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All About the Post and Core: A Solution to Save Your Damaged Teeth
Do you have a severely damaged tooth but its root is still healthy? A post and core can allow for its durable restoration without needing an extraction.
But what exactly does this technique involve? What are the steps for its placement? How much does it cost and is it covered by insurance? Discover all the answers in this complete guide.
What Is a Post and Core?
A post and core is a fixed prosthesis that allows for the reconstruction of a severely damaged tooth by relying on its root. It consists of two elements:
- A post that is inserted into the root of the tooth to strengthen it.
- A core buildup which sits on top of the post and provides a solid foundation for a prosthetic crown, which will completely cover the tooth to restore its shape and function.
This type of restoration is for root canal-treated teeth whose root is strong enough to support the post. If the root is too fragile, an extraction followed by an implant placement will be considered.
Posts can be made of metal (titanium, stainless steel), fiberglass, or zirconia. The choice depends on the tooth to be restored and the patient's preferences.
The Steps for Placing a Post and Core
Placing a post and core requires several steps:
- Root canal treatment of the tooth if it has not already been done, to remove the nerve.
- Preparation of the root by widening the root canal to insert the post.
- Taking impressions of the dental arches to create the custom crown.
- Placement and cementation of the post in the root, followed by the core buildup.
- Placement of a temporary crown while waiting for the final prosthesis.
- Fabrication of the crown in a dental lab (2 to 3 weeks).
- Try-in and cementation of the final crown on the core.
- Checking the bite and fit.
The total duration of the treatment is about 1 month. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to check for proper healing.
How Much Does a Post and Core Cost?
The fees for a post and core are set by the provider. The cost depends on the type of post and crown chosen. On average, expect:
- Between $200 and $400 for the post and core alone.
- Between $800 and $1,500 for a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown.
- Between $1,000 and $2,500 for an all-ceramic crown.
This amounts to a total of $1,000 to $2,900 or more for the entire procedure. Ask your dentist for a detailed quote.
Insurance Coverage
The placement of a post and core, as well as the crown, are typically considered "major" restorative services by dental insurance. Coverage often includes:
- A deductible to be met.
- Co-insurance, where the plan covers a percentage (often 50%) of the cost.
- An annual maximum benefit limit.
With a good dental insurance plan, you can get significant additional reimbursement. Some plans cover up to 50% or more of the cost, greatly reducing your out-of-pocket expense. Don't hesitate to compare plans before committing.
When Is a Post and Core Necessary?
A post and core is indicated to restore a severely damaged tooth, especially in cases of:
- Deep and extensive cavity.
- Significant fracture.
- Major discoloration.
- Excessive wear (bruxism).
It is for root canal-treated teeth with a healthy and strong root. In case of a root that is too short or fragile, an implant placement will be preferred after extraction.
Possible Risks and Problems
A post and core is a relatively safe and reliable procedure. Complications are rare but can occur:
- Debonding of the post: the post can sometimes come loose, requiring re-intervention. If it is mobile, consult quickly.
- Infection: a recurrent cavity at the root level can affect the post and core tooth. Endodontic retreatment will be necessary.
- Fracture: in case of significant trauma, the post can break inside the root. Extraction is then often unavoidable.
Post and Core vs. Implant: What's the Difference?
A post and core and an implant have the same goal of replacing a missing tooth structure but use very different techniques:
- The post relies on the root of an existing, root canal-treated tooth that is preserved.
- The implant is anchored directly into the jawbone after the tooth has been extracted.
The implant thus mimics an artificial root, while the post reinforces a natural root. The placement of an implant is longer and more invasive but is a more permanent solution when the natural root is not salvageable.
In all cases, only your dentist can determine which is the best option for your situation after a thorough examination of your dentition.
FAQ
Is a tooth with a post and core visible?
No, once the crown is in place, the post and core tooth looks identical to the neighboring teeth. In the mouth, nothing will distinguish it.
How long does a crown on a post last?
On average, the lifespan of a tooth with a post and core is estimated to be between 10 and 15 years. But with good maintenance and regular visits, it can last over 20 years without problems.
Is the placement of a post painful?
The procedure is performed on a tooth that has already had a root canal, so it is not painful. However, some pain is possible in the days following, which can be easily managed with pain relievers.
What to do if the tooth with a post and core becomes loose?
If you feel that your crown is unstable or mobile, consult your dentist immediately. Depending on the case, a re-cementation or removal of the post will be necessary.
In conclusion, restoring a root canal-treated tooth with a post and core is an excellent alternative to extraction. Aesthetic and functional, this type of reconstruction is very common in modern dentistry.