Front crowns all joined together. Is this normal?

Hello there,Sometimes permanent crowns are splinted to add strength or if there are periodontal (gums and bone) issues. Aside from that, each crown should be separate.  Splinted crowns are much more difficult to keep clean.  I would recommend seeing your dentist regarding this and to address the tightness that you are experiencing.  In the meantime, I would recommend using a floss threader to clean your splinted crowns. It's always important to look at before and after photos when selecting your dentist. They will give you a pretty good indication about what you can expect. Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MO area (O'Fallon, IL)Real Self 100

Typically the reason crowns would be splinted together would
be because of gum disease and the resulting mobility issues. It is more
difficult to clean splinted crowns, I’d suggest using a floss threader. Talk to
your dentist about the tightness and ask why the crowns are splinted.

Thank you for your inquiry. It's difficult to say if the crowns should have been attached or not, as it depends on the circumstances of your teeth prior to this treatment (missing teeth, prior treatment to teeth, anatomy, etc). However, in general front crowns are typically all separate for the most optimal aesthetics as well as for cleaning purposes. It's important you communicate with your treating dentist (if you haven't already) your concerns and hear what he/she says about why they are connected instead of separate. Every case is different but you will likely get clarity based on the explanation your dentist gives. We hope this helps and we wish you all the best!