Root canal therapy is the first line of treatment for tooth infection. The root canal procedure is fairly straightforward, but when the tooth is severely weakened or damaged, the post and core build-up procedure provides additional support for the dental crown. To understand the post and core build-up, however, it’s important to first understand the root canal.

 

What is the root canal procedure?

A root canal begins with a local anesthetic to ensure that you’re comfortable during the procedure. A rubber dam is placed over the infected tooth to help protect it from oral bacteria. Your dentist will then use specialized tools to create a small opening in the tooth and to remove the infected soft tissue inside. The interior of the canal is cleaned carefully and disinfected to rinse away any residual bacteria. Once the sterilization is complete, the canal is filled with a special material that helps prevent further infection and keeps the root stable. In most cases, the tooth is then topped with a crown for additional structure and support, but in cases when the tooth is intact except for the small root canal opening, a filling can be used in place of a crown.

Conversely, there are also times when the tooth is severely weak or damaged, necessitating the post and core build-up prior to placement of the crown.

 

What is a post and core build-up?

A post and core build-up is a dental restoration procedure that’s used after a root canal in cases when there’s not enough tooth structure to support the crown. The post and core build-up procedure is done in a single visit. The steps are as follows:

  • Infected pulp and decay are removed from inside the tooth
  • The canal is cleaned out and disinfected
  • A sterilized post is inserted into the canal and left protruding slightly beyond the surface of the gums.
  • The post is bonded into place
  • Dental bonding material is built up around the post to create a strong core to support the crown
  • The dental crown is bonded to the built-up post

A strong and well-built post and core helps to ensure that your dental crown lasts for years to come.

 

Who needs a post and core build up?

A post and core build-up is not needed for every root canal, and unfortunately, not every dental insurance company will pay for it even when it is called for. But if your dentist recommends a post and core, it’s best that you see it through, even if you have to pay out of pocket. Although you may be tempted to skip the extra step and just get straight to the dental crown, doing so could have expensive consequences. If a crown is bonded to a severely weakened tooth, it can result in a further weakened, broken, or infected tooth. Chances are, the tooth will eventually need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant. This can set you back significantly more than the post and core build up.

But at the same time, not every root canal requires a post and core build up. Your dentist will consider several factors to determine whether or not you need a post and core. These factors include:

  • The quantity and quality of your remaining tooth structure (after the root canal)
  • The health of the teeth adjacent to the affected tooth
  • Your bruxism or clenching habits

If your dentist recommends a post and core but you’re not sure it’s necessary, ask to see the X-rays to see the damage, and if you’re still not convinced, get a second opinion.

 

Affordable prices and high-quality dental care in Mexico

At BioDental Care, our dentistry practice in Tijuana adheres to the highest professional standards while offering quality affordable dental services, including root canal therapy and post and core build up. We’re committed to transparency and patient education, and we’ll provide you with everything you need to understand the process prior to your procedure so you know what to expect every step of the way.

If you’re looking to save money on dental costs, we offer a comprehensive range of general and cosmetic dental services as well as oral surgery and holistic dentistry services at much lower prices compared to U.S. dentists. For more information or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (619) 754-8508.