Much of dentistry focuses on procedures to restore damaged teeth. Some of these procedures, like fillings and crowns, are commonly understood by most people.
One less discussed, but equally important procedure is the 'core buildup,' often recommended when a tooth needs significant restoration. But what exactly is it?
Understanding Core Buildup
A core buildup is a restorative dental procedure where a dentist rebuilds a tooth using dental filling materials. The primary purpose of this is to replace a significant portion of a decayed or damaged tooth to support further restoration procedures, like the placement of a crown.
Unlike a standard filling, which typically addresses smaller cavities, a core buildup deals with more extensive damage, essentially forming a new "core" for the tooth. This new structure provides strength and support, ensuring that any further restoration, like a crown, can be placed securely and last longer.
Reasons for Needing a Core Buildup
There are several situations in which a dentist might recommend a core buildup:
Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth has been heavily compromised by decay, there might not be enough of its original structure left to support a crown or other restorations. A crown goes over the top of the tooth — but if there isn’t enough tooth underneath, this interim step is required. A core buildup can provide the necessary support.
Fractured Teeth: Accidents or excessive force can cause teeth to fracture. If the fracture is extensive but the tooth is deemed salvageable, a core buildup can restore its structural integrity.
Pre-Crown Preparation: Before placing a crown, especially if the tooth has had a root canal or significant decay, a dentist might advise a core buildup to ensure the crown has a stable foundation.
Procedure Overview
The process of a core buildup typically involves:
Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth: The dentist will begin by removing all decay and any old fillings from the tooth.
Placement of a Post (if necessary): If a substantial portion of the tooth is missing, especially after a root canal, a post might be placed into the tooth's root to offer additional support.
Applying the Buildup Material: The dentist will then apply and shape a dental filling material (often composite resin, a glass ionomer, or dental amalgam) to rebuild the tooth's core.
Curing and Finalizing: Using a special light, the material is hardened, after which the dentist will shape and polish the buildup to prepare for any further restoration.
Rough Cost Estimate
The cost of a core buildup can vary based on several factors, including the dentist's experience, geographic location, and the complexity of the procedure.
On average, one might expect a core buildup to cost anywhere between $200 to $500, though prices can be outside this range. The national median price of a core buildup is ~$320 at the time of publishing this article.
It's essential to consult with your dentist and possibly get a second opinion to understand the costs better.
Potential Complications and Aftercare
While core buildups are generally safe and effective, potential issues can arise, like sensitivity or discomfort. Ensuring proper oral hygiene and adhering to the dentist's post-operative instructions can mitigate these risks. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure the longevity and success of the procedure.
Importantly, you should know that a core buildup is not a definitive “fix” for a tooth. Rather, it is an intermediate step to stabilize a tooth and prepare it for a crown.
Until the final crown is placed on the tooth, you should be careful not to use the tooth for anything aggressive.
Avoid chewing hard, sticky foods
Avoid chewing gum
Final Thoughts
Understanding the various procedures in dentistry, like the core buildup, empowers patients to make informed decisions about their oral health.
Whether you’re here because you saw the confusing “D2950 Core Buildup” code, or because your dentist told you the tooth needed a core buildup before a crown, we’re hopefully that this article answered your questions!
FAQs
What is the difference between a filling and a core buildup?
A filling and a core buildup are both restorative dental procedures, but they address different extents of dental issues.
A filling is typically used to treat minor to moderate tooth decay or cavities by filling in the removed decayed area, thereby restoring the tooth's structure. A core buildup, on the other hand, is done when there's significant loss of the tooth's structure, often due to severe decay or fractures.
While fillings treat smaller cavities, core buildups rebuild a larger portion of the tooth to provide a stable foundation for further restorative procedures like crowns.
What is included in a core buildup?
A core buildup involves several steps:
Removal of Decay: Initially, the dentist will remove any decay and old fillings from the tooth.
Possible Post Placement: If a large part of the tooth is missing, especially after a root canal, a post might be placed into the tooth's root for additional support.
Application of Buildup Material: The dentist will then use a filling material, often composite resin or dental amalgam, to rebuild the core of the tooth.
Curing and Finalizing: The material is then hardened, typically with a special light, and the buildup is shaped and polished to prepare it for any subsequent restorative procedures.
How long does a core buildup last?
In most cases, the core buildup should last as long (or longer) than the crown that goes on top of it. The longevity of a core buildup can vary based on several factors, including the material used, the quality of the procedure, the patient's oral hygiene practices, and the forces exerted on the tooth (like chewing hard foods or grinding). It is designed to be a durable foundation for further restorations like crowns.
What is the difference between post and core buildup?
A post and core buildup are closely related but serve slightly different purposes:
Post: A post is a thin metal or fiber rod inserted into the root of a tooth after a root canal treatment. It provides additional support when a significant amount of the tooth's crown is missing. The post anchors the core material and any subsequent restoration, like a crown, to the tooth.
Core Buildup: Once the post is placed (if needed), the core material (like composite resin) is used to build up the tooth's structure. This rebuilt structure serves as the foundation upon which a crown or other restoration can be placed.
In essence, while the post offers deep-rooted support, the core buildup replaces and restores the visible, functional part of the tooth.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.