Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Quick answer
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
Usually yes for back teeth, often no for front teeth.
Molars and premolars take heavy biting forces, and a root-treated back tooth is more likely to crack without a crown or a similar protective restoration over it. Front teeth with plenty of healthy structure left can often be restored with a filling. At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, crowns start from £795 and we will explain the reason for the recommendation on your tooth.
What you need to know
Root canal treatment does not make a tooth brittle by itself — the problem is how much tooth was already lost to decay, old fillings and access to the canals. The less tooth left, the more it needs covering.
Leaving a back tooth without a crown for a long time is a common reason it splits. A split below the gum line often means the tooth cannot be saved, so the crown is part of protecting the money already spent on the root canal.
If a crown is not affordable straight away, ask about temporary protection and 0% finance. See dental crowns and how long crowns last.
Care at York House Dental Practice
Welcoming new patients, families and emergency appointments from West Byfleet, Woking, Weybridge, and across Surrey.
Last reviewed: by Dr Kaveet Patel, Principal Dentist
