Got a crown and thinking about braces? You’re not alone and yes, it’s doable. Braces can still work their magic even if you’ve had some dental work done. 

You just need to know what to expect. 

This guide walks you through how braces and crowns can work together, what to watch for, and how to keep everything in top shape while straightening your smile.

Can you get braces with a crown?

Yes, you can get braces with a crown! Your orthodontist will adjust the treatment plan to ensure the braces fit around the crown without damaging it, but it’s important to discuss this before starting.

Key Takeaways

• It is possible to get braces with a crown, but there are some considerations, especially with regard to the health and integrity of the crown.
• The type of crown and its location in your mouth can impact how braces are applied.
• Regular visits to your orthodontist and dentist are necessary to ensure your treatment is successful and your crown remains intact.

What Is a Crown and Why Would You Need One?

A crown is a dental restoration used to cover or encase a damaged or weakened tooth. 

Crowns are typically used for teeth that have large fillings, are cracked, or have undergone root canal treatment. The crown helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Crowns can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Each material offers its benefits in terms of durability and appearance. 

However, when you are considering orthodontic treatment, the type of crown and its placement can influence the way braces are applied.

How Do Braces Work with a Crown?

Braces work by applying gradual pressure to your teeth to move them into better alignment. 

When you have a crown, it can affect how braces interact with the tooth, but it doesn't mean you can't get braces. 

In fact, orthodontists are experienced in working with teeth that have crowns. 

The main concern is making sure the crown stays intact and that the braces are applied properly to achieve the best results.

Crown Placement and Type

If the crown is on a front tooth, it may require extra care during treatment. 

Porcelain crowns are more prone to cracking under pressure, especially if they are on a tooth that is being moved by braces. 

Your orthodontist may choose to work around the crown to avoid damaging it, or they may recommend replacing the crown with one that is more durable, especially if the crown is old or showing signs of wear.

For back teeth with crowns, the process may be simpler since these teeth are less likely to move as drastically as the front teeth. 

However, your orthodontist will still take extra care to ensure that the brackets and wires don’t interfere with the crown.

Bracket Placement

When you have a crown, your orthodontist will carefully place the brackets around the crown to ensure they don’t damage the restoration. 

The brackets may not adhere as well to a crown as they do to natural teeth because the crown’s surface may not be as porous. 

In some cases, a special adhesive may be used, or the bracket placement may be adjusted slightly.

Considerations for Braces with Crowns

While getting braces with a crown is certainly possible, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Potential Damage to the Crown

The most common concern when getting braces with a crown is the possibility of the crown becoming damaged during treatment. 

Braces apply a lot of pressure on teeth, and if the crown is not secure, it could loosen or break.

To prevent this, it’s important to ensure that your crown is in good condition before starting treatment. 

Your dentist and orthodontist will likely examine your crown closely to ensure it’s firmly in place and can handle the forces applied by the braces.

Possible Need for Replacement Crowns

In some cases, you may need to replace your crown before getting braces. 

If your crown is old, cracked, or made from a material that is likely to break under the pressure of braces, your orthodontist may recommend getting a new, more durable crown before starting treatment. 

This is particularly true if the crown is on a tooth that will undergo significant movement during treatment.

Increased Treatment Time

Having a crown may also slightly increase your treatment time, as your orthodontist will need to monitor the progress of your teeth carefully to make sure that the crown remains intact and that the tooth is properly aligned. 

If your crown becomes damaged during treatment, it could cause delays as it would need to be replaced or repaired.

How to Maintain Your Crown During Braces Treatment

Taking care of your crown during orthodontic treatment is important to ensure that it remains intact and that your braces work effectively. 

Here are some tips to help maintain your crown while wearing braces:

Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is even more crucial when you have a crown and braces. 

Food particles can get trapped between the brackets and the crown, which can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean around the crown, brackets, and wires. 

Consider using a water flosser or floss threaders to reach difficult areas around the braces.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Just as you would with natural teeth, it’s important to avoid hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage your crown. 

Hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candies could cause your crown to crack, while sticky foods like caramel, chewing gum, or taffy could dislodge the crown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I wear braces with a crown on my tooth?

Yes, you can wear braces with a crown. However, your orthodontist may need to take extra care to ensure the crown remains intact and that the brackets adhere properly.

2. Will my crown be damaged during orthodontic treatment?

While there is a risk of damage, your orthodontist will assess the condition of your crown before starting treatment. If the crown is in good condition, it should hold up during treatment.

3. Do I need to replace my crown before getting braces?

It may be necessary to replace a damaged or old crown before getting braces. Your dentist and orthodontist will determine if this is required based on the condition of the crown.

Conclusion

It’s entirely possible to get braces with a crown, and in many cases, it’s no problem at all. However, it’s important to ensure that your crown is in good condition before starting treatment. 

Talk to your dentist and orthodontist about your options, and be sure to maintain proper oral hygiene and attend regular check-ups throughout your treatment. 

With the right care, your braces and crowns can work together to give you the straight, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.

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