Dental posts, also known as dental posts and cores, are used in restorative dentistry to provide additional support and retention for dental crowns when a natural tooth has been significantly damaged or has lost a significant portion of its structure. Here's how dental posts work and when they may be used:

How Dental Posts Work:

1. Diagnosis: When a tooth has extensive damage due to decay, fracture, or multiple restorations, a dentist may determine that a dental crown is necessary to restore its form and function.

2. Tooth Preparation: In cases where the remaining natural tooth structure is insufficient to support a crown, the dentist may prepare the tooth by removing any remaining decay and shaping it to accommodate a dental post.

3. Dental Post Placement: A dental post is a small, typically metallic (often made of materials like titanium or stainless steel), screw-like structure that is inserted into the prepared root canal space of the tooth. The post extends out of the tooth and serves as an anchor for the core buildup and crown.

4. Core Buildup: A core material, usually a strong dental filling material or composite resin, is built up around the dental post within the tooth to create a stable foundation for the crown.

5. Crown Placement: Once the core buildup has set, a dental crown is custom-made to fit over the tooth. The crown is cemented or bonded onto the core, covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.

When Dental Posts Are Used:

Dental posts are typically used in the following situations:

1. Severely Damaged Teeth: When a tooth has extensive damage or decay, dental posts can help provide additional stability and retention for a crown.

2. Large Cavities: In cases where a significant portion of a tooth has been affected by a cavity, a dental post may be used to reinforce the remaining tooth structure.

3. Fractured Teeth: If a tooth has a fracture that extends below the gumline, a dental post can help hold the tooth together and support a crown.

4. Root Canal-Treated Teeth: After root canal therapy, a tooth may require a dental post to strengthen it and support a crown since the tooth's inner structure may have been removed during the root canal procedure.

It's important to note that the decision to use a dental post depends on the specific clinical circumstances of the tooth and the judgment of the dentist. Modern dentistry emphasizes a conservative approach that aims to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible, so the use of dental posts is considered when there are no other viable options for restoring a tooth.

Dental posts are just one component of the overall treatment plan, and they are used in conjunction with dental crowns to restore the appearance and function of a damaged tooth. The choice of post material and technique is determined by the dentist based on factors like the tooth's location, the extent of damage, and the patient's individual needs.