A root canal saves your tooth, but it does not always make it as strong as it was before. After your root canal treatment is complete, your dentist in Saskatoon will likely recommend a crown to protect your tooth. Understanding why this extra step is important helps you make the right decision about your dental care. A crown is not just cosmetic—it is a necessary protection that keeps your treated tooth functional and healthy for many years.
Why Does a Root Canal Weaken Your Tooth?
During a root canal, your dentist removes the infected nerve tissue from inside your tooth. This saves the tooth from extraction, which is great news. But the process does change the tooth’s structure.
The Tooth Becomes Brittle
When the nerve and blood vessels are removed, the tooth loses some of its moisture and flexibility. Over time, the tooth becomes more fragile and brittle — similar to how wood dries out and becomes easier to break.
The Tooth Is Hollowed Out
The interior space where the nerve sat is now empty. Even though it is filled with special material, the tooth is no longer solid all the way through. This makes it more prone to cracking under pressure.
Chewing Pressure Causes Damage
While you chew, there’s tremendous pressure on your back teeth. A fragile tooth could quite simply shatter or splinter during this process. The crack could even reach the root of your tooth and result in total failure.
Why a Crown Protects Your Tooth
Dental crowns in Saskatoon are a cap that covers your entire tooth. It does several important things for a tooth that has had root canal treatment.
It Holds the Tooth Together
A crown wraps around your tooth and holds it intact. It prevents cracks from forming and spreading. This is especially important for a dental crown for back tooth after root canal situations, where chewing pressure is greatest.
It Restores Strength
The crown becomes the outer structure of your tooth. It takes the pressure from chewing off the weakened tooth underneath. This allows you to eat normally without fear of damaging your tooth.
It Prevents Reinfection
A crown seals your tooth completely. It prevents bacteria from getting inside and reinfecting the area where your root canal was done. This protects your investment in the root canal treatment.
Root Canal Crown Procedure Explained
Getting a crown after a root canal is straightforward and follows a clear process.
Your dental clinic in Saskatoon will first prepare your tooth. The dentist shapes it so a crown can fit properly over it. Then they take an impression or digital scan of your tooth. This is sent to a lab where your custom crown is made.
While waiting for your crown, a temporary crown protects your tooth. Once your permanent crown arrives — usually within one to two weeks — the dentist removes the temporary crown and bonds the permanent one in place.
Signs You Need a Crown After Root Canal Treatment
Most dentists recommend a crown for any tooth that has had root canal treatment. However, certain situations make it even more important.
- Your tooth is a back tooth that bears heavy chewing pressure
- Your tooth already has a large filling
- Your tooth is visibly discoloured or damaged
- Your tooth had a large cavity before the root canal
Caring for Your Crowned Tooth
Once your crown is placed, care is simple. Brush and floss like you normally would. Avoid chewing on very hard objects like ice or hard candies. Your crowned tooth can last many years — often 10 to 15 years or more — with normal care and regular check-ups.
Protect Your Investment in Your Tooth
A root canal is successful only if your tooth stays protected afterward. A crown ensures that all the work done during your root canal treatment is preserved. Without a crown, your treated tooth is at risk of failure.
Lakewood Dental Clinic can help you understand why all of these steps are necessary for your dental care. With quality professional assistance and knowledge, we can help you achieve healthy and strong teeth. Schedule an appointment with us and ensure your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I do not want a crown on the tooth and leave it with its existing condition after a root canal?
You technically can. However, most of the teeth that do not have a crown will not last long and will fail within 5-10 years. A crown on the tooth is a very important protective covering for your tooth for the future.
How long after a root canal should I get a crown?
Most dentists recommend getting a crown as soon as possible — ideally within two to four weeks — to protect your treated tooth right away.
Will my crown feel like a natural tooth?
Yes—once you adjust to it, a properly fitted crown feels and functions just like a natural tooth. You can eat and speak normally.
How much does a crown cost?
Crown costs vary depending on the material and your location, but they typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Ask your dentist for a specific estimate.