Rebuilding a tooth with a post
dental post · post and core · tooth post · core build-up
If little of the tooth is left, a post or a core is placed in the root. A filling or crown is then attached to it.
After a root canal, when the top of the tooth is badly broken down.
⏱ Duration: usually 1 to 2 visits of 30 to 60 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- X-ray. A recent X-ray of the tooth is usually needed. It will be taken at the clinic.
- Food. Eat beforehand. Your mouth will be numb for a while after the visit.
- Root canals. Before a post, the root canals must be well filled. The doctor will check this.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Past X-rays of the tooth
How it goes
- The doctor checks the tooth and the X-ray
- If needed, you get numbing medicine
- Part of the canal filling is removed
- A ready-made post is placed, or an impression is taken for a custom core
- The post is fixed with special cement
- The tooth is rebuilt with a filling or prepared for a crown
What you'll feel
- It usually does not hurt. You may feel vibration from the tools
- You may feel pressure when the post is placed
Afterwards
- Do not eat until the numbness wears off
- Avoid hard food on that tooth until the crown is on
- A custom core usually takes a few days to make
- The crown is placed as your doctor plans
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe pain when biting that lasts several days
- Swelling of the gum near the tooth
- The post or temporary filling fell out
Common questions
Do I always need a crown on a tooth with a post?
Often, yes. It lowers the risk of the tooth cracking. Your doctor decides.
How long does a post last?
Usually many years, if the tooth has a crown and you protect it from hard food.