Can they reuse my old gold crown after a root canal?

In general, dentists do not reuse old gold crowns after a root canal. Once a gold crown is removed from a tooth, it cannot be safely reused. There are several reasons for this:

1. Potential Contamination: During a root canal, the dentist accesses the pulp chamber and root canals of the tooth to remove infected or damaged pulp. This process can involve drilling through the crown and exposing it to bacteria and other contaminants. Reusing a crown that has been exposed to these contaminants could introduce infection into the tooth or surrounding tissues.

2. Compromised Fit: Once a crown is removed, it may no longer fit the tooth properly. This is especially true if the tooth has undergone a root canal, as the shape of the tooth can change slightly during the procedure. Refitting an old crown that no longer fits correctly could lead to problems with biting, chewing, and oral hygiene.

3. Reduced Strength: Removing a crown from a tooth can weaken the structure of the tooth, making it more susceptible to fracture. Reusing a crown on a weakened tooth could increase the risk of breakage and further damage to the tooth.

Instead of reusing an old gold crown after a root canal, your dentist will likely recommend a new crown to be placed on the treated tooth. This ensures the best possible fit, prevents infection, and restores the strength and functionality of the tooth.