I had root canal done a year ago and have a temporary plastic material. My original crown was damaged. What can I do?

Question

I had an RCT done about a year back and since then having a temp. plastic material covering it. It is not a cap just some plastic to hold the tooth and to maintain the gap between the tooth. After the RCT the doctor tried to put the permanent crown but it was not a proper fit. The doctor tried to shorten the crown but in doing so the crown was damaged. The doctor had made a new crown but I couldn't get the time to have the new on placed. Since then I am on the temp. crown. Please advice.

Prince Arrington III, DDS · Answer

Following a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle and is subject to fracture or breaking. In most cases, and on posterior teeth in particular, it is crucial to to protect the tooth with a crown following root canal therapy. the temporary crown provides some protection, but is only meant to be an interim solution. Get back to your dentist as soon as possible for the final crown. Good Luck!

Elizabeth Reiser-Loeber, DMD · Answer

The best thing is to go to the dentist and try to get the crown fitted. If it doesn't work, a new one will have to be made. It isn't good to leave a plastic temporary in place and there may be a cavity underneath, as well as problems with your gums.

Supriya Verma, DMD, FAGD · Answer

Whenever root canal treatment is completed on a tooth it leaves the tooth britttle.  The remaining tooth structure can easily fracture during normal function.  When a plastic filling is placed it gives it some more strength and reinforcement but can still fracture.  A temporary crown is meant to be a Temporary and not meant for long term use. A Permanent crown should be placed for long term health.  You should go back to your dentist and get the permanent crown as soon as possible.

I had root canal done a year ago and have a temporary plastic material. My original crown was damaged. What can I do?

Answers (3)