What Are Lingual Braces and How Are They Different?
There are now more options than ever for orthodontics treatments. One of the newer orthodontic appliances that has been gaining popularity is lingual braces. These custom-fitted braces are attached to the backs of teeth, making them unseen by others.
What are custom-fitted lingual braces?
Lingual braces are custom-made braces to fit onto the backs of your teeth, hiding them from view. After taking moulds of your teeth, a dental lab creates metal or ceramic brackets and wires specifically contoured to fit your teeth’ lingual (tongue) side. A dentist near me then bonds these brackets and attaches archwires gently to shift your teeth into proper alignment.
Since the brackets and wires are behind your teeth, no metal braces are visible when you smile or speak. This makes lingual braces an “invisible” orthodontic treatment, perfect for those wishing to straighten their smile discreetly.
How are lingual braces different from regular braces?
There are a few key differences between traditional braces and the newer lingual braces:
Location – The most obvious difference is that lingual dental braces are fixed to the back of your teeth rather than the front. This hides them from view.
Customization – Lingual braces require customized brackets and wires to fit your tooth anatomy properly. This involves additional steps like taking teeth impressions.
Comfort – Some people note minor speech impediments and tongue irritation when first getting lingual braces since the mouth must adjust to having hardware behind the teeth. Most adapt within a couple of weeks.
Cost – Owing to the specialized manufacturing involved, the price of lingual braces typically exceeds that of conventional metal braces. However, financing options are available at most dentist offices near me.
Do lingual braces work as effectively as traditional braces?
Yes, when properly fitted by an experienced orthodontist in Waterford, MI, lingual dental braces can shift teeth just as effectively as regular braces on the front surface of teeth. Customization is key, however, as the wires must exert steady ideal pressure on the teeth. Improperly contoured lingual braces may fail to produce the desired results.
It is vital to see an orthodontist familiar with lingual braces rather than a general dentist near 48329. As with other orthodontics, treatment times depend on the complexity of your particular case. On average, the anticipated treatment is 18-36 months.
Is the lingual braces application process more complex?
Getting lingual braces takes a few more steps than traditional metal braces:
Impressions – Highly accurate moulds of your teeth are taken so the brackets can be properly sculpted.
Fitting – The customized brackets, wires, and bands must be tested, fit and fine-tuned in your mouth before being permanently bonded to teeth.
Bonding – The appliances are then securely cemented onto the backs of your teeth.
Although the process takes more time upfront, once in place, you can complete treatment confidently out of sight. As with orthodontics, you must commit to regular progress checkups and adjustments at the dentist’s office during treatment.
How are lingual braces costs and treatment time different?
Cost – Due to the customization involved, lingual braces generally range from $5,000 to $10,000. This is approximately 30% higher than traditional metal braces. However, many orthodontic offices offer flexible monthly payment plans, and insurance may provide partial coverage.
Time – Total treatment time is typically the same as traditional braces, averaging 18 and 36 months, depending on your complexity. However, more adjustment appointments may be necessary when adapting to the back-teeth sensation.
What special oral hygiene do lingual braces require?
Excellent oral hygiene is critical with any braces. Lingual braces present unique challenges, however, in keeping teeth and gums clean:
- Careful flossing is essential to clean the teeth and dislodge food debris. Special threaders make flossing easier.
- Angled toothbrushes must be used to brush plaque from behind the brackets and wires effectively.
- Additional cleaning aids like water flossers help remove particulates from these hard-to-reach areas.
– Emergency dentists near me are also available if you have a painful bracket or irritation that needs prompt attention between regular adjustments. Do not ignore any unusual symptoms.
What issues can arise with speech or tongue irritation from lingual braces?
The first days and weeks of adapting to foreign appliances fixed behind your front teeth can be an adjustment. Many people report:
- Temporary lisp-like speech impediment
- Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
- Tongue or cheek irritation from the brackets and wires
Fortunately, these issues typically resolve within 2-4 weeks as your mouth gets conditioned to the new hardware. Short-term, over-the-counter pain medication can provide relief as needed. Most orthodontists suggest soft foods and oral wax to lessen friction initially. If problems persist beyond a month, consult your treating doctor promptly.
These hidden lingual braces offer a convenient alternative to conventional braces to those seeking discreet realignment. Speak to your local orthodontic provider like The Waterford Dentist to learn if you might benefit from this advancing technology that makes straightening teeth undetectable. They can walk you through the pros, cons, and cost specifics of lingual braces so you can make an informed decision.