Root Canal Treatment Without a Crown: How Long Will It Last?

To crown or not to crown? That is the question. We’re here to help you make the right decision for your tooth that has undergone root canal treatment.

Dental Crown After Root Canal Treatment

Many people consider getting root canal treatment for fast relief from toothache. Root canal treatment removes the nerve of a tooth and eliminates pain. Hence, is a crown really important after root canal treatment?

This article will discuss the risks you might face if you decide against getting a crown after root canal treatment. We’ll also explore how long root canal treatment lasts without a crown.

Further, we will also look at the cost of getting crowns and whether they’re necessary. Finally, we’ll share tips on maintaining your teeth after your root canal treatment.

What Is Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?

Your dentist may have suggested root canal treatment to save your tooth from extraction. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp, filling the canals, adding a post, and sealing it with a filling.

Finally, a crown is placed over the tooth to protect the tooth from breaking. However, some people skip this vital step due to financial concerns or a lack of understanding of its importance.

Getting a crown after your root canal treatment will decrease the possibility of tooth fracture. It may also enhance the overall look of your teeth.

What Are the Risks of Not Getting a Crown After Root Canal Treatment?

Skipping the crown after root canal treatment might not seem like a big deal. However, this comes with certain consequences. Moreover, these consequences can be severe.

These are some risks you might face when deciding not to get a dental crown. Some of these consequences can lead to tooth extraction, making the root canal treatment you underwent pointless.

How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Last Without a Crown?

The lifespan of a crownless root canal-treated tooth varies. Several factors determine its longevity without a crown. We have outlined some of them below.

#1. Size and location of the tooth: Our teeth’s anatomy and function determine the lifespan of a root canal-treated tooth without a crown. For example, our molars are meant for heavy-duty chewing when compared to our incisors. The root canal treatment can fail when a crown is absent to protect the tooth, especially in the case of a molar.

In addition, the pressure from biting and chewing with the molars can also damage any crownless root canal-treated teeth.

#2. Your oral hygiene: Your treated tooth’s lifespan depends on how you care for your oral health, like all your other teeth. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontitis, and even tooth loss.

#3. Your diet: Teeth become more susceptible to fracture after root canal treatment. A high-sugar and high-carbohydrate diet can also increase harmful bacteria in the mouth. This can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

#4. Your overall health: Your overall health is a factor in your tooth’s recovery from root canal treatment Your tooth may not fully recover if you have certain underlying conditions (i.e., diabetes). Additionally, certain medications (e.g., steroids) can also influence the success of your root canal treatment.

#5. Quality of dental work: An experienced dentist or endodontist will ensure the success and longevity of the results. On the contrary, an inexperienced dentist can jeopardize the health of your tooth.

#6. Your lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol and sugary drinks consumption, teeth grinding, etc., can influence the success of your root canal treatment. These unhealthy habits can delay the recovery of your tooth and even lead to infection and tooth loss.

These are the signs that your root canal treatment was not successful. Most of these can be prevented by getting a dental crown to protect the treated tooth.

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

A dental crown can cost from $1000 to $1800 in the US. We understand that skipping the crown after your root canal treatment seems like a good financial choice. However, you also have to consider the risks that come with it.

Your root canal treatment can fail without a dental crown, costing you more money in the long run. But you don’t have to worry about the cost. You can travel to Mexico to get your crowns for 50 to 70 percent less.

Check out the estimated differences between the costs in the US and Mexico below.

Root Canal Treatment and Dental Crowns Cost in Mexico
Getting a dental crown extends the lifespan of your root canal-treated tooth. You don’t need to worry about the cost of dental crowns with Dayo Dental’s preferred pricing. You can get high-quality dental crowns at a more affordable price.

TIP: Did you know? Sometimes, it’s quicker to get your crowns done in Mexico. You can do a day drive and cross the border to get your crowns if you live in states near the border.

Are Dental Crowns Necessary for Teeth with Root Canal Treatment?

Dental crowns ensure a 90-percent survival rate for root canal-treated teeth. Below are some fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy when you choose to have a crown placed after your root canal treatment.

#1. Stronger tooth. Your tooth will naturally feel fragile after a root canal treatment. A dental crown will act as armor for that tooth. It will prevent any possible tooth fracture.

