Dental crowns are used to protect a tooth from further decay and keep it intact. Dental crowns are tooth shaped covers placed over severely damaged or decayed teeth. When a filling cannot be used due to a cracked or broken tooth, a crown is placed over the tooth to improve the appearance of your smile and strengthen your teeth. When a crown is needed, a temporary prefabricated crown will be used until your permanent crown is made. If the dentist can remove the decay and there is no underlying infection, you may be able to receive a crown with no root canal.
Root canals are required when the pulp becomes decayed and reaches the nerve. When the nerve is involved, severe pain can occur. The dentist will drill out the pulp and remove the nerve. Then they will fill the tooth with an artificial material to seal the tooth. Finally, your dentist will insert a temporary tooth filling or crown over the tooth, until a custom-created one can be made.
Life Expectancy Of A Crown With No Root Canal
Dental crowns last more than seven years. If proper oral hygiene is practiced, the crown can last a lifetime. Good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily and floss in between your teeth. Be sure to get the area along your gum line at least once a day. Dentists recommend using a rechargeable toothbrush because this type of toothbrush removes plaque better than a standard toothbrush. For flossing, most experts recommend using a water flosser. Water flossers spray a stream of water to sweep away plaque and food particles. It cleans between your teeth and along the gum line. A water flosser will not damage your gums the way dental floss can; therefore, it is a safer and more comfortable alternative to flossing.
After you get your crown with no root canal, you should not experience any sensitivity or discomfort. Remember, if a root canal is not performed, your tooth will still have its nerve. This means you may experience sensitivity when eating cold foods. If you experience pain or pressure sensitivity, contact your dentist. This can be a sign that the crown was set too high. The crown can easily be adjusted to avoid pressure sensitivity.
Once a tooth is crowned, it cannot decay; however, decay can occur along the gum line. Dentists typically recommend using a fluoride gel to be used before bedtime. This ultimately reduces the risk of decay at along your gum line. Crowns do not protect against gum disease; therefore, you should practice good hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once daily.
Risks With A Crown With No Root Canal
A dental crown with no root canal can become loose or chip. Your dentist can repair either of these concerns. If your crown comes off, you should take care because food particles can feed the bacteria in your mouth and cause a tooth abscess. Try your best to get to your dentist that day it happens. Place your crown in a zip lock plastic baggie and take it to your dentist. Did your crown comes off on the weekend or when you are unable to get to see your dentist? If so, you can use an over the counter temporary cement or denture adhesive. This will keep your dental crown in place until you can visit your dentist.
Before cementing the crown into place, you should ensure the inside of the crown is thoroughly clean. Remove any debris or cement that is adhered to the crown using a toothpick or a dental pick. Once you have removed the adhesive, use a wet cotton swab to wipe out the crown. Then apply a denture adhesive or temporary cement to the inside of the crown. Put the crown on your tooth and hold it in place until it seals, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Contact your dentist’s office to schedule an appointment. It is best if you can get in to see your dentist within 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
If you have a cracked or decayed tooth, you may need a dental crown. Frequently, a dentist will install a crown with no root canal. Dental crowns help protect your tooth and prevent further decay. Remember, dental crowns require the same care as real teeth, which means you must floss and brush your teeth following the American Dental Association’s recommendations.
