How does root canal therapy affect a tooth?

Root canal therapy leaves a tooth brittle and weak. The inner pulp layer of a tooth contains its nerves and blood vessels, so the tooth loses much of its blood supply when the infected pulp is removed and the tooth's root canals are cleaned out. The tooth is weaker also because only the sides of the tooth are left for support when the center of the tooth is gone.

These factors make it much easier for a tooth to break when you bite down on food. Biting and chewing place a tremendous amount of force on teeth, and weak, brittle teeth are especially vulnerable.


A crown protects the tooth

A crown can prevent these problems by covering and protecting the tooth and restoring its strength and shape.

There are many kinds of crowns, including crowns made of gold, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and porcelain. We'll talk with you about the best one for your situation to help you keep your healthy and beautiful smile.