Braces work by applying gentle pressure to move teeth into their proper alignment over time. However, when a tooth is covered by a crown or involved in a bridge, the situation requires extra care.

Crowns: Since crowns are bonded to individual teeth, braces can usually be applied with minimal issues. Orthodontists may use special techniques to ensure the brackets or aligners don’t damage the crown’s surface.

Bridges: Fixed bridges present a unique challenge because they are anchored to adjacent teeth, limiting their movement. While the teeth in the bridge may remain stationary, surrounding teeth can still be shifted to improve alignment.

The material of your crown or bridge—whether porcelain, metal, or a combination—can influence how orthodontic appliances are attached. At Blue Dental Clinic, Dr. Stephan uses advanced techniques to ensure that braces are safely and effectively integrated with your dental restorations.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Possible With Crowns or Bridges?

Yes, patients with crowns or bridges can still receive orthodontic treatment. However, the approach might vary depending on the type of restoration and its location.

Crowns: Braces are usually compatible with crowns, though care is needed to prevent damage. Orthodontists may use specialized adhesives or alternative attachments to ensure the brackets stay secure.

Bridges: With fixed bridges, movement of the attached teeth may be limited. However, braces or clear aligners can still adjust the surrounding teeth to improve your overall smile.

Our team at Blue Dental Clinic tailors each treatment plan to your unique needs, ensuring your dental restorations are preserved throughout the process.

Types of Crowns and Their Impact on Braces

The type of crown you have can influence how smoothly orthodontic treatment proceeds. Here’s a breakdown:

Porcelain Crowns: Ideal for visible teeth due to their natural appearance. Orthodontists must handle these crowns carefully to avoid chipping the porcelain.

Metal Crowns: Highly durable and suitable for molars, metal crowns can easily withstand the pressure from braces.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, making them versatile for orthodontic treatment.

No matter the type of crown, braces can still be effective with the proper techniques and care.

Orthodontic Options for Patients With Crowns or Bridges

Patients with dental restorations can explore several orthodontic options:

Traditional Metal Braces: These are commonly used with adjustments to accommodate crowns or bridges. Brackets may be placed on natural teeth to avoid damaging restorations.

Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): A gentler alternative, clear aligners can shift teeth without attaching brackets to crowns or bridges.

Lingual Braces: Placed on the back of teeth, these braces are less likely to interfere with visible restorations.

Your orthodontist will evaluate your dental situation and recommend the best treatment option to align your teeth safely and effectively.

Braces With Fixed Bridges: What to Expect

For patients with fixed bridges, orthodontic treatment is possible but requires careful planning. Since bridges are designed to remain stable, the teeth involved may not move as freely as natural teeth. However, surrounding teeth can still be adjusted to enhance your smile.

In some cases, clear aligners may be a better option, as they allow for gentle movement without affecting the bridge. Dr. Stephan will assess your case and recommend the ideal approach for achieving your desired results.

Will Braces Damage Crowns or Bridges?

A common concern is whether braces will damage existing dental restorations. While the risk of significant damage is minimal, orthodontists take precautions to prevent issues such as:

Using specialized adhesives for brackets on crowns.

Ensuring brackets are placed on natural teeth when possible.

Monitoring restorations during treatment for any signs of wear or damage.

If any minor damage occurs, repairs can be easily completed after your orthodontic treatment.

Challenges of Braces With Crowns or Bridges

While braces can work effectively, some challenges may arise:

Limited Movement: Teeth with crowns or bridges may move more slowly than natural teeth, requiring a tailored treatment plan.

Potential Damage: Minor cosmetic issues, such as small chips, can occur but are easily repairable after treatment.

Delays in Cosmetic Procedures: If you plan to replace a crown, it’s best to wait until your orthodontic treatment is complete.

Conclusion: Can You Get Braces With Crowns or Bridges?

Absolutely! With proper planning and the expertise of specialists like Dr. Stephan at Blue Dental Clinic, braces can be successfully applied to patients with crowns or bridges. Your treatment plan will be customized to ensure your restorations remain intact while achieving a beautifully aligned smile.

Whether you opt for traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Book a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!