Is It Possible to Have a Crown Redone? Will It Mean I Need a Root Canal?

Question

I have two crowns that I don't like for cosmetic reasons on molars, is there any risk to have them redone? They are live teeth, if I redo then 3rd time is it like asking for a root canal? Also if the crown the lab creates doesn't satisfy my requirements can the dentist sent it back to have it made to my satisfaction? I have small teeth and so far crowns always come back too bulky compared to natural teeth, so if it comes in bulky can I ask to have it remade?

Scott Greenhalgh, DDS · Answer

Dental crowns are a long lasting treatment. They can last over 20 years in the right circumstances. We have crowns now that are both highly aesthetic and very strong. Not that long ago we still had a lot of crowns that looked dark at the edge or for back teeth, showed silver at the edge.

	A crown can be easily re-done. I does require some additional trimming to make a new crown, but if the current crown is in good condition, then you will likely not need too much treatment. You are correct in thinking that every time a crown is removed and replaced it does have some affect on the health of the tooth. Re-doing a crown multiple times does increase the chance that the tooth may ultimately need a root canal.

	Some labs and dentists are fanatical about making a very natural crown. Others are not so concerned and there are many very average crowns out there. In general, a new crown ought to be able to be designed such that it IS very natural, but make sure your dentist knows exactly what you are concerned about BEFORE starting this re-crowning process.

	If you have been really disappointed in the size or shape of other crowns, you may need a better dentist and a better lab. If you are REALLY concerned about this going well, the dentist may have a wax replica made before he starts so you can see and get a sense for the target results. Oftentimes, the new temporary crown can be modified to be similar to the new final result. You can test drive the plastic crown to get an idea of what the new final one will be like.

	In general, this should be able to be done easily, but discuss your concerns first, and make sure you are getting a thoughtful reply from your dentist and staff. Listen for clues as to HOW they are going to address your concerns.

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:There is always an increased chance of root canal when there is work done on a existing crown.  You can definitely send the crown back to the lab prior to cementation if you are not satisfied.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Thank you for your quesion. Like any medical procedure, there are always risks. In my opinion it is minimal  though in comparison to leaving bulky crowns on. Bulkiness  can cause inflammation of the gums, which might lead to gum recession, teeth sensitivity and gum disease in the long term.
In my office, before cementing ANY permanent dental work, including crowns , we show it to the patient to make sure he/she is happy with a final result. In case, which is very rare, patient wants to change/modify something, we absolutely send it back as long as it is a reasonable request.

Pamela Marzban, DDS · Answer

Not every situation is the same, but the more stress you put on the tooth the higher the chances of trauma to the tooth leading to a root canal.  Despite the procedure&rsquo;s negative reputation in popular culture, there is absolutely no need to be afraid of a root canal. A root canal is performed to treat and prevent infection after decay, injury, or a tooth fracture and if done in time can actually save your tooth. In the past, a root canal procedure might have been quite painful.  The patient have to be happy with the color selected, and any changes can be made before is cemented on the tooth.

Michael Firouzian, DDS · Answer

Yes, your crowns can be removed and replaced with new crowns without needing root canals, provided that there are no hidden cavities under the old crowns.  Your current crowns can be carefully removed so that there is minimal irritation to the nerve of the tooth.  As far as the appearance of the crown, my suggestion would be to have your dentist order a wax model of your new crowns from which he can also make temporary crowns so that you can preview the final result.  This gives you both an opportunity to modify the shape or size as needed.  Hope this helps.  Good luck!

Is It Possible to Have a Crown Redone? Will It Mean I Need a Root Canal?

Answers (10)

Answer: New crowns and Root canal

Answer: New crowns and Root canal

Answer: Replacing old crowns.

Answer: Replacing old crowns.

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Everything you need to know about Dental Crown

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is It Possible to Have a Crown Redone? Will It Mean I Need a Root Canal?

Answers (10)

Answer: New crowns and Root canal

Answer: New crowns and Root canal

Answer: Replacing old crowns.

Answer: Replacing old crowns.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Crown

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.