Do I need a crown or inlay after root canal? (Photos)

Question

Both teeth have done root canals, my dentist suggests a full crown for my molar tooth which I agree, but onlay for the other tooth. I'm afraid that after root canal, the tooth becomes too weak to support the onlay. However my dentist claims that the front tooth with onlay has low risk to split even after RC because it bears fewer force than molar tooth.

Amber Garcia, DDS · Answer

I typically recommend crowns for molars due to the amount of chewing force they take compared to other teeth. A smaller premolar would do well with an onlay. It preserves tooth structure and protects the tooth at the same time. Assuming you have sufficient tooth structure to support an onlay, it's a great option.

Tarsys Loayza, DDS, MSc · Answer

Hello
Yes, it´s recommend it, so that there are no problems in the gums and the bite
Regards.

N. Summer Lerch, DDS, FAGD - Account Suspended · Answer

HI there,Molar teeth definitely need a crown after a root canal procedure.  Premolar teeth, with their smaller size, possibly less chewing force, could do well with an onlay.  Further an onlay done well is the most esthetic and natural solution in a beautiful smile.  For all these reasons I like onlays in the premolar region too. However it is a tooth by tooth consideration as it can be risky due to the small nature of premolar teeth, the lack of bulky tooth structure at the gumline and what ever destruction of the tooth happened to require the root canal in the first place.  If you feel strongly about a crown (and you clearly have done your research) then ask for that.  If you choose a crown, definitely manage for that it is invisible in your smile. Ask to see it, get a mirror, look at it in different lights before it is cemented.   A well done porcelain crown can be a wonderful addition to a smile!

Hisham Kaloti, DDS (retired) · Answer

I’m not sure if the xrays you posted are of the root canals you had completed? If so I would advise you to maybe a get a second opinion before you have these teeth restored. I’m concerned that there may still be work to be done on the root canals before they’re resorted, best to check with your dentist if the work is actually complete?
The xrays you posted show only partial root canals completed but still a work in progress. Once the teeth are properly had root canal therapy then you absolutely should get permanent restoration such as either crowns or inlay/onlays. Your teeth are heavily restored so they need proper lab made restorations for best outcome!

Do I need a crown or inlay after root canal? (Photos)

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Do I need a crown or inlay after root canal? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Not yet!

Answer: Not yet!

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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.