Can You Need a Root Canal Under a Crown?
Root canals and crowns are two common dental procedures that many people have undergone at some point in their lives. While these treatments are often performed separately, there are instances where a root canal may be necessary under a crown. In this article, we will explore the reasons why you might need a root canal under a crown and what it entails.
Understanding Root Canals and Crowns
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and discomfort. To save the tooth, the infected pulp is removed, and the root canal is then filled and sealed.
A dental crown, on the other hand, is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are often used to protect weak teeth, cover dental implants, or improve the appearance of a tooth.
Why Would You Need a Root Canal Under a Crown?
There are several reasons why you might need a root canal under a crown:
1. Infection: If the tooth had an infection before the crown was placed, the infection may have spread to the pulp even after the crown was installed. In this case, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and prevent further damage.
2. Tooth Sensitivity: Sometimes, a tooth may become sensitive after a crown is placed due to the crown not fitting properly or due to the tooth’s nerve being exposed. A root canal can help alleviate the sensitivity by removing the nerve.
3. Cracked Tooth: If the tooth is cracked and the crack extends into the pulp, a root canal may be required to save the tooth.
4. Previous Root Canal Failure: If a previous root canal treatment has failed, a new root canal may be necessary under the crown to address the issue.
What to Expect During the Procedure
If you need a root canal under a crown, the procedure will typically involve the following steps:
1. Dental X-rays: Your dentist will take X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth and determine if a root canal is necessary.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.
3. Accessing the Pulp: The dentist will create an opening in the crown to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
4. Cleaning and Filling: The infected pulp will be removed, and the root canals will be cleaned and filled with a biocompatible material.
5. Sealing and Crown Placement: Once the root canal is complete, the opening will be sealed, and the crown will be re-placed or a new crown will be made and placed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is not common, you can indeed need a root canal under a crown. This situation can arise due to various reasons, such as infection, sensitivity, or a cracked tooth. If you experience any dental pain or discomfort after receiving a crown, it is essential to consult with your dentist to determine if a root canal is necessary. Early intervention can help save the tooth and prevent further complications.
