Are you on the fence about getting Braces because you’ve recently had crowns or bridges? You’ve come to the right place, and we’re here to help you navigate through this dental maze.

Here’s the usual drill: Dentists shave off some enamel, fill the tooth with a durable substance to enhance its structure, and then crown it for protection. During the braces treatment, the orthodontist keeps a close eye on the tooth’s stability as it shifts into the right position.

When braces are applied, they can potentially move a tooth with a crown or filling. However, as long as the root remains intact, there’s no harm done. Bridges, which move as a single unit, require a deft hand to align correctly after tooth loss.

Ready to debunk myths and discover truths about combining braces with crowns? We’re about to dive into:

• The implications of dental crowns for braces
• The feasibility of getting braces with a crown
• Alternatives to braces with crowns

Let’s jump right in!

The Basics of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, or caps, are the superheroes of the dental world, swooping in to restore the shape of cracked, chipped, or broken teeth when fillings just aren’t enough. Crafted from porcelain or ceramics, they require no special care beyond good oral hygiene.

Bridges, on the other hand, are a team of artificial teeth joined by crowns, filling the gap left by missing teeth. They work together, moving as one unit and providing support on either side.

Reasons for getting a dental crown

Tooth decay: If a tooth is severely decayed, it may require a crown to restore its shape and function.

Tooth damage: If a tooth

– cracks

– breaks

– undergoes root canal therapy

a dentist can place a crown can over it to protect and strengthen the remaining tooth structure.

Cosmetic reasons: Crowns improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. Bridges can fill gaps between missing teeth to enhance the smile’s overall appearance.

Bite alignment: Crowns or bridges help correct bite problems caused by missing or damaged teeth. It restores proper alignment and function.

Dental implants: When placed on top of dental implants, crowns or bridges replace missing teeth.

A fascinating array of dental crowns

Our smile is a testament to our unique personality, and dental crowns play a significant role in this. Let’s explore some of the types of dental crowns that are available:

• Porcelain Crowns: Crafted from ceramic, these crowns can mimic your natural tooth color seamlessly. They’re a popular choice for front teeth, enhancing your smile without giving away their secret.
• Metal Crowns: Harnessing the durability of gold, palladium, or other metal alloys, these crowns are the guardians of your back teeth, which bear the brunt of chewing.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Balancing the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, these crowns are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth.

Is it Possible to Get Braces if You Have a Crown?

You might think that having a dental crown means you can’t get braces. Well, it’s time to bust that myth! You absolutely can get braces even if you have dental crowns. Let’s dive into the three main options you have for braces when you have crowns.

1. Traditional Front-Facing Braces: These are the classic metal braces we all know, attached to the front surface of the teeth with brackets and wires.
2. Lingual Braces: These braces are a little more incognito, attached to the back surface of the teeth. They’re less noticeable than traditional braces but might be a bit trickier to clean and adjust, and could cause some discomfort.
3. Removable Clear Aligners: These are custom-made clear plastic trays that fit snuggly over your teeth and gradually shift them into place. They’re nearly invisible and can be removed when eating or brushing.

So, How Do Braces Work With Crowns Exactly?

Braces can indeed work with crowns and bridges, thanks to a unique adhesive that doesn’t damage the restoration. When attaching braces to veneers, they’re usually placed on the back of the teeth for greater effectiveness. In some instances, dental implants can also be used as anchors to offer support to neighboring teeth. And in rare cases, an implant might even be removed and replaced after treatment with braces.

Why Should You Assess the Condition of Your Crown Before Getting Braces?

Before you jump into the braces bandwagon, it’s crucial to assess the condition of your crown. This is a non-negotiable step to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the orthodontic treatment. If your crown is damaged, weak, or poorly fitted, it might not be able to withstand the force exerted by braces, leading to further damage or even failure of the crown.

Additionally, getting braces on a crown can sometimes increase the risk of infection or other dental complications. So, evaluating the crown beforehand will help you avoid any nasty surprises down the line and help your dentist determine the best treatment approach for your pearly whites.

Common issues faced while applying braces over crowns

Applying braces to a crown can pose certain risks to the patient’s dental health.

• Braces place pressure on the teeth, causing the crown to loosen, break or even fall off.
• The adhesive used to attach the brackets to the crown may damage the crown’s surface, leading to further dental problems.
• It can also cause damage to the surrounding gum tissue, causing:
• inflammation
• bleeding
• gum recession.

Will my crown get damaged if I get braces with the crown?

Orthodontic treatment normally doesn’t affect existing dental work as long as:

– The restoration is secure and healthy

– The orthodontist has the necessary expertise.

However, progress may be slower, and you may need to put extra care during bracket application and removal.

Alternative to braces for teeth with crowns

Clear aligners like Invisalign can be a great alternative to braces for teeth with crowns. Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners to shift teeth into place gradually. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable and custom-made, making them smooth over your existing dental work. That, too, without causing damage or affecting their integrity.

However, it is essential to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.

Pros and cons of using clear aligners

Invisalign aligners are transparent, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. You can remove them, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and eat the foods you love. Since they are made of smooth plastic, Invisalign reduces the likelihood of mouth irritation or discomfort.

However, clear aligners come with various disadvantages. They require self-discipline. You need to wear them for at least 20-22 hours every day to ensure successful treatment. Additionally, Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional metal braces and requires frequent changes. Besides, clear aligners may not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases that require more extensive treatment.

Conclusion: A few more things to keep in mind when getting braces with crown

Hope this blog helps you understand:

• What crowns and bridges are
• Can you get braces with a crown and its implications and risks
• And possible alternatives to braces if you have crowns.

Generally, crowns, bridges, or any other restorations don’t interfere with braces. Yet, you should always consult a certified orthodontist and let him evaluate the condition of your crown before diving headlong. In addition, remember to:

• Evaluate both metal braces and Invisalign thoroughly, then decide which suits you.
• Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss daily to prevent the accumulation of plaque or further decay