#2. Lower risks of recontamination/infection. Placing a dental crown provides another layer of protection against infection. This also prevents recontamination with the bacteria in your mouth.

#3. Improved aesthetics. Your tooth may appear slightly gray or stained once the pulp is removed. A dental crown will restore the natural look and function of your tooth.

How Do I Take Care of and Maintain My Tooth that Has Had Root Canal Treatment?

Taking care of your treated tooth after root canal treatment will ensure that it remains functional and healthy. Here are some tips for maintaining your root canal-treated tooth for years.

#1. Get a dental crown: This will prevent the tooth from fracturing, increasing its lifespan. The benefits you’ll reap will far outweigh the costs you will pay.

#2. Practice proper oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and floss regularly. Use an antibacterial mouthwash as well. These will prevent plaque from developing and infecting your gums and teeth.

#3. Follow your dentist’s dietary recommendations: Your dentist will tell you if you need to avoid certain types of food. Make sure you follow these recommendations to avoid damaging your treated teeth.

#4. Regular check-ups with your dentist: Schedule a visit at least once every six months. This will help you monitor your treated tooth’s status and overall oral health.

#5. Wear a mouthguard: This will protect your treated tooth, especially if you clench or grind your teeth at night. A custom-fitted mouthguard will prevent damage to your tooth.

Getting a crown after root canal treatment is a worthwhile long-term investment despite the upfront cost. The benefits you’ll enjoy will outweigh the price.

Don’t forget to seek professional dental recommendations for root canal treatment and dental crowns. Call us today to book your free consultation with one of our trusted Mexico dentists to learn more about your treatment needs.

At Dayo Dental, we put your dental needs above all.

High-Quality Dental Work in Mexico Dayo Dental

References and Further Readings

Algadhi, A. A., Aljuman, A. S., Hummadi, A. M., Alqunfuthi, N. I., & Al Moaleem, M. M. (2021). Crown or not to Crown Root Canal Treated Teeth: Minireview. Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications, 14(2), 594–599.

Estrela, C., Holland, R., Estrela, C. R., Alencar, A. H., Sousa-Neto, M. D., & Pécora, J. D. (2014). Characterization of successful Root Canal treatment. Brazilian Dental Journal, 25(1), 3–11.

Hellyer, P. To crown or not to crown?. British Dental Journal 229, 740 (2020).

Iqbal, A. (2016). The factors responsible for endodontic treatment failure in the permanent dentitions of the patients reported to the College of Dentistry, the University of Aljouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH.

Levine, M. (1988, June). Root-canal therapy: A means of treating oral pain and infection. Canadian family Physician (Medecin de Famille Canadien).

Mustafa, M., Almuhaiza, M., Alamri, H. M., Abdulwahed, A., Alghomlas, Z. I., Alothman, T. A., & Alhajri, F. F. (2021). Evaluation of the causes of failure of root canal treatment among patients in the City of Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia. Nigerian journal of clinical practice, 24(4), 621–628.

Tabassum, S., & Khan, F. R. (2016). Failure of endodontic treatment: The usual suspects. European Journal of Dentistry, 10(01), 144–147.

Tang, L., Sun, T. Q., Gao, X. J., Zhou, X. D., & Huang, D. M. (2011). Tooth anatomy risk factors influencing root canal working length accessibility. International journal of oral science, 3(3), 135–140.

Tikku, A. P., Chandra, A., & Bharti, R. (2010, October). Are full cast crowns mandatory after endodontic treatment in posterior teeth? Journal of Conservative Dentistry: JCD.

Ungar, P. S. (2009). Tooth form and function: Insights into adaptation through the analysis of dental microwear. Frontiers of Oral Biology, 38–43.

Yavorek, A., Bhagavatula, P., Patel, K., Szabo, A., & Ibrahim, M. (2020). The incidence of root canal therapy after full-coverage restorations: A 10-year retrospective study. Journal of Endodontics, 46(5), 605–610.

About the Company

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Dayo Dental is a US-based company helping American and Canadian customers find the most reputable and qualified dentists in Mexico. Through Dayo Dental Network of pre-vetted dental practitioners, clients can find the top dentists in their field offering top-notch dental services for, often times, a fraction of the cost of US/Canadian prices.

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