What does “Dental post” mean?
A dental post is a rod-shaped restorative structure placed in the space inside a root to retain a core in a root canal-treated tooth. It is not needed in every root canal-treated tooth.
When is it needed?
It is considered when extensive loss of natural coronal tooth structure makes core retention difficult. If enough tooth walls remain, restoration without a post may be possible.
Does it make the tooth stronger?
Its main role is core retention. Preparing the post space may reduce tooth tissue, so it should not be described as invariably strengthening the root.
What conditions are checked?
Root length, thickness, and curvature, the root canal filling, and remaining coronal tissue are assessed. Planning should secure the necessary retention and canal seal while minimizing tissue damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a longer post better?
Increasing length alone is not the answer. Root shape and the filling material and tooth structure to be retained must be considered.
Is it left in place during endodontic retreatment?
Post removal may be needed to access the canal again. The difficulty of removal and risk of damage vary with its material and structure.
Questions about a dental post
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Are there insufficient tooth walls to retain the core?
Explanation and evidenceConfirm why a post is needed based on the remaining tissue.
British Dental Journal · Principles Guiding the Restoration of the Root-filled Tooth - A choice suited to your condition
Can the canal seal and root thickness be preserved?
Explanation and evidenceSpace preparation and the final restoration are planned together.
British Dental Journal · Principles Guiding the Restoration of the Root-filled Tooth
