Question:
After a successful root canal ( #12 tooth ) is it required to
place a crown on the tooth. If not what would be the
long term results?
Answer:
Only the "magic 8 ball" can tell. However (as of today) the recommended
therapy for most root canal treated teeth in the posterior portion of the mouth
is a reinforcing casted restoration (crown, onlay).
Even with the crown, it is worth noting that maxillary bicuspids are
prone to fracture...when? Same 8 ball answer. The crown gives it some
advantage. I had endo,post,crown on #5...lasted 25 years...now I have
an Acrylic EastFlex Monodont.
Due to a fascinating bit of dental anatomy. The upper first bicuspid is
concave on the mesial aspect to allow for the canine to fit next to it.
You will be interested to know that beats the average by over 2x.
Do we dentists have an obligation, either morally, or legally, to explain
projected lifespan of various treatment options? The reason why I am asking
is that makes dental implants look a bit more attractive.
Thingamagig on #12 9yrs now(one small chip repair). #4 is now an EF70
and a denture tooth. The crown was placed by sears while I was on a
Buisness trip to Chicago. The pt wanted me to replace the rebar think
with a crown. Why? I asked she said "Sears said that they are better".
I told her to waituntill it chipps agen. Two months later she came in
with the crown and broken post in hand. "I think I'll keep your post
ting Doc" The rest is EF70 history.
What happens when you go to uncover the implant and it drops to the
floor?
I think we do, morally, at least. The more information that we give our
patients, the more capable they are of making an informed decision. I believe
that by having them choose their preference from the available options, knowing
the risks, benefits, longevity, etc., the more responsible they are for making
their own health-care decisions, and the more they are responsible for the
outcome, whether favorable or unfavorable.
