The Hidden Pillar: Understanding Core Build-ups vs. Post & Core
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When you are told you need a dental crown, most of the focus is on the final "cap"—how white it will be and how well it will fit. However, at Bigmouthten Dental Clinic, Chiang Mai, we know that the secret to a crown that lasts 20+ years isn't just the material on the outside; it’s The Core Support on the inside.
If your tooth is heavily decayed or has undergone a root canal, we must often reinforce its internal structure before the crown can be placed. This is done via a Core Build-up or a Post & Core.
What is a Core Build-up?
Think of a Core Build-up as restoring the "walls" of a tooth. When a tooth has a large cavity, we remove the decay, leaving a hollow space that needs a Structural Base.
The Process: We use a high-strength, tooth-colored composite resin to fill that space and shape it into a sturdy "stump."
The Goal: This provides the necessary height and surface area for the crown to "grip" onto. Without a proper core, the crown would have no internal stability.
What is a Post & Core?
When a tooth is severely broken down (sometimes right to the gum line), there isn't enough natural tooth left to even hold a build-up. This is common in teeth that have had a Root Canal.
The Process: We place a thin, medical-grade Fiber Post into the root canal space. This acts like "internal rebar" for the tooth. We then build the resin "core" around the part of the post that sticks out.
The Goal: The post anchors the core support deep into the root, ensuring the entire restoration doesn't snap off under chewing pressure.
| Feature | Core Build-up | Post & Core |
|---|---|---|
| Tooth Condition | Moderate damage; significant structure remains. | Substantial loss of tooth structure. |
| Root Canal? | Not always necessary. | Usually required (to house the post). |
| Main Benefit | Quick and conservative. | Maximum retention for broken teeth. |
| Specialist Choice | Composite Resin. | Fiber Post + Composite Resin. |
| Pricing (2026) | ฿3,500 – ฿4,500 | ฿4,500 – ฿6,000 |
Note: Prices may be subject to change based on individual requirements. Please contact our admin team for a personalized quotation.
Do We Need It for All Cases ?
No. We only recommend these procedures when there is a clinical indication. If your tooth is relatively healthy and only needs a crown for cosmetic reasons or to fix a small crack, we may be able to shape your natural enamel into the necessary base without any extra reinforcement.
At Bigmouthten, we utilize these techniques when:
Structural Loss: A significant portion of the tooth is missing.
Post-Root Canal: Because root-treated teeth are often hollowed out, they typically require a core build-up to restore their strength.
Mechanical Necessity: If the tooth is too short to hold a crown securely on its own.
Summary for Patients
A dental crown is like a beautiful home, but the Core Build-up or Post & Core is the internal framework that holds it up. By ensuring the "inside" of your tooth is stable, we guarantee that your new smile is built for long-term success.