My insurance won’t cover a tooth post for my right incisor, even though my dentist says it will help save my tooth. My insurance will pay 50% for a crown, but not the $640 post and core. Are a post and core necessary? How long might a tooth last if I decline? – Thank you – Phil from Dover, DE
Piper,
Thank you for your question.
Keep in mind that insurance companies often aim to provide benefits for the least expensive treatment. Your dentist is concerned about preserving your tooth.
What Are a Dental Post and Core?
A dental post is a thin, often flexible, tube that a dentist inserts your tooth. A core is a filling material that builds up your tooth in preparation for a dental crown. The combination of a post and core stabilizes and strengthens a weak tooth.
Why Would a Dentist Recommend It?
Tooth post and core to prepare for a crown and prevent the need for an implant
A dentist may recommend a post and core after root canal treatment or if you lack healthy tooth structure for supporting a dental crown. The procedure will ensure the crown stays in place.
- The procedure includes these steps:
- Root canal treatment to remove decay and infection
- Insert a post deep into the tooth
- Fill the tooth with material to stabilize the post
- Apply dental bonding to the tooth to shape it like a natural tooth that is ready for a crown
- Bond the crown to the built-up tooth
What Might Happen If You Refuse the Post and Core?
If you refuse a dental post and core, these concerns may result:
- Bonding a crown to a weak tooth can irritate or weaken the tooth and lead to infection.
- The tooth may require removal.
- Your dentist may need to replace the tooth with a dental implant and crown. The implant, crown, and associated fees can cost up to $5,000.
Your dentist’s approach protects your tooth for the future and saves you the time and expense of more costly procedures. If you are still unsure about your dentist’s treatment recommendations, you can schedule a second opinion with an advanced cosmetic dentist and ask for an examination of your tooth and x-rays.
Petaluma, California, dentist Dr. Rick Lane sponsors this post.