I had a root canal on my tooth. My dentist told me that I need a crown and a post and core. I thought a crown protects a tooth after the root canal and do not understand why I might need the extra step. My dentist’s explanation does not make sense. Why would I need a post and core, and what could happen if I decline it? My insurance doesn’t want to pay for it. – Thank you. Federico from Trenton, NJ
Federico,
Thank you for your question.
Your dentist recommends a post and core to preserve your tooth. As far as your dental insurance, you need to understand that their object is to save money.
What Are a Dental Post and Core?
A dental post is a small rod that helps your tooth support a core. A core is a dental filling material for building your tooth to support a dental crown. Dentists use a post and core to strengthen a weak tooth after root canal treatment.
Why Would a Dentist Recommend a Post and Core?
A dentist may recommend a post and core if you lack enough healthy tooth structure to support a dental crown. Sometimes, a dentist must remove so much tooth decay or damage that little structure remains for cementing on a dental crown. A dentist will complete these steps:
- Perform root canal therapy to remove tooth decay and infection
- Insert one or two posts into the tooth
- Fill in the tooth with dental material
- Use dental bonding to shape the crown of the tooth
- Bond the dental crown to the rebuilt tooth
Will You Use a Your Tooth If You Decline a Post and Core?
If you decline a post and core, you may lose your tooth for these reasons:
- Without a post and core, your weak tooth may not be able to support a dental crown in the long term.
- If your tooth further weakens, your dentist must remove it.
- Replacing a missing tooth is expensive. You can expect to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for a dental implant and crown.
If you are unsure about your dentist’s treatment recommendation for a post and core, you may get a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Delaying a post and core can create more concerns with your tooth and result in costly treatment.
The Salem, Massachusetts, dentists at Burba Dental Partners sponsor this post. Read about what our dentists do to provide their patients with some of the best dental care in Boston.