What are the effects of putting dental braces on crowns and temporary crowns?
Putting dental braces on crowns and temporary crowns can have several effects:
Crowns:
1. Altered Fit: Braces can change the fit of a crown by applying pressure to the surrounding teeth. This can lead to gaps or spaces between the crown and the adjacent teeth, compromising the crown's stability.
2. Increased Stress: Braces exert constant force on the teeth to move them into alignment. When braces are placed on a tooth with a crown, this force can be transferred to the crown, potentially causing it to loosen, crack, or even dislodge.
3. Damage to Porcelain or Ceramic: Some crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, which can be fragile. The application and adjustment of braces can put pressure on these materials, leading to chips or fractures in the crown.
Temporary Crowns:
1. Bonding Issues: Temporary crowns are typically bonded in place, which means an adhesive is used to hold them in position until the permanent crown can be fabricated. The placement of braces may interfere with the bonding process or even dislodge the temporary crown.
2. Early Failure: Temporary crowns are designed to be a short-term solution while waiting for the fabrication of a permanent restoration. Putting braces on temporary crowns may reduce their lifespan by causing them to loosen, fall out, or become damaged more easily.
3. Treatment Duration: Because temporary crowns are not designed to withstand the forces exerted by braces, they may need to be replaced more frequently during orthodontic treatment. This can prolong the overall treatment duration and potentially increase costs.
4. Comfort Issues: Temporary crowns may be more susceptible to movement or displacement when braces are applied, leading to discomfort for the patient.
5. Aesthetics: Temporary crowns are generally not as aesthetically pleasing as permanent crowns. Placing braces on them may further detract from their appearance and cause self-consciousness.
Overall, while it's possible to put braces on crowns and temporary crowns, there are potential risks and limitations associated with doing so. It's essential for orthodontists and dentists to carefully evaluate the specific case and weigh the pros and cons before making treatment decisions. In many cases, it may be preferable to complete orthodontic treatment before placing crowns or opt for different restorative options that are better suited for orthodontic treatment.