My root canal-treated tooth is chipping off, and I need to get a crown for it. What should I do as a temporary measure?

Q. Is there a temporary measure available instead of a crown to protect the root canal-treated teeth from chipping off?

Answered by
Dr. Bhargav Reddy Gutha
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Aug 01, 2022 and last reviewed on: Jul 27, 2023

Hello doctor,

I received a root canal on the upper right first molar a couple of years ago. At the time, I was unable to get a crown. I was given a filling as a temporary measure. Recently, I went to the dentist and was informed I needed a crown, or the tooth would break off, and I would lose the tooth. Some of the tooth portions are already chipped, but at the time of my dental visit, there was enough tooth to put a crown. As of this evening, a little more of the tooth has chipped off, and there is exposed dark gutta-percha. I am trying to get a crown as soon as possible, but it is difficult for me to do it right now and may take several weeks. What can I do to protect my tooth and take care of it while waiting for a crown?

#

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

For a tooth crown supporting a tooth structure of minimum dentin thickness, you could go for a temporary polycarbonate tooth crown until you decide on a permanent crown. The diagnosis for your condition is secondary caries which might be ruled out after clinical examination. I would advise a crown again if enough tooth structure remains for support as the prognosis is good.

Hello doctor,

I was not aware that a temporary crown was an option. That makes me feel a lot better. Over the weekend, before I can get to a dentist, should I try to brush or floss that tooth? Very vigorous flossing dislodged this last chip and exposed the dark spot. However, I want to keep it clean to try and avoid bacteria re-infecting the tooth. Kindly advise.

#

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Keep the area clean with water rinsing instead of doing methods that did damage already.


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