Have you ever wondered if, beyond traditional braces, there’s a solution for straightening teeth? You’re not alone. Braces technology has come a long way, and there are now many types you can choose. Lingual braces, one of the more recent forms of orthodontic work, is proving popular for people conscious about the look of braces.
So what are lingual braces used for? The advantage is aesthetic! Suppose you’re a teen or adult with teeth that need minimal straightening, and you’re reluctant to wear the traditional braces because of how they look. In that case, lingual braces might be the ideal option for you. You’ll have a gorgeous, straight smile and can go about your day without anyone noticing that you’ve got braces!
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What Are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces serve the same purpose of traditional braces but are placed behind the teeth (on the inner surface of the teeth) rather than in front. So, they offer a great cosmetic alternative for those who want their teeth straightened without the braces showing.
Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces in that brackets and wires are installed in the mouth and on the teeth to fix misalignments. However, lingual braces differ because they are almost entirely invisible. They are placed on the back of the teeth facing the tongue, rather than the front of the teeth. Because of this, lingual braces allow for a more discreet option for orthodontic patients not willing to wear traditional braces for a lengthy amount of time. They are gaining popularity for this reason, for both children and adults.
Benefits of Lingual Braces
- The most significant advantage many patients find with lingual braces is the ability to be more discreet when correcting their teeth.
- Efficient at correcting complex teeth alignment problems
- Ideal Option for adults considering their social and professional requirements , since they are completely discreet
- Lingual braces are also custom fit for every patient, which can give a higher level of comfort and precision
Disadvantages to Lingual Braces?
- Lingual braces may create some issues for patients with an extreme or deep overbite. This is because the overbite may exert too much pressure on the brackets on the back of the teeth and cause them to detach too easily. Your orthodontist can tell you if this will be a problem in your case.
- Lingual braces can also cause some difficulties with speech, especially while patients are still adjusting after the brackets are placed. Since the braces are on the backside of your teeth, it may feel a little unusual at first. This effect will usually go away with time, though.
- As with most braces, some discomfort or sores may develop. In the case of lingual braces, the soreness is mostly felt on the tongue, particularly while eating or speaking. However, the pain and irritation will decrease the longer you wear the braces.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Lingual Braces?
As with any orthodontic option, patients need to consider their own personal preferences and what will work best for their lifestyle. As with metal braces, there are particular things that you should avoid eating with lingual braces, including foods that are hard, crunchy or very sticky. Food that gets stuck behind your teeth can take some extra effort to clean and rinse away. If this could be problematic for you, it may be best to consider another option, such as Invisalign.
Another factor to consider is the fact that lingual braces are usually charged more than traditional braces. This is a reflection of the customization required with lingual braces and having to fit each bracket perfectly to each tooth. The Cost ranges from 1,25,000/- onwards. The No Cost EMI options are also available for a 12 month period.
The length of time that lingual braces need to be worn varies among patients. Most people will wear them between one and two years before they get the desired results. Extreme cases may take longer. During the time you wear them, regular visits will be necessary every month for adjustments. The time that needed to wear lingual braces is generally right on par with traditional braces.
Frequently asked questions
The process for lingual braces is simple. A dental professional will take an impression of the teeth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory and used to create customized brackets. This process takes about six weeks. Once complete, your orthodontist will use a specific method to stick the braces onto the back of your teeth. Lingual braces work the same way traditional braces do. They apply gentle yet continuous pressure on the teeth to help them shift into the proper position. The treatment can take 18-36 months, depending on the severity of a patient’s overcrowding of teeth or bite.
Some common reasons for choosing lingual braces include:
- You want to straighten their teeth while maintaining a professional look.
- You are generally concerned about the appearance of braces.
- You play a wind instrument that traditional braces would interfere with.
- You engage in contact sports, and it’s safer to have lingual braces.
As with any other form of orthodontic treatment, lingual braces aren’t suitable for everyone. Teens and adults with normal-sized teeth are the best candidates. Children aren’t usually candidates because smaller primary teeth don’t accommodate the braces. People with an excessive bite problem are also not candidates for lingual braces.
Keeping your teeth clean is essential, no matter what type of braces you choose. Food gets stuck in the brackets and wires and can cause plaque to form, which leads to tooth decay. It is best to brush your teeth after every meal. Ensure that you brush each tooth at the gum line and above and below the brackets of your braces. Because lingual braces are on the back of your teeth, you should pay special attention to that area of your mouth. You may find that a toothbrush with a narrow tip makes it easier to access the back of your teeth. Also a water flosser comes in handy.
With more patients asking about lingual braces, orthodontists and dental professionals are looking into this option as an effective alternative to traditional or ceramic braces. However, not every orthodontist has experience installing and treating misalignments with lingual braces. Be sure to ask your dentist about lingual braces and whether or not it is a good option for you.
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