Core buildup

A core buildup replaces lost tooth structure, after decay, fracture or a root canal, so the crown preparation has enough to work with. It is its own procedure code (D2950) and its own line on a treatment plan.

After a root canal, the buildup matters for more than retention. One of the significant predictors of root canal success in the research Ryan reviewed is a satisfactory coronal restoration, so his advice is to place a bonded core while the rubber dam is still on, not to leave a temporary that can leak and reinfect the canals you just cleaned. Whether that core also needs a post depends on how much tooth is left (see endodontic post).

For the patient, the words do not help. Explaining that you will remove the old amalgam, place a composite core buildup, take a scan and make a zirconia crown is where the patient's brain shuts off; "that tooth is getting weak" is the version they understand.