How should you cap off your root canal in Brookhaven, PA? Our dentist will walk you through whether a filling or crown fits your case, but it’s good to know your options. Either way, Crescent Dental Studio will make sure your endodontic procedure is finished with the perfect restoration.
What Are Fillings and Crowns?
Dental fillings repair minor tooth damage. After a root canal in Brookhaven, our dentist may use a filling to seal the access hole we drilled during the procedure. Fillings are less invasive and quicker to place, making them a convenient option for smaller restorations.
Tooth crowns, also known as caps, cover the entire tooth, providing robust protection and restoring shape, size, and strength. Crowns offer more comprehensive coverage than fillings, protecting the treated tooth from fracture and decay after a root canal.
Signs You Need a Filling After a Root Canal
At Crescent Dental Studio, we tailor treatment to each patient. While the steps of a root canal in our Brookhaven office are straightforward, the finishing touches depend on each case. We might opt for a filling due to the following:
- Minimal Tooth Changes: If we didn’t alter much of your tooth, and it’s still strong, a filling may suffice.
- Tooth Location: We often use fillings for teeth located at the front of the mouth.
- Budget Constraints: Fillings are more cost-effective. If you’re worried about expense and fillings are an option, we can choose this route.
Signs You Need a Crown After a Root Canal
Dental crowns are often the traditional choice after root canals in Brookhaven if the following apply:
- Significant Tooth Changes: If a large portion of your tooth is damaged or decayed—likely the reason you needed the root canal—a crown is necessary.
- Tooth Location: If we treated a back molar, a crown can better withstand that area’s heavy chewing forces.
- Previous Decay or Fractures: If you previously had a filling on that tooth, or it’s prone to fractures, we’ll opt for a crown.
Expected Recovery Time and Follow-Up
After a Brookhaven root canal, we can usually place a filling immediately. For crowns, the recovery time is slightly longer. If you had a temporary crown, you’ll return in 2-3 weeks for your permanent one. As for the root canal itself, you should feel back to normal in about a week.
Regardless of which restoration you get, you should maintain oral hygiene and come in for regular checkups and cleanings. Be careful when flossing around a crown, and be sure to pull the floss through rather than yank it out.
Long-Term Benefits of Root Canal Restorations
- Preservation: Both fillings and crowns provide support and protection after a root canal in Brookhaven, significantly extending the life of your tooth.
- Prevention: Proper restoration prevents bacteria from entering the tooth, reducing the risk of future problems.
- Performance: Crowns, in particular, help your treated tooth work just like normal. Fillings, while less comprehensive, still offer a significant improvement.
Cap Off Your Brookhaven Root Canal Journey with Us
At Crescent Dental Studio, we provide a seamless transition following your root canal treatment. Whether we decide a filling or a crown is right for you, we’ll make sure you get the perfect, tailored restoration. Schedule your root canal in Brookhaven, PA, at our office today!
