My dentist won’t do the crowns unless I do the braces

Hi, I went to dentist today to inquire about replacing the crown on my two front teeth. They were put on about fifteen years ago and are discolored and embarrassing. I was told I need full ortho braces before I can get the crowns replaced. I do not have the money for that and I don’t see why I can’t just get new crowns and do the other stuff later. My front teeth in question are a little crooked and bucked out but not that terrible. What should I do?
– PJ from Wisconsin

Dear PJ,
I don’t like it when dentists put these restrictions on their treatment – they will only do the perfect treatment or nothing. People have budgets and sometimes less than ideal is the only thing within their budget.

You certainly should be able to get these crowns replaced without doing the orthodontic treatment. You could forgo the braces entirely, or you could do it later. The dentist should still be able to do great crowns and get them looking great.

I would find another dentist who is a more sympathetic and understanding type who will work with you and your budget.

And I would be sure to do all-porcelain crowns on your front teeth. Otherwise they will tend to look fake and will end up showing a dark line at the gumline. Make sure your dentist feels comfortable with this type of crown. Don’t press your dentist to do a certain type of crown – but ask what type the dentist recommends, all-porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. And if he recommends porcelain fused to metal, you’re in the wrong office. Just quietly exit and find a dentist who loves doing the all-porcelain.
– Dr. Hall