Post-and-Core Tooth Repair

1. What is a post-and-core?

A post-and-core is a metal component of an extensive tooth repair:
- It is a thin metal rod that is cemented into the root of a tooth.
- It consists of a post that fits into the root canal, and a core portion that projects above the gum.
A new replacement crown will be cemented into position over the core.

Core

After crown is fitted

Teeth that are treated for root canal problems are often badly broken down.
They need to be built up before they can have a replacement crown fitted over them.
Post-and-core fabrication is the method of choice for the build-up process.

Before

Core preparation

After

After a root canal treatment has been completed, the dentist will shape the root canal and pulp chamber.
An impression of the prepared tooth will be taken, and a dental technician will make the metal post-and-core.
The dentist will then cement the post-and-core into the root. The core and remaining tooth will be finally shaped before a replacement crown is made to fit over it.
The x-ray below is of two post crowns. The posts have been cemented into the root that roots.

2 post crowns

Prefabricated post systems are available.
The dentist can select a suitable ready-made post and cement it into the root.
A core is then built around the part of the post that projects above the root, using special materials.
The replacement post crown can then be made and fitted.

This website has been invisibly watermarked to protect the copyright.