Do I Need Braces Before I Do My Dental Crowns?
I have two dental crowns that are way old and need to be replaced. They look awful. The dentist who did the crowns retired and now I have to go to the person who bought the practice from him. He said before he can replace my crowns, I need full orthodontics. I don’t know if that is true or if it is because he just added an orthodontist to his practice. Either way, I feel I am too old for braces. I will be honest and say that I have teeth that aren’t perfect, they could probably stand to be straightened a little, However, I am not sure why it is necessary when my first dentist was able to put the crowns on just fine. Also, can you even get braces if you have dental crowns?
Nathan
Dear Nathan,
I’ll start with your last question. Can you get braces if you have dental crowns? Yes, that is definitely possible. Do you need them in order to get your crowns replaced? I doubt it. Like you, I am wondering how it was possible for your last dentist to provide you with the crowns without braces, but this dentist insists they are necessary. If I were in your place, I would get a second opinion.
Invisible Braces for Adults
If it turns out you do need braces for some strange reason, or you just decide you want to straighten your teeth regardless of the crowns, you do not have to get those traditional wire and metal braces from years gone by. I have a feeling that is what you meant when you said that you were too old for braces.
These days, you can get your teeth straightened using clear aligners. This will be more efficient for you plus, nothing has to be cemented onto your teeth, which is a big plus when you have dental work, such as dental crowns in your mouth.
Most people have heard of Invisalign, which many dentists offer. Some orthodontists, like Dr. Tostado, offer them as well. He also offers another type, Spark Aligners. These are only offered through orthodontists and have some benefits over Invisalign.
I hope this helps.
This blog is brought to you by Bee Cave Orthodontist Dr. Alberto Tostado.