Restorative Dentistry
A post and core is a foundation placed inside a root-treated tooth when too little natural tooth remains to support a crown. A thin post is anchored in the root canal space and a core is built up around it to recreate the shape of the tooth.
It is generally advised for teeth that have had root canal treatment and lost a significant amount of structure. The decision depends on the root length, the amount of remaining tooth and the forces on that tooth.
Benefits
- Provides support for a crown
- Helps retain a heavily damaged tooth
- Recreates the shape of the tooth
- Works together with root canal treatment
- Allows a stable, long-term restoration
What to Expect
- Assessment and X-ray of the root-treated tooth
- Preparation of space in the root canal
- Selection and fitting of the post
- Building up the core
- Preparation for the crown
- Placement of the final crown
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is only needed when there is not enough tooth left to support a crown. Your dentist will decide based on your X-ray and the remaining tooth structure.
A post does not strengthen a tooth by itself. It helps hold the core and crown in place, and a well-fitted crown protects the remaining tooth.
The tooth has usually been root treated, and local anaesthetic is used when needed, so most patients feel little or no discomfort.
