If you’re wondering whether dental braces are compatible with certain medical conditions, this blog is for you! We explore how orthodontic treatments can coexist with dental implants, crowns, pregnancy, and more. Discover everything in “Dental Braces and Medical Conditions: Are They Compatible?”
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Can You Wear Dental Braces with Dental Crowns?
Yes, absolutely! If you have dental crowns and are considering orthodontic treatment, it is entirely possible to proceed. Many people are concerned about the compatibility of crowns with braces, but with proper care, you shouldn’t have any issues.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work with Crowns?
Dental crowns are made of materials like porcelain, ceramic, or even metal. While these materials don’t behave exactly like natural tooth enamel, they can still be adapted to orthodontic treatment. When a patient with crowns gets braces, the orthodontist uses a special adhesive to ensure that the braces attach securely without damaging the crowns.
What If the Crown Isn’t Well-Made?
If your crown is well-made, you shouldn’t experience problems with the braces. If the crown has structural weaknesses or wasn’t properly placed, it may come loose, with or without braces. In these cases, it’s best to have your dentist check the quality of the crown before starting orthodontic treatment.
Is Invisalign a Better Option?
For some patients, especially those with multiple crowns or concerns about traditional braces, Invisalign can be an excellent alternative. Invisalign doesn’t require brackets to be attached to crowns, reducing the risk of damage to both the aligners and the crowns. Invisalign is also more discreet and comfortable.
Dental Braces and Jaw Alignment Issues: Are They Safe?
Yes, braces are safe and effective for correcting jaw alignment issues, such as overbite or crossbite. They apply consistent pressure to move teeth and the jaw into their correct positions, improving both function and appearance.
The most common bite issues corrected with braces include:
- Overbite: The upper teeth are too far forward.
- Underbite: The lower teeth are positioned further forward.
- Crossbite: The upper and lower teeth don’t align horizontally.
In severe cases, additional devices like palatal expanders or headgear may be required, especially for children. Braces can also positively impact facial symmetry by correcting the bite and ensuring the lips close properly over the teeth.
Can You Get Dental Braces with Dental Implants?
Yes, it’s possible to wear braces even if you have dental implants. However, some key considerations are involved.
Braces After Dental Implants:
Implants are fixed to the jawbone and cannot move during orthodontic treatment. However, the natural teeth around the implant can still shift, allowing for the rest of the teeth to be aligned.
Both traditional braces and clear aligners like Invisalign can be used to correct the position of teeth around the implant.
Braces Before Dental Implants:
Whenever possible, it’s recommended to complete orthodontic treatment before getting an implant. This allows the orthodontist to move all the teeth into their proper positions without the limitations of a fixed implant.
Is It Safe to Wear Dental Braces During Pregnancy?
Yes, it’s safe to continue orthodontic treatment during pregnancy if you’ve already started. Here are a few important points to consider:
- Starting Orthodontics: It’s not recommended to begin treatment during pregnancy due to the need for X-rays.
- Ongoing Treatment: If you already have braces, you can continue treatment without risk to the baby. No harmful products or anesthesia are used.
- Oral Care: Hormonal changes can cause gum inflammation, so maintaining good hygiene and getting regular cleanings is essential.
Can You Have an MRI with Dental Braces?
Yes, you can have an MRI with braces, but it’s important to consider a few factors. Braces, made mostly of metal, can cause small interferences in the images. This doesn’t pose any significant risk but might affect the clarity of images near the mouth. The effects are usually minimal, and braces don’t compromise the safety of the procedure.
Always inform the technician about your braces before the MRI so that necessary precautions can be taken.
Dental Braces and Other Medical Procedures: What to Consider
When undergoing other medical procedures while wearing braces, keep these key factors in mind to ensure your orthodontic treatment doesn’t interfere with your general health or any required procedures:
Dental Cleaning Before Treatment
A professional dental cleaning before getting braces ensures your teeth are in the best condition for the appliances, improving the effectiveness of the treatment and preventing complications.
Orthodontic Wax for Comfort
It’s normal to feel some irritation in the mouth after getting braces. Orthodontic wax is useful for covering brackets and easing discomfort. Always have some on hand to protect your gums and cheeks.
Diet Adjustments
You’ll need to adjust your diet. Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your braces. Opt for soft foods like soups or smoothies, and cut food into small pieces.
Hygiene Challenges
Braces make brushing and flossing more difficult, increasing the risk of cavities. Make sure to follow a strict oral hygiene routine using specialized brushes and mouthwashes.
Frequent Orthodontic Adjustments
Orthodontic treatment requires regular adjustments to ensure teeth move correctly. If you’re undergoing long-term medical treatment, coordinate your medical and orthodontic appointments to avoid conflicts.
Dental Braces for Patients with Pre-Existing Conditions
It’s possible to undergo orthodontic treatment even if you have pre-existing dental conditions like fillings, crowns, or implants. Here’s how these situations are managed:
- Fillings: Fillings generally don’t interfere with braces, though large fillings may require spacers before placing appliances.
- Crowns: Braces can adhere to crowns using a special adhesive, allowing treatment to continue without issues.
- Implants: Dental implants can’t move like natural teeth, but the treatment can be planned accordingly. Implants can sometimes serve as anchors.
Conclusion
If you have dental crowns and are considering orthodontic treatment, it’s entirely possible to move forward. Consult with your orthodontist to determine the best treatment option for your case. A personalized evaluation will help ensure the best results and a safe, effective treatment plan.
FAQ
Can you have an MRI scan if you have dental braces?
Yes, it’s possible to have an MRI with dental braces. While braces can cause small distortions in the images, they don’t pose a significant risk to the patient. Be sure to inform the technician before the procedure so they can take necessary precautions.
Are dental braces safe for jaw alignment problems?
Yes, braces are safe and effective for correcting jaw alignment issues. Depending on the type and severity of the case, orthodontic devices or even orthognathic surgery may be needed in adults. Consult your orthodontist to evaluate the appropriate treatment.
Can you get dental braces with dental implants in place?
Yes, it’s possible to use braces with dental implants. Implants don’t move like natural teeth, but both treatments can be combined to improve alignment and achieve an optimal smile. Talk to your orthodontist to plan the right treatment.
Is it okay to wear dental braces during pregnancy?
Yes, it’s safe to wear braces during pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes, gums may become more inflamed than usual, so maintaining excellent oral hygiene by brushing three times a day and flossing before bed is essential.
Do dental braces interfere with other medical treatments?
In general, braces don’t interfere with other medical treatments. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene since braces can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Also, inform your doctor about any metal or latex allergies before treatment.