Reinforcement of endodontically treated teeth

Endodontic treatment is largely performed on teeth significantly affected by caries, multiple repeat restorations and/or fracture. Already structurally weakened, such teeth are often further weakened by the endodontic procedures designed to provide optimal access and by the restorative procedures necessary to rebuild the tooth. Root canal treatment weakens tooth structure and predisposes teeth to fracture. Root filled teeth are more susceptible to fracture than teeth with intact pulps because of loss of tooth structure due to caries, trauma and root canal preparation. Use of intracanal medicament and few irrigants also contributes to decrease in fracture resistance of tooth. In addition lateral compaction creates stresses in the root during obturation, which could lead to subsequent fracture.