Core Buildup & Post and Core Restorations

Core Buildup & Post and Core in Knoxville, TN – Building a Lasting Foundation

Not every tooth is ready to support a crown on its own. When a tooth has been weakened by decay, trauma, or root canal treatment, additional support may be needed before placing a restoration. That’s where core buildups and post-and-core restorations come in.

At Cornerstone Dental Arts, our experienced team uses these proven techniques to strengthen your tooth’s foundation so your crown can function properly and last for years.

What Is a Core Buildup?

A core buildup is a procedure that rebuilds missing tooth structure using a strong filling material, usually composite or dental cement. It:

• Provides a solid base for a crown

• Restores the natural shape of the tooth

• Improves retention and stability of the final restoration

Core buildups are often needed when more than half of the natural tooth structure has been lost.

What Is a Post and Core?

When a tooth has undergone root canal treatment and very little structure remains, a post and core may be required. A small post is placed inside the treated root canal to anchor the restoration, and a core buildup is placed around it to rebuild the tooth’s shape. This ensures the crown has a strong, secure foundation.

Benefits of Core Buildup & Post and Core Treatments

• Strengthen teeth that would otherwise be unable to hold a crown

• Improve the longevity and success of crown restorations

• Restore function for chewing and speaking

• Provide stability even in severely weakened teeth

• Allow patients to keep natural teeth that might otherwise require extraction

What to Expect During Treatment

1. Evaluation: Your dentist will assess your tooth to determine if a buildup or post is necessary.

2. Preparation: Decayed or weakened areas are cleaned, and the base of the tooth is prepared.

3. Placement: Core material or a post (if needed) is placed to rebuild support.

4. Crown Placement: Once reinforced, your tooth will be ready for a crown to restore full function.

The process is efficient, comfortable, and ensures your crown performs at its best.

Why It Matters at Cornerstone Dental Arts

We believe in saving and strengthening natural teeth whenever possible. Core buildups and post-and-core restorations allow us to restore even severely compromised teeth with confidence, helping patients keep their smiles functional and natural-looking for many years.