Can a Patient With Crowns or Bridges Still Get Braces?

An increasing number of adults are getting braces for both cosmetic as well as corrective functional reasons. Because many adults have already had various corrective dental restorations, it is not unusual for orthodontists to treat patients with crowns and bridges.

Your orthodontist may recommend fixed or removable braces to correct the alignment of your teeth. Even if you currently have a crown or bridge, you can enjoy the many benefits of correct teeth alignment and an attractive smile.

Attaching braces to dental restorations is often a little more difficult than placing them on your natural teeth. This is because it is easier to bond the bracket onto your natural tooth than it is to a crown or large filling. Because of the complex nature of this situation, it is advisable to seek out a specialist when considering orthodontic treatment so that all possible issues that may arise can be addressed appropriately.

Possible Complications with Orthodontic Treatment

A few complications that can arise with orthodontic treatment on previously restored teeth are listed below.

• There is a possibility that a crown or bridge may incur damage during orthodontic treatment. Usually this damage is only aesthetic and there is no need to do anything about it unless it occurs on a front tooth. If the damage is on a tooth that is hidden in the back of the mouth then often nothing more is done. If, however, there is damage to a crown or bridge that is on a front tooth, your dentist will be able to fix the crown once your braces are removed and you have finished your orthodontic treatment.
• Tooth movement will be limited when braces are installed over dental implants and bridges. Implants and bridges are not designed to move and could be damaged when forces to shift them into a new position are applied to them. An implant cannot be moved at all because it is fused into the jawbone, unlike natural teeth that actually “sit” inside the bone. So there will be limitations to how much movement you can expect if you have any implants. If you have a bridge, tooth movement can only be minimal as well, to avoid damaging the bridge. In the case of teeth with previous trauma, such as a root canal or crown restoration, the orthodontist will closely monitor these teeth during treatment and may need to move them slower than an undamaged tooth so as to avoid further traumatizing the tooth.
• Any cosmetic dentistry you are considering, generally, should be done after orthodontic treatment. If you want to replace a crown or veneer for cosmetic reasons, it’s best to wait until you have finished with your braces. If you have a crown that is loose, the orthodontist may ask your dentist to make a temporary crown to be used during your orthodontic treatment. The permanent crown can then be placed after your treatment.

Contact Primary Dental for a Consultation at our Wheat Ridge office

Although fitting braces over existing dental restorations can be a little more challenging, an experienced orthodontist will be able to find the best solution for your unique situation. You need not be discouraged from getting that beautiful and functional smile of your dreams because of previous dental work.