What Are Lingual Braces?

Thanks to recent improvements in orthodontic technology, people no longer have reservations about wearing braces. We now have treatments like hidden lingual braces and clear aligners offering a more aesthetically pleasing method of orthodontic treatment. But, what are lingual braces? Lingual braces are installed inside the teeth, facing the tongue rather than the front of your teeth.

These braces have a similar working mechanism to their traditional counterparts: they exert steady pressure that slowly straightens your teeth to address similar dental issues like fixing gaps and overcrowded teeth. Additionally, they are practically invisible, considering they are positioned behind your teeth. 

If you’re interested in lingual braces, these gadgets are custom-made to complement your teeth. Your orthodontist will first take a digital scan of your teeth, then use that information to establish customized brackets to fit within your teeth line.

Read on for more information about lingual braces…

What is the Purpose of Lingual Braces?

The goal of lingual braces is to give you a perfect and healthy smile. Lingual braces can be used to fix overcrowded teeth, jaw issues, crooked teeth, and more.

Are Lingual Braces Better than Traditional Braces?

As mentioned earlier, lingual braces work similar to standard braces but have the benefit of being less visible. This, therefore, begs the question, are they better than their traditional counterparts?

Here are more reasons that accurately testify to their effectiveness:

Lingual braces are less visible.

Privacy is arguably the primary selling point of these types of braces over standard options. They are installed inside the teeth line, which gives you the flexibility to smile and interact with friends without feeling shy.

Easy maintenance

Lingual braces are often easier to maintain and clean when compared to traditional braces. However, you will still want to avoid eating hard foods like apples and candy to prevent any unnecessary trips to the orthodontist.

More flexible

Another aspect of this treatment method is that it’s more flexible than traditional braces. This means they don’t need to be attached to all your teeth. 

Disadvantages of Lingual Braces

Despite the merits mentioned above, this teeth alignment method comes with some setbacks, which you must consider before treatment. Firstly, the upfront cost of hidden braces is relatively expensive compared to traditional braces.

Secondly, like traditional braces, you will want to adjust your foods, meaning you should avoid sticky and hard foods at all costs. Failure to do so may result in the prolonging of your treatment plan.

The other noticeable drawback is you might feel uncomfortable once the braces are mounted. Fortunately, this discomfort tends to subside within a few days of getting use to wearing your braces.

Do Lingual Braces Take Longer Than Traditional Braces?

The time frame for these two orthodontic treatments differs from patient to patient. But considering that lingual braces are typically tailor-made, treatment can be expedited. 

The length of appointments is typically the same as standard braces. How long does this treatment method take? Usually treatment can take 12 to 18 months but it’s always best to check with your orthodontist for your particular case.

How Can I Shorten My Treatment?

Although your treatment time is up to the severity of your case, there are a few things you can keep in mind to stay on track.

Keep your braces clean

Improved dental hygiene enables your teeth to align to the right line quicker, reducing the treatment plan for your braces.

Cutting solid food

Another catalyst that can trigger the process is cutting your hard foods into bite-sized chunks to minimize pressure on your braces while eating.

Avoid chewing unwanted materials.

Regularly chewing unwanted materials such as plastics can damage the braces, meaning your orthodontist may add more time to make up for the damage.

Can Lingual Braces Affect My Speech?

After installing your braces for the first time, you will likely encounter a bit of a harder time with your speech. Most people will easily adjust after the braces are put in place.

Conclusion

Lingual braces can help to fix several dental issues while still providing secrecy. They are a go-to option for people looking for a perfect smile.