Reviewed by Dr. Brett Broda
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Reading time: four minutes
Dental crowns are used to restore the strength, function, and appearance of damaged or compromised teeth. While crowns are commonly placed after more extensive procedures such as root canal treatment, they are also used in many situations where the tooth’s nerve remains healthy.
Table of Contents
Can You Get a Crown Without a Root Canal?
Yes! A dental crown can be placed without a root canal as long as the tooth’s pulp is healthy. In most cases, the crown is used to protect or restore the tooth’s structure or appearance rather than to treat infection, and a root canal is not needed. Root canal treatment is typically only needed when the inner pulp of the tooth is damaged or infected.
Common Reasons a Crown May Be Recommended
A dental crown may be recommended when a tooth is weakened, damaged, or cosmetically compromised but still healthy on the inside. In these situations, the goal is to protect the tooth and restore function or appearance.
Common examples include:
- Large fillings that have weakened the remaining tooth structure
- Cracked or broken teeth where the crack has not reached the pulp
- Tooth damage from grinding or wear
- Cosmetic reasons, such as reshaping or covering severely discolored teeth
- Teeth restored after fracture, but without deep decay or infection
- Insufficient remaining tooth structure to support other restorations
Here, the crown acts as a protective covering that helps preserve the tooth and reduce the risk of future damage.
When a Root Canal Is Necessary Before a Crown
A root canal is needed when deep decay, trauma, or cracks reach the pulp, causing inflammation or infection. Signs that the pulp may be compromised include:
- Persistent or severe pain
- Lingering tooth sensitivity to heat or cold
- Swelling or tenderness around the tooth
- Infection visible on digital X‑rays
- A history of repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
In these cases, placing a crown without addressing the infected pulp would trap bacteria inside the tooth. That almost guarantees future pain and usually leads to a dental emergency.
Dental Crowns in Boulder, CO
If you’ve been told you need a crown or are unsure whether or not you need a root canal, we’re here to help you understand your options. Our focus is on conservative, individualized care guided by accurate diagnosis and long-term dental health.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 442-6141 or visit us at 777 29th St, Unit 300, Boulder, CO 80303.
FAQs
Are dental crowns painful?
Getting a dental crown is not painful. The tooth is numbed during the procedure, and most patients feel little to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal. It usually lasts only a few days and goes away quickly.
Do you have to grind down my tooth?
In most cases, no, we don’t grind down your tooth in the way people imagine. Modern dentistry is conservative by design. When shaping a tooth is needed, we remove only a very small, controlled amount of enamel, just enough to improve function, comfort, or appearance while keeping your natural tooth structure strong and healthy.
Are dental crowns permanent?
Dental crowns are considered a long-term restoration, but they are not technically permanent. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, a crown can last decades before needing replacement.
How long does a dental crown take?
The length of the procedure depends on the type of crown. Same-day crowns are done in one visit. Traditional crowns usually need two appointments a few weeks apart.
How long do dental crowns last?
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns are long-lasting restorations, but their longevity depends in part on daily habits. Grinding, clenching, or biting hard objects can increase the likelihood of damage or replacement.
Where can I get a same-day crown near me?
Where can I get a same-day crown near me?
Broda Family Dental offers same-day dental crowns in Boulder, CO, using advanced digital technology. Same-day crowns allow patients to restore their tooth in one visit without the need for a temporary crown.
