7 Thing You Should Know About Lingual Braces

While lingual braces are nothing new in the world of tooth-aligning orthodontic procedures, there are still a lot of questions people have about this technique. Like all other procedures used to achieve straight teeth, lingual braces have numerous advantages and disadvantages.

If you want to learn more about lingual braces and how they work, continue reading below.

What Are Lingual Braces?

Lingual braces are a type of braces that are placed behind the teeth, facing the tongue and palate, instead of in front of the teeth like traditional ones. This is a great cosmetic alternative for those who want to straighten teeth without the visible metal brackets.

There are numerous benefits of lingual braces. They are less visible since they are placed at the back of the teeth, they allow for easier teeth cleaning, and don't break off as easily as traditional braces.

How Do They Work?

Lingual braces work precisely the same as traditional braces. They are made up of the same material and thus, fix the same dental problems. Every six to eight weeks, your orthodontist will schedule an appointment and adjust them to help your teeth shift into their proper positions.

If you decide to get lingual braces, your orthodontist may take a dental impression or scan your teeth. The brackets are custom made for each patient’s teeth, and you will have to wear them between 18 to 24 months, depending on the severity of your dental problems.

7 Things You Should Know:

1. Placement

While the material and procedure are the same as traditional braces, this type of braces is placed behind the teeth, offering almost full invisibility. It is perfect for people who don’t want to show that they are straightening their teeth or people whose job prevents them from having traditional braces.

2. Comparison To Other Methods

Lingual braces are not the only invisible option available. There are other braces, such as Invisalign, which offer a similar type of treatment. However, when it comes to lingual braces vs. Invisalign, you should know that Invisalign offers a tray-style straightening method. That means the braces are not permanent, are removable, and you have to wear it for a certain period of time in order for it to be effective. Lingual braces are permanently placed on your teeth, so you don’t have to remember to wear them. Invisalign is made of plastic and in some cases cannot fix severe dental issues. Also, you may have to visit your orthodontist more frequently for check ups, while lingual braces require adjustment and tightening every six to eight weeks.

3. Cost

When it comes to the pros and cons of lingual braces, the cost tends to shift to the cons column.  While they are similar to traditional braces, they sometimes require individual customization to fit each tooth perfectly, which can increase their cost.

4. Food Restrictions

Most people wonder what not to eat with lingual braces. Similar to traditional braces, you will have to avoid hard food, such as corn on the cob or apple, as it could break the braces. Avoiding sticky foods such as caramel or certain types of candy is advisable as it will stick behind the braces and will be hard to brush off.

What can you eat with lingual braces? Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt or any milk-based products. Bread, softer fruits, and grains are also allowed, as well as seafood and vegetables. Meat can be a problem, so try cutting it into small pieces whenever possible.

5. Hygiene Requirements

Since lingual braces are invisible, it may be harder to brush your teeth and clean all the brackets. Therefore, buying a dentist’s mirror can be a worthy investment, as it will allow you a better view of what needs to be cleaned.

6. Other Difficulties

Lingual braces may cause some difficulties with speech until you get used to them. This usually lasts a few weeks. It can cause tongue irritation, as it is unusual to have brackets placed in behind teeth and you will rush your tongue to inspect it. Other mouth discomforts may be present, but these effects will go away quickly. The advantage is that only your tongue will be in touch with the braces, so irritation of gums and cheeks is non-existent.

7. More Flexibility

Lingual braces are more flexible, meaning they don’t have to be placed on all teeth. The treatment plan depends on the dental issues you are facing. If you do not have any underlying medical conditions, such as an irregular bite, then an orthodontist can place the braces only on the teeth which need straightening. A purely cosmetic treatment costs less as the braces will be installed only where needed.

Conclusion

Lingual braces are a perfect tool for straightening teeth and dealing with more severe dental problems, while offering discretion at the same time. They are almost completely invisible and an excellent choice for people whose social or professional situation does not allow for traditional braces.

If you think lingual braces are the right choice for you, contact Pure Orthodontics and start your journey to a perfect smile.