Type | Primary Benefit | Best Use Case |
| Porcelain | Most natural appearance. | Front teeth visible in the “smile zone.” |
| Zirconia | Incredible strength and durability. | Back molars that handle heavy chewing. |
| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal | Combines a natural look with a strong base. | A versatile choice for most teeth. |
| Gold Alloys | Extremely long-lasting and gentle on bite. | Teeth at the very back of the mouth. |
How to Care for Your Restored Tooth
Keeping your new crown in top shape is the final step in saving your tooth. While the crown is made of tough materials, it still requires daily care to remain secure and functional for years to come.
- Practice Daily Cleaning: Brush twice a day and floss gently around the base of the crown to keep the gums healthy and prevent plaque buildup where the crown meets the tooth.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid biting on ice, pens, or hard candy, as these can chip or crack the porcelain surface of your new restoration.
- Don’t Use Teeth as Tools: Never use your crowned tooth to open packages or bite your nails, as the sideways pressure can loosen the bond or break the cap.
- Attend Regular Checkups: See your dentist twice a year so they can check that the seal is still tight and the crown is sitting perfectly in your bite.
Protect Your Smile Today
Finishing your dental work is the best way to keep your mouth pain-free. A root canal stops the ache, but the crown is what truly saves the tooth for the future. You deserve a smile that is both strong and beautiful.
At Bear Creek Dental, we want to help you finish your treatment so you don’t have to worry about your tooth again.
Our team will help you pick the right crown and make sure the process is easy and comfortable. Give us a call today to schedule your visit and keep your smile strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I wait to get my crown?
You should get it within a few weeks. If you wait too long, the tooth might crack so severely that it has to be pulled.
Will it hurt to get the crown put on?
No, because the nerve was removed during the root canal, you won’t feel any pain in that tooth.
Can I keep the temporary filling?
No, temporary fillings are meant to be weak and will eventually fall out or allow germs to enter.
How long do crowns last?
If you take good care of them, most crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer.