How long can a open tooth (root canaled) stay without a crown?

Question

My crown on 3 adjacent back molar teeth fell off (it was around 6 months old). Root canal was done on all the three teeth. They are now open (without the crown) for couple months with no pain or discomfort. Typically how soon should one put a new crown back or can keep the tooth open after root canal and filling is completed?

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. I am glad you have no pains in your mouth. In general, crowns should be done on every posterior tooth, which had a root canal therapy done. A root canal therapy does save teeth, but they, not having nurishment, become brittle. Teeth, which had this therapy should have the crowns on them, because crowns protect teeth from breakage.I would recommend to replace lost crown asap.Good luck!

Michael J. Landry, DDS · Answer

A tooth usually needs a root canal due to decay or fracture.  In both of these cases a significant portion of the tooth has to be restored.  The longer you wait the greater the chance of fracture of the tooth. or new decay.  Teeth become a bit more brittle after a root canal, and for that reason they are more prone to fracture.  After  youo have spent the money on a root canal, you would not want to lose the tooth.

David M. Schertzer, DDS · Answer

There are a couple risks you are taking if you do not properly care for those teeth:1.  Teeth with root canals can become more brittle and fracture easier.  Crowns will help protect against this.  If the tooth fractures in may not be restorable and required extraction/removal.2.  The gum tissue can overgrow parts of the tooth and would necessitate an additional procedure to remove the excess gum tissue prior to crowns being done and this could add to the cost.3.  Decay/cavity- you currently have exposed "dentin" which is what is underneath your tooth's external protective layer of enamel.  This dentin can easily develop decay which, if not corrected early enough, could cause the need for re-treatment of the root canal(s) or loss of the tooth.4.  Packing of food/debris could cause increase in pocketing around your teeth and possible bone loss.In short, don't put off the crowns if you are able.  The sooner you protect the teeth the less risk you are taking.

How long can a open tooth (root canaled) stay without a crown?

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How long can a open tooth (root canaled) stay without a crown?

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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.