Can Aligners Be Used If I Have Crowns or Bridges?
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Can You Use Clear Aligners If You Have Crowns or Bridges?
If you’ve had previous dental work—such as crowns or bridges—you may be wondering whether clear aligners are still a viable option for straightening your teeth. The good news is: Yes, aligners can be used even if you have crowns or bridges. However, successful treatment requires careful planning and some important considerations, especially regarding how these restorations interact with tooth movement.
How Aligners Work with Crowns
Dental crowns cover the visible part of a tooth and are often used to restore function and appearance after decay or damage. Because crowns are bonded to natural teeth, they can move during orthodontic treatment—just like your other teeth.
Key considerations:
Crowns may move predictably with aligners, but your dentist will monitor their stability.
If a crown was placed to correct a previous alignment issue, it may need to be adjusted or replaced after your aligners complete the new positioning.
Attachments (small “handles” used for specific tooth movements) may not adhere as well to porcelain or ceramic crowns. Your provider may use special bonding techniques or alternative strategies.
Despite these challenges, aligners remain a highly effective option for patients with one or more crowns.
How Aligners Work with Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth between two crowns. Because bridges span across multiple teeth and are permanently fixed, they do not move with orthodontic force.
This means:
Your aligner treatment will need to work around the bridge, moving the surrounding natural teeth only.
If movement is needed on teeth within or adjacent to the bridge, your dentist may recommend replacing the bridge after orthodontic treatment.
In some cases, leaving the bridge in place is possible if alignment goals are limited to other areas of the mouth.
Clear communication between your general dentist and orthodontist is essential for planning the best approach.
When Is the Best Time to Address Crowns or Bridges?
If you already have crowns or bridges:
Your provider will evaluate whether aligners can be used without compromising your restorations.
In some cases, a temporary crown or bridge may be placed during treatment to maintain space and esthetics.
If you plan to get crowns or bridges in the future:
Orthodontic treatment can be done first, aligning your teeth and creating the ideal conditions for long-lasting restorations.
Aligning teeth before placing permanent dental work is often the most predictable and cost-effective approach.
Dr. Bak’s Integrated Treatment Planning
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Bak Nguyen carefully evaluates all dental restorations before beginning clear aligner treatment. He collaborates with your general or restorative dentist when needed to ensure that orthodontic movement supports the health and longevity of your crowns and bridges.
Book a free virtual consultation to learn more about your case, its treatment time and cost with Dr Bak Nguyen (the real one).
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