If you have crowns or have undergone root canal therapy, you may wonder if orthodontic treatment is still an option for you. The good news is that having dental restorations or prior endodontic work does not disqualify you from achieving a straighter smile. In fact, orthodontics can be highly effective for patients with these dental conditions. Here is everything you need to know about how crowns and root canals interact with orthodontic treatment.
Understanding Crowns and Root Canals
Before diving into orthodontics, it helps to understand the purpose of crowns and root canals:
- Crowns: Dental crowns are caps placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and function. They are often used after large fillings or damage to a tooth to provide strength and protection.
- Root Canals: A root canal is a procedure to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. Afterward, the tooth is sealed and often covered with a crown for protection.
Both treatments aim to preserve your natural teeth, ensuring they remain functional and durable.
Can You Get Orthodontics with Crowns or Root Canals?
The short answer is yes! Orthodontic treatment is often possible for patients with crowns or root canals. However, it may require some additional considerations and specialized care.
1. Crowns and Braces
Traditional braces can be applied to teeth with crowns. The brackets are typically attached to the crowns using a special adhesive designed for ceramic or porcelain surfaces. While the bonding process may differ slightly from natural enamel, the results are just as effective.
2. Crowns and Clear Aligners
If you are considering clear aligners like Invisalign® therapy, these can also be used on teeth with crowns. Aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, including any crowns. Since they do not rely on adhesive brackets, they are a particularly gentle option for patients with restorations.
3. Root Canal-Treated Teeth
Teeth that have undergone root canals are often more brittle than untreated teeth. However, they can still be moved through orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontists will carefully evaluate the health of these teeth and ensure they can withstand the forces applied during treatment. In some cases, adjustments to the treatment plan may be made to protect these teeth.
Special Considerations During Treatment
Orthodontic treatment for patients with crowns or root canals may involve:
- Close Monitoring: Our orthodontists will monitor your progress to ensure your teeth and restorations remain stable and healthy throughout the treatment.
- Customized Forces: Root canal-treated teeth may require lighter forces to move them safely. Our orthodontists will adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
- Collaboration with Your Dentist: In some cases, our orthodontists may work closely with your general dentist or endodontist to ensure your dental restorations are protected during treatment.
Benefits of Orthodontics for Patients with Crowns or Root Canals
Straightening your teeth can improve your overall oral health, even if you have crowns or root canals. Some key benefits include:
- Improved Bite Function: Proper alignment can alleviate stress on teeth and restorations, reducing the risk of damage.
- Easier Oral Hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps protect crowns and root canal-treated teeth from decay or gum disease.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Orthodontics can create a more harmonious and confident smile.
Is Orthodontics Right for You?
If you are considering orthodontic treatment and have crowns or root canals, the first step is a consultation with our experienced orthodontists. We will evaluate your oral health, review your dental history and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. With the right care, you can achieve a straighter, healthier smile without compromising your existing dental work.
As you can see, orthodontic treatment is not only possible but often highly beneficial for patients with crowns or root canals. With advances in modern orthodontics and careful planning, you can achieve the smile you have always wanted while maintaining the integrity of your dental restorations.
We Are the Orthodontist Near You
Shirck Orthodontics invites you to schedule your evaluation with one of our dedicated orthodontists, Dr. Jeff, Dr. Soo and Dr. Betina. We have locations in Powell, Newark, Westerville, or New Albany and Pataskala, Ohio. Call today to learn how our orthodontists can help!