Post & Core

Restored Stability for Your Tooth at French Smiles

When a tooth has been severely damaged by decay, trauma, or infection, simply placing a crown over it may not be enough. If too much of the natural tooth structure is missing, the crown needs something to hold onto. That is where post and core treatment comes in. At French Smiles in Snellville, GA, Dr. Robert French uses this proven restorative technique to rebuild compromised teeth from the inside out, giving them the structural support they need to hold a permanent crown and function reliably for years to come.

What Is Post and Core Treatment?

Post and core is a two-part dental procedure designed to restore a tooth that lacks sufficient structure to support a crown on its own. This situation most commonly arises after a root canal, though it can also result from extensive tooth decay, a fracture, or a large broken-down filling.

The procedure involves two components working together. The post is a small rod, typically made of metal or fiber-reinforced resin, that is inserted into one of the tooth’s root canals after root canal therapy has been completed. It acts as an anchor, extending down into the root to provide a stable base.

The core is the filling material built up around the post. Together, they recreate the bulk and shape of the original tooth structure, giving the dental crown a solid foundation to bond to. Without this foundation, a crown placed over a severely damaged tooth would be at risk of failure. Post and core treatment in Snellville at French Smiles ensures that your restored tooth can handle the everyday demands of biting and chewing with confidence.

When Is Post and Core Necessary?

Not every tooth that receives a crown needs a post and core. Dr. French will evaluate your specific situation to determine whether this additional step is appropriate. Generally, post and core treatment is recommended when:

• A significant portion of the tooth’s natural crown has been lost due to decay or fracture
• The remaining tooth structure is too thin or weak to retain a crown without added support
• A previous restoration has failed, leaving little usable tooth behind
• A tooth has undergone root canal therapy and has minimal remaining structure above the gumline

In these cases, skipping the post and core step could result in the crown becoming loose or the tooth breaking, which would ultimately require extraction. Post and core gives the tooth its best chance at long-term survival.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Post and core treatment at French Smiles is typically completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. Because the procedure is performed on a tooth that has already received a root canal, the root is no longer sensitive, and most patients experience little to no discomfort during the process.

Dr. French will begin by preparing the root canal space to receive the post. The post is then bonded securely into the canal. Core material is applied and shaped around the post to build up the tooth to the proper dimensions. Once the core has set, the tooth is prepared for the final crown, which is fabricated and placed in a subsequent visit. Throughout the process, Dr. French takes care to ensure your comfort and to explain each step clearly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Post and Core

How long does a post and core last?

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a post and core can last for many years. The long-term success also depends on the quality of the crown placed on top and how well you care for your overall oral health.

Is post and core the same as a root canal?

No. A root canal removes the infected pulp tissue from inside the tooth. Post and core treatment comes after a root canal and is focused on rebuilding the tooth structure so that it can support a crown.

Will my insurance cover post and core?

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for post and core treatment when it is deemed medically necessary. Our team at French Smiles will help you understand your benefits and what to expect before treatment begins.

Does the procedure hurt?

Because post and core is performed on a tooth that has already had a root canal, the nerve has been removed and the area is no longer sensitive. Most patients find the procedure quite manageable.

Rebuild Your Smile With Confidence

A severely damaged tooth does not always have to mean a lost tooth. With post and core treatment in Snellville, Dr. Robert French can help you preserve your natural smile and restore full function to a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. French Smiles is proud to offer this level of restorative care to patients throughout Snellville, Grayson, Loganville, Monroe, and Lawrenceville. To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact French Smiles today. We look forward to helping you protect and rebuild your smile.