Fiber Posts & Core Buildups
When a root canal is performed on a heavily damaged tooth, your dentist may recommend a fiber or gold post to be placed into the root canal system to be used as a retention mechanism for a buildup of the tooth made out of composite or gold. This will provide the adequate tooth structure that is needed to hold the future crown.
Fiber posts and core buildups are restorative dental procedures used to strengthen and support a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment or has significant decay.
Fiber Posts
- Purpose: Fiber posts are used to reinforce a tooth structure that has been weakened after a root canal treatment. They provide stability for the final restoration, such as a crown.
- Material: Made from composite materials or glass fibers, fiber posts are strong yet flexible, allowing for a more natural function and aesthetic appearance.
- Procedure: After the root canal is completed, a fiber post is inserted into the cleaned and shaped root canal space, providing a foundation for the core buildup.
Core Buildups
- Purpose: Core buildups are used to restore the shape and structure of a tooth after significant loss due to decay or after a root canal. They provide a solid base for further restoration with a crown.
- Material: Buildup materials can include composite resins or dental amalgam, which are molded to create the necessary tooth structure.
- Procedure: Once the fiber post is in place, the core material is applied around the post to rebuild the tooth’s structure, ensuring it can support the final restoration.
Benefits
- Strength: Fiber posts and core buildups enhance the strength and durability of the tooth, allowing it to withstand normal biting forces.
- Aesthetics: Fiber posts can be color-matched to the natural tooth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result.
- Longevity: These procedures help extend the life of the tooth, reducing the need for extraction.
Fiber posts and core buildups are essential components in restorative dentistry, ensuring that treated teeth can be effectively restored and function properly. If you have questions about these treatments, consult your dentist for personalized advice.
