Can You Get Braces with a Crown? What to Expect

Dental crowns are used for restoring missing or weakened teeth that have been affected by decay or damage. They are often used in combination with other treatments and procedures. For example, a crown can be used to replace a missing tooth as part of a dental implant or it can be used to protect a tooth following a root canal treatment.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, then you will be pleased to know that it is even possible to get braces with a crown. 

Orthodontic treatment is often used to enhance the aesthetic appearance of your teeth while also improving your dental health. If you have had a crown fitted and are considering orthodontic treatment, certain factors need to be taken into consideration. 

Crowns are made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and understanding how these restorations interact with braces is essential for a successful outcome. In this article, we’ll explore the details of what you can expect when getting braces with a crown, helping you make an informed decision about your dental care.

Dental Crowns and Their Impact on Orthodontic Treatment

If you are considering orthodontic treatment with dental crowns, it is essential to remember the purpose of your crown. For example, crowns placed on teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can be moved using braces. This is because the pressure is targeted to the bone and surrounding tissues of the tooth, which are still mobile, and can be guided into a neater formation.

On the other hand, crowns placed on dental implants cannot be moved with braces. This is because dental implants are fixed into the jawbone, and the crown, which sits on top of the implant, is also fixed in place. You can still undergo orthodontic treatment to move the natural teeth around the implant and create a straighter, healthier smile. 

How Braces Attach to Teeth with Crowns

Attaching braces to teeth with crowns requires careful planning. Braces consist of brackets that are fixed to the teeth’ surfaces. Brackets for crowns may need to be custom-made or use a specialized bonding technique to ensure a stable and secure attachment. 

The crown’s material is also a critical factor, as it must be compatible with the orthodontic appliances to prevent damage or complications during treatment. For instance, metal crowns require different preparation methods from porcelain or ceramic crowns to ensure that the brackets are attached correctly while avoiding damage to the crown. 

Consultation with Professionals

If you are considering orthodontic treatment with a crown, then you will need to undergo a thorough consultation with your orthodontist. They will evaluate your overall dental health, the condition of your crown, and your suitability for the treatment. For example, if your crowns are old or show signs of wear and tear, the orthodontist may suggest repairing or replacing them before beginning orthodontic treatment. They will also examine the type and material of your crown to put together a suitable treatment plan for you.

Adjustments and Preparations

Once a treatment plan has been put together for you, specific adjustments and preparations may be necessary. For example, the braces will need to be customized to ensure that they fit securely onto your teeth as well as the crowned teeth. 

You may require special adhesives or a type of bracket that can bond to the surface of the crown. Also, the pressure exerted by the braces may need to be adjusted more regularly. For example, if you have undergone root canal treatment, your teeth may be more fragile and require lighter forces to prevent complications or damage. 

Regular monitoring is crucial to ensure that the process is progressing smoothly. For this, your orthodontist will work closely with your general dentist to ensure that the treatment progresses safely while achieving optimal results. 

Risks of Braces with Crowns

Although orthodontic treatment can be carried out successfully with a crown, there are also potential risks to consider. First, there is a risk of damage to the crown itself. Sometimes the pressure from the braces can cause cracks or damage to the crown itself, especially if it is old or of low quality. This is why the orthodontist will assess the health of the crown before proceeding with the treatment and it will need to be replaced beforehand. However, in all cases, a gradual approach with gentle force will be used to minimize potential damage.

The movement of the crown may cause certain complications. For example, changes in tooth positioning can affect how the crown fits within your bite, leading to discomfort or alterations in bite alignment. 

The bond between the braces and the crown can also pose challenges. For example, porcelain surfaces may not bond as securely as natural enamel, increasing the likelihood of bracket detachment. This is why you may need specialized bonding adhesives; your orthodontist will determine which one is most suitable for you.

Braces can affect your dental hygiene routine. Cleaning your teeth with braces can be more challenging. This means that food and bacteria can become trapped and accumulate on the surface of your teeth, increasing the risk of developing plaque and tartar, which can lead to cavities and decay. 

It is essential that you have an excellent dental hygiene routine in place and that you also visit your dentist or hygienist for regular professional cleanings while undergoing orthodontic treatment to prevent this. 

Talk to your dentist

Orthodontic treatment can be carried out with a crown without complications in most cases. Firstly you have to consider the purpose of the crown itself. Crowns for root canal treatments can be moved like natural teeth, whereas crowns for dental implants cannot be moved as they are fixed in place.

If you are considering braces with a crown, then you will need to have a comprehensive consultation with your orthodontist. They will assess your dental health as well as the type and quality of your crown. This will help determine the treatment plan. It will determine the type of brackets you need and whether you require specialized adhesive to ensure the brackets stay in place. It will also determine the amount of force that can be applied to your teeth and whether or not this could cause any complications.

By considering these factors, your orthodontist can help you achieve a straighter and healthier smile. It is essential to have close monitoring throughout the process to ensure that there are no underlying complications and that your teeth remain clean and healthy during the procedure, as well as to prevent damage to the crown itself.

Speak to your orthodontist today and find out more about teeth straightening with a crown and the benefits it can have on your dental health and well-being.