Dental braces are an orthodontic treatment that uses metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth. They can correct a range of dental problems, from crooked teeth to overbites. Braces are usually recommended for children and teenagers but can also be used in adults. Many people who want to straighten their teeth ask if it is possible to get braces while they have crowns and bridges. In this blog post, we will discuss the answer to this question and mention other treatment options that can help improve your smile.
What is The Difference Between a Crown & Bridge?
Before discussing whether it is possible to get braces with crowns and bridges, it is important to know the difference between these two treatments, which will affect the answer.
Crowns are dental restorations placed over teeth to restore their shape, size, and strength. A dental crown covers one tooth and is not attached to adjacent teeth, when the tooth moves, the crown moves with it as a single unit.
On the other hand, bridges are dental prostheses that replace a missing tooth or teeth. A dental bridge consists of two or more crowns and a false tooth/teeth between them. The crowns are placed on the adjacent teeth to support the false tooth/teeth.
Unlike a dental crown, the bridge is attached to adjacent teeth and does not move independently.
Can You Get Braces With Crowns and Bridges?
It is possible to get braces with crowns, but it is not recommended with bridges. The reason for this is that braces are designed to move teeth, and bridge movement is limited, which could interfere with the treatment plan.
However, not all cases are the same, so it is best to consult with an orthodontist to know if you can get braces with your crowns ad bridges.
Dental braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are attached to the teeth. In cases where there are crowns present, the orthodontist will bond the brackets to them using a special technique. Then, the wires and brackets will be connected to create tension that gradually moves the teeth into position. You can read more about braces with crowns on teeth.
Braces with Crowns & Bridges Complications
It is important to be aware of some potential complications that could arise from braces with crowns and bridges.
- Brackets can become loose: Brackets adhere more firmly to natural teeth than crowns, because teeth are porous and provide a better bond. When brackets become loose, this can extend treatment time because additional visits to the dentist are required for reattachment.
- Crown chip or damage: The orthodontic force can cause a crown to chip or become damaged. This could require that the crown be replaced.
- A dark line at the gum line: With teeth movement, the edges of dental crowns can become visible, causing exposure of the underlying tooth. The dark line originates from the appearance of the crown edges where porcelain and metal meet. In this case, you may need to change the crown after the orthodontic treatment.
- Limited tooth movement: Braces are designed to move teeth into the desired position, but bridges are not designed to move and can limit teeth movement. In this case, bridges need to be removed before the orthodontic treatment.
Alternatives to Braces
If you have dental crowns or bridges and are considering orthodontic treatment, it is best to consult with an orthodontist to know the best treatment plan for you.
In some cases, alternative treatments may be recommended to achieve a better result than braces with crowns and bridges.
- Clear aligners: Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic trays to gradually move the teeth into the desired position. This is a great option for people who want to avoid metal braces, or have difficulties with crowns and bridges, as there are no brackets and wires to interfere. Clear aligners are effective in treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues. You can read more about Invisalign for overcrowded teeth.
- Dental veneers: Veneers are a cosmetic treatment that can be used to improve the appearance of the teeth and make them look straighter. They are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain or composite that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. Veneers cannot correct orthodontic issues, but they can be an effective way of achieving a straighter, more uniform smile. They are only recommended for minor orthodontic issues.
Braces with Crowns and Bridges – Conclusion
Braces can be used with crowns, but they are not recommended with bridges. Braces are designed to move teeth into the desired position, but bridges can limit tooth movement. So, bridges may need to be removed before treatment. It is best to consult with an orthodontist to know the best treatment plan for you.
Braces are not the only option available. Alternatives, such as clear aligners or dental veneers, might be suitable options if you have crowns or bridges, depending on the severity of your orthodontic problem.
