Are crowns the only choice after a root canal?

I had a root canal when I was 12 years old after a car accident and I am now 24 years old. The tooth the root canal was preformed on is still in place but I notice slight discoloring towards the top. Is a crown the only option for the discoloring, since it is under the tooth and not a matter of whitening products/procedures? I have nice/strong teeth and I dont really want a crown but I am not sure what are my options.

Are crowns the only choice after a root canal?
CO,


FYI EVERY TOOTH THAT HAD A ROOT CANAL DRIES OUT AND IS PRONE TO FRACTURE.


THE ENTIRE TOOTH STRUCTURE MUST BE PROTECTED BY A CROWN OR YOU RISK BREAKAGE.


THE FINAL CROWN OF THE CROWN WILL MATCH YOUR TEETH


PS. ANY FURTHER BLEACHING ONLY DRIES THE TOOTH MORE AND FURTHERS FRACTURE RISKS.
Reply:first of all, where in your mouth is the tooth with the root canal? if it's a front tooth then you can have an internal bleaching done by certain dentists. after root canals, it is common to have some discoloration. they open a hole in the back of the tooth and put a kind of "bleach" in it and close it back up temporarily and see you in a week or two. another application may be necessary. when it is the desired color, they fill the hole permanently. their isn't a crown involved in this procedure. good luck!
Reply:First I would have it checked out... a tooth that has had a root canal can still sometimes get decay in it. If it IS simply discoloration, then I think your only choice is indeed a crown.