Can I Get a Root Canal Without Replacing My Crown or Bridge?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal but already have a dental crown or bridge, you might be wondering: Does that mean my crown or bridge has to be removed and replaced?
In some cases, the answer is no—it’s often possible to perform a root canal through your existing crown or bridge, saving you both time and expense. At Ivory Dental, your trusted Winter Park dentist, we aim to preserve healthy restorations whenever we can, while still delivering the best long-term results for your tooth. It’s important to remember that in many situations, the conditions that led to needing a root canal are because of cavities from a poor fitting crown, decay on the natural tooth, or damage to the existing crown or bridge. In these common situations, a replacement crown is warranted and keeping the existing crown would cause future issues which would “waste” the time and money put into the root canal procedure. However, we will cover situations in which a crown or bridge could and should be maintained (not replaced) which will both maximize remaining natural tooth structure and minimize patient cost.
Why Would a Tooth With a Crown Need a Root Canal?
A crown protects a tooth by covering it completely, but it doesn’t make the tooth “immune” to problems. You might still need a root canal if:
A cavity develops underneath the crown
The nerve inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected
An old filling or post under the crown fails
Trauma damages the tooth
In these situations, the crown is still doing its job structurally, but the inside of the tooth needs treatment.
How Root Canals Through Crowns and Bridges Work
Instead of removing the crown or bridge entirely, a dentist can often create a small opening through the top of it to reach the tooth’s inner chamber.
Access – A small, precise hole is made in the crown or bridge above the tooth.
Cleaning and sealing – The dentist removes the infected tissue, disinfects the canal, and fill it to prevent further problems.
Core buildup – The opening is sealed with a strong filling material, called a core buildup, which restores stability.
Polishing and finishing – We smooth the surface so your bite feels natural again.
When the existing crown or bridge is in good condition, this method allows us to treat the tooth without replacing the restoration.
The Benefits of Preserving Your Crown or Bridge
If a root canal can be done through your current restoration, there are several advantages:
Cost savings – Avoiding the need for a brand-new crown or bridge can significantly lower your treatment cost.
Fewer appointments – No need for new impressions, temporary restorations, or multiple lab visits.
Faster recovery – Less chair time and fewer steps mean you can get back to normal more quickly.
Preservation of healthy dental work – A well-fitting crown or bridge can last for years if cared for properly.
Is It Always Possible?
Not always. While this approach works in many cases, there are times when replacing the crown or bridge is the better option. A replacement may be necessary if:
There’s decay or damage under the crown margins
The crown or bridge is cracked, loose, or poorly fitting
The restoration is worn out or esthetically unsatisfactory
Accessing the tooth would compromise the strength of the crown or bridge
In these cases, replacing the restoration after the root canal ensures the tooth is fully protected and sealed.
What About PFM Crowns and Bridges?
PFM stands for porcelain-fused-to-metal, a common type of crown and bridge material. Many patients worry that the metal layer will make it too difficult to perform a root canal without removal.
The good news: PFM restorations can usually be accessed without issue. The dentist carefully removes a small portion of porcelain and drills through the thin underlying metal to reach the tooth. With the right tools and technique, this can be done while keeping the rest of the crown or bridge intact.
Comfort During the Procedure
Patients are often surprised by how comfortable the process feels. The procedure is very similar to a standard root canal, and we use the same local anesthetic to ensure you remain pain-free. Many patients also appreciate that there’s no need for a temporary crown, since your existing crown or bridge stays in place.
How Long Will the Crown or Bridge Last After?
When a root canal is performed through a crown or bridge that is otherwise in excellent condition, it can continue to function for years—sometimes just as long as it would have without the root canal. The key factors are:
Proper sealing of the access opening
Regular dental checkups to monitor the restoration
Good home care, including brushing and flossing
Your dentist will evaluate the restoration during each visit to make sure it’s still providing full protection.
TL;DR: Key Takeaways
Root canals can often be performed without replacing your crown or bridge
A small opening is made in the restoration, then sealed with a core buildup
This approach can save time, reduce costs, and preserve healthy dental work
Not possible if the crown or bridge is damaged, decayed, or poorly fitting
PFM crowns and bridges are usually suitable for this treatment
Longevity depends on the condition of the existing restoration and ongoing care
Experience Patient-Focused Dentistry in Winter Park
If you’ve been told you need a root canal but are concerned about losing your crown or bridge, let us evaluate your specific situation. At Ivory Dental, we always aim for the most conservative, cost-effective solution—without compromising your comfort or the quality of your treatment.
Schedule an appointment with your Winter Park dentist today to learn whether a root canal through your existing crown or bridge is right for you. Our friendly team will walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your care.
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