Post-Retained Crown Vs. Implant

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There are a couple different ways to replace a missing tooth. You can decide on a dental bridge or an implant. There is also something called a post and crown. If it seems like the only way you will be able to understand all the dental treatments available today is to become a dentist, not true. Today we explain the differences between a post-retained crown and an implant.

What Is a Post-Retained Crown?

A post-retained crown can also be referred to as a post-and-crown, post-and-core, post, or dental post. A post and crown may be relied upon instead of a crown or an implant in the following cases:

  • When there is not enough tooth structure left to maintain a crown.
  • To stabilize a weakened tooth.
  • After a root canal.
  • If the nerve is exposed.
  • If there is decay below the gum line.

How it’s Done

The root of the tooth remains in the gum during a post-retained crown procedure. A small rod or post is inserted into the root canal with some of it protruding above the gum line. The post above the gum line serves to anchor a crown or sometimes a large filling. Because the post is inserted into the root canal, a root canal procedure is required first. Once the pulp has been removed from the canals, disinfected, and filled with gutta percha, the post is then placed.

An Implant

In the case of an implant procedure, the tooth is extracted and a titanium post surgically inserted into the jaw bone where the tooth originally was. Once the titanium post osseointegrates, or locks, into the jaw bone, it is as stable as the original root and is ready to be crowned.

ABOUT YOUR FORT WORTH, TX DENTIST:

With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact his Fort Worth, TX office today by calling 817-918-3038.