Have you ever wondered if there is a solution to straightening teeth beyond traditional braces? Braces technology has come a long way nowadays, and there are now many types to choose from.
What is Lingual (Hidden Braces) Braces?
Lingual brackets serve the same purpose as traditional brackets, but are placed behind the teeth (by the tongue and palate) rather than in front of them. Therefore, it offers a great cosmetic alternative for those who want to straighten their teeth without the braces appearing.
How Does Lingual Braces Work?
Lingual braces work the same as traditional braces. The process for lingual braces is simple. The dentist will take impressions of the teeth, which are then sent to the dental laboratory and used to create customized brackets. This process takes about 6 weeks. Once complete, your orthodontist will use a special method to attach the braces to the back of your teeth. They apply gentle but continuous pressure to the teeth to help them move into the correct position. Treatment may take 18-36 months depending on the degree of clenching or biting of the patient.
What You Need to Know About Lingual (Hidden Braces) Braces
1.Placing
While the material and procedure are the same as conventional braces, this type of braces is placed behind the teeth, offering almost complete invisibility. It’s a great option for people who don’t want to show off that they’re straightening their teeth, or who are discouraged from wearing traditional braces for work.
2.Comparison with other methods
Lingual braces aren’t the only invisible option available. There are other braces such as Invisalign that offer a similar treatment. However, when it comes to braces and Invisalign, you should know that Invisalign offers a tray-shaped straightening method. This means that braces are not permanent, they can be removed, and you have to wear them for a certain amount of time to be effective. Lingual brackets are permanently placed over your teeth so you don’t have to remember to put them on. Invisalign is made of plastic and in some cases cannot solve serious dental problems. Also, while you may need to visit your orthodontist more often for checkups, lingual braces need to be adjusted and tightened every six to eight weeks.
3.Food restrictions
Many people wonder what not to eat with lingual braces. Similar to traditional braces, you will need to avoid hard foods such as corn on the cob or apples as they can break the braces. It is recommended to avoid sticky foods such as caramel or certain types of candy because they stick to the back of the braces and are difficult to brush.
4.Hygiene requirements
Because braces are invisible, brushing your teeth and cleaning all braces can be more difficult. You may need to visit your dentist more often for professional teeth cleaning.
5.Other difficulties
Lingual (hidden) braces can cause some difficulties in speaking until you get used to it. This usually takes a few weeks. It is unusual for the brackets to be placed behind the teeth and can cause tongue irritation. Other oral conditions may be present, but these effects will quickly disappear. The advantage is that only your tongue is in contact with the braces, so there is no irritation to the gums and cheeks.
6.More flexibility
Lingual (hidden) braces are more flexible, meaning they do not need to be worn on all teeth. The treatment plan depends on the dental problems you are facing. Unless you have any underlying medical issues, such as an irregular bite, the orthodontist may only place braces on teeth that need to be fixed. A purely cosmetic treatment is less costly as the braces will only be placed where they are needed.