A dental post is different from an orthodontic post. Dental posts are one of the options that may be suggested after root canal treatment because they play an important role in restoring a tooth that has lost a large portion due to decay and cannot support a dental crown on its own due to insufficient remaining tooth structure.
In such cases, there are only two choices either extracting the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant, or performing root canal treatment and placing a post, core, and crown. Since natural teeth are a gift from God, many patients prefer preserving their teeth instead of extraction.
Tooth loss doesn’t only affect appearance but also impacts oral functions such as chewing and speech. Fortunately, dental posts offer an effective solution for restoring lost tooth structure and regaining the mouth’s vital functions. In this guide, Wonders Dentistry explains everything you need to know about dental posts — their types, steps, and how to care for them.
What Is a Dental Post?
A dental post is a structure fixed inside the root canal to act as an artificial root that supports a replacement tooth. Posts are used to restore teeth after root canal therapy or to support dental restorations such as crowns and bridges.
A post is type of dental prosthetics placed inside the treated root canal after root canal treatment, with part of it extending into the upper portion of the tooth to provide retention and stability for the core, which is then built up to support the artificial crown.
This post and core procedure is required when there isn’t enough natural tooth structure above the gum line to support a crown made from porcelain, E-max, or zirconia. The process requires prior root canal treatment to allow the post to be placed inside the root canal.
The post is fixed in the root using frictional retention between the post surface and the inner surface of the root canal, along with special dental cements designed for post fixation. Afterward, a core is built on top of the post using composite or other suitable materials to hold the final crown.
In short, the post’s main role is to prepare and reinforce the tooth structure, distribute chewing forces along the root and crown, and reduce the risk of crown fracture. However, the post itself does not strengthen the tooth — in some cases, improper preparation or placement can even increase the risk of root fracture.
Summary of the Post, Core, and Crown Procedure
- Root canal treatment of the affected tooth.
- Measuring the remaining tooth structure to determine whether the tooth needs a post, core, and crown, or only a crown.
- Preparing the tooth for post placement.
- Inserting the post into the prepared canal and cementing it in place.
- Building a core around the top of the post to hold the crown.
- Shaping the core to receive the crown.
- Taking impressions for the final crown.
- Trying in the selected crown for fit and shade.
- Cementing the crown permanently over the core.
Difference Between a Dental Post and a Dental Implant
While a dental post refers to the part that connects the implant (artificial root) to the crown (artificial tooth), a dental implant itself is the metal screw inserted into the jawbone.
In other words the implant is the foundation inside the bone, and the post is the connector between the implant and the crown.
When Do You Need a Dental Post?
Dental posts are used in the following situations:
- Immediately after tooth extraction: to prevent bone loss around the missing tooth area.
- Cases of weak jawbone: when the bone isn’t strong enough to support an implant directly.
- Before bridge placement: to provide additional support for the dental bridge.
- To stabilize mobile teeth: to strengthen teeth that have excessive movement.
- When there’s sufficient tooth structure above the gumline to support a crown.
- When there’s adequate canal length to place the post securely.
- When the root canal shape allows for safe post placement.
- When there’s enough dentin in the root to prepare it for the post.
Risks of Placing a Post Inside the Root Canal
- Possible root perforation during post space preparation.
- Increased risk of root fracture.
- If complications occur with root canal treatment later, it becomes difficult for the dentist to retreat the canal through the post, often requiring post removal, which can cause further loss of tooth structure.
The Latest Types of Dental Posts
Dental posts vary depending on the materials used in their construction, including:
1- Titanium Posts:
The most common type, known for strength, durability, and excellent biocompatibility with body tissues.
2- Zirconium Posts:
Characterized by their tooth-colored, white shade that blends with natural teeth — ideal for anterior teeth. They’re very strong but slightly more brittle.
3- Bio-polymer Posts:
Made of lightweight biocompatible materials that are flexible and tissue-friendly.
4- Mini-Implant Posts:
Smaller in size, used when bone availability is limited or to support dentures.
5- Smart Posts:
Equipped with sensors that monitor oral health and pressure levels on the implant, helping detect potential problems early.
Steps of Dental Post Placement
The process of installing a dental post involves several stages:
Diagnosis and 3D Imaging: To assess the bone condition and determine the optimal implant site.
Local Anesthesia: To ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
Site Preparation: A small opening is made in the bone to place the implant.
Post Fixation: The metallic screw (implant) is inserted into the bone.
Healing Period (3–6 months): The implant is left to fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration.
Final Restoration: The crown or bridge is placed on top of the post after confirming complete healing and stability.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Posts
Advantages:
- Restore natural oral functions such as chewing and speech.
- Improve appearance, especially with zirconium posts that resemble natural teeth.
- Preserve jawbone by preventing bone loss after tooth extraction.
- Long-term durability when properly maintained.
Disadvantages:
- High cost, particularly with advanced materials like zirconium.
- Requires a surgical procedure, which may cause discomfort for some patients.
- Long healing period, needing patience and commitment from the patient.
Aftercare Instructions Following Dental Post Placement
To ensure successful healing after dental post placement, follow these guidelines:
Within the First 48 Hours:
- Avoid hard or hot foods to prevent irritation or bleeding.
- Get enough rest and avoid physical exertion to promote healing.
Allowed and Prohibited Foods:
- Allowed: Soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.
- Prohibited: Hard or sticky foods that may disturb the implant site.
Proper Cleaning Method:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean teeth gently.
- Use dental floss to remove food debris between teeth.
Follow-up Appointments:
- Schedule regular visits to your dentist to monitor the post’s stability and healing progress.
Does a Dental Post Hurt When Placed?
Patients who have undergone root canal treatment typically don’t feel pain because the nerve responsible for sensation has been removed. They may only feel slight pressure, which is usually well tolerated.
Sometimes, the dentist may use oral sedation for anxious patients or in special circumstances.
Cost of Dental Posts in Egypt
The cost of a dental post in Egypt ranges between EGP 400 and 2,000, depending on the material used and the complexity of the case.
Final Note
Dental posts offer an effective solution for restoring damaged or missing teeth and regaining natural oral functions. With modern advancements in dental technology, there are now many options to suit different patient needs.
It’s essential to consult your Wonders Dentistry specialist to choose the most suitable treatment and ensure long-term success.
