Post and Core Placement: A Crucial Step Between Root Canal and Crown
If you've recently had a root canal treatment, or if your dentist told you that your tooth is too damaged or broken down to support a crown on its own, you may need a Post and Core.
Although it's not as widely known as crowns or fillings, post and core treatment is a key part of restoring heavily damaged teeth and saving them from extraction. Without it, your crown may lack the stability it needs to stay in place long-term.
What Exactly Is a Post and Core?
A post and core is a dental procedure that strengthens and rebuilds a tooth after a root canal, especially when much of the natural crown (the part of the tooth above the gumline) is missing.
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The post acts like an anchor. It's placed inside the root canal to help hold the core.
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The core is a special material placed over the post, rebuilding the tooth's original shape to support a dental crown.
Without a solid core, the crown may not have anything to sit on.
When and Why Is a Post and Core Needed?
Not all root canal-treated teeth require a post and core. However, it becomes essential when:
1. More than Half the Natural Tooth Is Gone
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If decay or trauma has destroyed most of the tooth, there's nothing left for a crown to attach to. A post and core rebuilds the missing structure.
2. The Tooth Is Weak or Brittle After Root Canal
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After root canal therapy, the tooth loses its nerve and blood supply. This makes it more brittle and prone to cracking. The post provides reinforcement.
3. There's a Risk of Fracture Without Reinforcement
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In molars or teeth with thin walls, a post can prevent the tooth from splitting under pressure.
Step-by-Step:
How Is a Post and Core Done?
1. Evaluation
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Your dentist will take x-rays or 3D scans to check the remaining tooth structure, canal shape, and root health.
2. Preparation
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The root canal filling is partially removed to make space for the post.
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The canal is shaped for proper post fit.
3. Post Insertion
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The chosen post (prefabricated or custom-made) is placed and cemented into the canal.
4. Core Build-Up
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A core material (composite resin or other dental cement) is applied around the post to rebuild the lost crown portion of the tooth.
5. Crown Preparation
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The rebuilt tooth is shaped to receive a permanent crown, which is usually placed in a future appointment.
Benefits of
Post and Core
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Reinforces structurally weak teeth
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Provides a solid base for long-lasting crowns
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Extends the lifespan of root canal-treated teeth
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Protects against future breakage or tooth loss
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More cost-effective than tooth extraction and implants
1. Is the post visible in the mouth?
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No. The post and core are entirely internal. Once the crown is placed, your tooth will look natural.
2. Can this procedure fail?
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Rarely, but yes especially if the crown is delayed, poor materials are used, or biting forces are too strong. Choosing an experienced dentist and following proper care makes failure unlikely.
3. What happens if I skip the post and core?
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The crown may not hold securely and can loosen or break. You also risk losing the tooth altogether, leading to extraction and a more expensive implant later.
4. Does it hurt?
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No. The tooth has no nerve after a root canal. Most patients feel no pain — only mild pressure during the procedure.
Ready to Restore Your Tooth?
Don’t let a weakened or broken tooth lead to extraction. A post and core may be the perfect solution to save and strengthen your natural tooth, giving your crown a firm and lasting foundation.