Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Prefabricated Post and Core
• Technical/Medical Term(s): HCPCS Procedure D2954

Summary

The prefabricated post and core procedure involves placing a prefabricated post into a tooth root to provide support for a crown. This is done when a tooth is too damaged to hold a crown on its own.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Severe tooth decay, root canal-treated tooth, fractured tooth
• Goals: Strengthen and stabilize the tooth structure, provide a foundation for a dental crown, restore tooth function and aesthetics

Indications

• Tooth too damaged for a crown to be placed directly
• Lack of sufficient natural tooth structure to retain a crown
• Endodontically treated teeth requiring additional support

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: May include oral hygiene recommendations such as brushing and flossing, avoiding certain foods or beverages before the appointment.
• Diagnostic Tests: X-rays or dental scans to determine the condition of the tooth root and surrounding bone structure.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
2. Decay Removal: Any decayed tooth material is removed.
3. Post Placement: A prefabricated post is inserted into the root canal.
4. Core Building: Material is used to build up the core around the post.
5. Crown Placement: Once the post and core are secure, a dental crown is placed over the tooth.
   • Tools: Prefabricated posts, dental cement, core build-up materials, and standard dental tools.
   • Technology: Dental X-rays, potential use of digital scanning tools.

Duration

Typically completed within 1 to 1.5 hours.

Setting

Performed in a dental office, clinic, or outpatient dental facility.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Dentist (possibly a specialist such as an endodontist), Dental Assistant, Dental Hygienist

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minimal risks but can include sensitivity, minor swelling, discomfort
• Rare Risks: Infection, post failure, damage to the surrounding teeth or tissue
• Complication Management: Antibiotics for infection, adjustments for post or crown issues

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Restored tooth function, improved aesthetics, longer-lasting dental work
• Realization: Benefits are typically immediate after the procedure, with full function restored once numbness wears off.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Good oral hygiene practices, avoid hard or sticky foods immediately after the procedure
• Recovery Time: Generally, patients can return to normal activities within a day
• Follow-up: Regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition

Alternatives

• Other Options: Direct core build-up, extraction with possible dental implant
• Pros and Cons: Core build-up may not be as strong; dental implants involve a more invasive and longer process.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Likely to feel pressure, but no pain due to local anesthesia
• After Procedure: Some mild discomfort or sensitivity managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, comfort improves rapidly within a few days