Post and Core

What is post and core?

A post and core is a dental restoration that is used to restore a tooth which is too weak or has been badly damaged, typically after root canal therapy. It helps to support a crown, when there is insufficient tooth structure left.

• Post: A tiny stick inserted into the cleaned canal of the tooth. It maintains the core without strengthening the root.
• Core: The tooth-colored or metal material surrounding (post) which is used to form the missing part of the tooth so a crown can be firmly placed.

The post and core restoration restores the shape, function and appearance of the tooth and allows it to resist normal biting forces.

When is a Post and Core Required?

Dentists might suggest a post and core when:

• Too much structure has been lost in a tooth as a result of decay or trauma.
• There is not enough tooth structure left in a tooth to place a crown on it after treatment of the root canal system.
• An old filling or crown is broken and there is little healthy tooth remaining.
• Before the crowns are placed, the tooth will need extra holding.

The types of post and core are:

Fiber Post and Core

• Very aesthetic and tooth coloured.
• Flexible, less likely to break the roots of the tooth.
• Usually used in front teeth.

Metal Post and Core

• Constructed of stainless steel, titanium or gold alloy.
• Extremely strong and durable.
• Usually used on posterior teeth where there is increased chewing pressure.

Cast Post and Core

• Made specifically for the dental practitioner from an impression of the tooth in a dental lab.
• It is appropriate for teeth that have been badly damaged and/or for root canals that are abnormally shaped.

The advantages of a Post and Core are:

• Can restore badly damaged teeth.
• Provides strong support for a dental crown.
• Improves chewing ability.
• Maintains natural tooth, rather than removal.
• With proper care, it provides lasting performance.
• Improves the looks of regenerated teeth.

Post and core dental

Post and core dental treatment is a restorative treatment offered for a tooth that is severely damaged or weak, usually following a root canal therapy. If the natural tooth structure has been compromised because of decay, fracture or large filling, a post and core is necessary to support the dental crown.

Post and core procedure

Post and core steps:

Plan for the examination and treatment

The dentist will check the tooth for signs of viability through clinical examination and X-ray imaging to make sure there is sufficient remaining healthy tooth structure to which the post and crown can be fixed. The treatment plan is developed if the tooth is suitable.

Root Canal Treatment

When the tooth hasn't had root canal treatment yet, the infected or damaged pulp is removed. Canals are disinfected, cleaned, molded, and filled with a disinfectant.

Setting up the Root Canal

After the root canal is healed or sometimes right after it has been treated, the dentist removes part of the filling from the root canal, but leaves enough of the filling at the end of the root to seal the canal properly. This leaves space for a dental post.

Placing the Post

Depending on the condition of the tooth, a prefabricated fiber or metal post or a custom-made cast post is chosen. The post is precisely fitted and permanently cemented in the prepared root canal.

Building the Core

Once the post is set in place, the dentist creates a core with composite resin or other restorative material. The core will replace the missing tooth structure and reconstruct the shape of the tooth.

Tooth Preparation

The rebuilt tooth has a shape that allows for the placement of a dental crown. Impressions/digital scans are created to fabricate a customized crown.

Temporary crown

To protect the tooth, a temporary crown can be fitted in the meantime during the manufacture of the permanent crown.

Permanent Crown Placement

The prepared tooth is fitted with the custom-made crown, checked for bite, fit and appearance and then is permanently cemented onto the prepared tooth at the end of the visit.

Custom made post and core

Custom made post and core (also referred to as cast post and core) is a dental post that is made for a patient's specific tooth following a root canal procedure. Prefabricated posts are available in regular sizes while a custom post and core is created in a dental laboratory to fit the size and shape of the prepared root canal.

It's often suggested when a tooth has substantial structure loss and needs a solid, well-fitting underlying structure for a dental crown.

When is a Custom Made Post and Core Needed?

Your dentist may recommend a custom made post and core if:

• The tooth is so broken down after the root canal treatment that there is extensive damage.
• Little to no natural tooth structure is above the gum line.
• The root canal is unusual in shape or is wide.
• A prefabricated post cannot hold up the load sufficiently.
• The final crown requires a good and precise fit.

The different kinds of Custom Made Posts

Cast Metal Post and Core

• Made up in one piece.
• Typically produced from dental alloys of gold or other metals.
• Extremely strong and durable.
• Commonly used for molars.

CAD/CAM Custom Posts

• Designed using digital scans and computer-aided manufacturing.
• Provides excellent precision and fit.
• Come in various materials based on clinical scenarios.

Conclusion

A post and core is a good choice for the treatment of severely damaged teeth, particularly those that have undergone endodontics. It supports a dental crown and gives the tooth its strength, function and appearance and helps maintain the natural tooth if possible. The selection of fiber post, metal post or custom made cast post will depend on the amount of remaining tooth structure, the location of the tooth and the individual needs of the patient. A post and core restoration, if done correctly, can offer a long-lasting result that can keep a healthy and functional smile for years and years to come.

Post and Core in India GetWellGo

GetWellGo is regarded as a leading supplier of healthcare services. We help our foreign clients choose the best treatment locations that suit their needs both financially and medically.

We offer:

• Complete transparency
• Fair costs.
• 24-hour availability.
• Medical E-visas
• Online consultation from recognized Indian experts.
• Help in choosing the Best clinics in India for Post and Core.
• Expert dentists with proven results in success. 
• Assistance during and after the course of treatment.
• Language Support
• Travel and Accommodation Services
• Case manager assigned to every patient to provide seamless support in and out of the hospital like appointment booking
• Local SIM Cards
• Currency Exchange
• Arranging Patient’s local food

FAQs

Is it necessary to use post and core on all root canal treated teeth?

• No. A post and core should only be recommended if there is not enough natural tooth structure to support a dental crown.

What is the lifetime of a post and core?

• If the post and core is properly maintained with good oral hygiene, regular dental visits and a well-fitted crown, it can last for 10–15 years or more.

Does the post and core procedure hurt?

• No. This is generally painless as the tooth has already been treated with a root canal. Local anaesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience may be used by your dentist.

Which is the correct number of appointments to have for a post and core?

• The number of appointments needed for most post and core procedures is 1-2. If the cast is made specifically for the patient, it is possible that one or more visits may be necessary before the permanent crown is placed.

Can I eat after a post and core?

• Hard, sticky or crunchy foods should be avoided until the permanent crown is in place. Normally, you can eat what you like once the final crown has been cemented.

Is it possible to get a post and core to replace a missing tooth?

• No. A dental implant or bridge might be suggested if a tooth cannot be saved or is missing.

What is the treatment for a tooth with post/core?

• Practice good oral hygiene to minimize the risk of gum disease: Brush twice daily, floss regularly, avoid chewing ice or hard things and see your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.