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Today, many aspire to have an ideal smile. This often comes through dental correction and treatment which may be very evident on our teeth for months. People today avoid traditional braces for the same reason. However, there are new and more undetected ways of achieving the perfect smile like lingual braces. Read to find out more about what are lingual braces.
What are Lingual Braces?
Fixed lingual retainers are a type of braces that consist of the same parts as traditional braces: wires, brackets and all. However, these incognito braces are attached to the lingual, or the teeth's inner side, which makes them nearly unseen by the naked eye.
Are you a candidate for Lingual Braces?
Fixed lingual braces are known to be almost as effective as traditional braces and can fix most major misalignments. However, you simply cannot figure out if you are the right candidate without your orthodontist. Only they can decide if the lingual orthodontics route is right for you. This is because people with deep bites face difficulty with lingual braces. The brackets and wires are more likely to snap in lingual braces for deep bites, hence it is imperative to take an orthodontist appointment to understand whether fixed lingual retainers are for you.
Types of lingual braces
There are a few different types of lingual or inside braces. They are:
Customised lingual braces
Customised to fit each tooth, these braces behind teeth are flat, precise and provide comfort. They are custom-fit to maximise efficiency and correct your teeth in a smooth manner.
Short-term lingual braces
A short-term bonded lingual retainer focuses on the aesthetics of your smile and is fixed to the first 6-8 teeth. They are very similar to other lingual braces types however they only require a short time to enhance your smile.
Self-ligating lingual braces
This type of hidden braces are self-ligating, which means that the wires naturally adjust to the teeth movement, which reduces dental clinic visits for tightening every few weeks.
Lingual braces vs Traditional Braces
Still confused about lingual braces and how they are different from traditional braces? Here are some basic differences between the two:
Lingual braces
Almost invisible
Consists of wires and brackets attached to the back of the teeth (near the tongue)
Can correct most dental issues except for extremely deep bites
More expensive
Can cause a lisp
Require more care and maintenance
Traditional metal braces
Very visible
Consists of wires and brackets attached to the front of the teeth
Can correct even the most extreme deep bites and other dental issues
May be less expensive
May cause minor speech issues
Require lesser care and maintenance
Cost of lingual braces in India
Traditional braces are known to be cheaper than lingual braces as traditional braces require a relatively lower effort of the orthodontist. The lingual braces cost in India can be anywhere between Rs.50,000 to 4 Lakh rupees. The final lingual braces cost in India will depend on the clinic you visit and the type of dental correction required.
How to take care of lingual braces?
Most braces require extra effort while brushing and flossing. Many also come with food and drink restrictions to be efficient and hygienic. Lingual braces require a tad bit more effort to be maintained.
You must use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums with lingual braces.
You will need a different type of floss that can easily go between the teeth and on the lower backside of the teeth too. This will effectively remove food debris and plaque.
Lastly, use a fluoride rinse as your orthodontist recommends.
Additionally, sticky and chewy foods must be avoided as they can stick to the lingual braces. Even hard foods can break the wires!
And you must make sure to go for professional dental cleanings regularly to avoid the chance of cavities and other dental problems due to these braces inside the teeth.
It’s safe to say that while lingual braces are an invisible braces option for correcting your smile, they are not the most convenient hidden braces options. Invisible aligners or clear aligners are another undetected forms of smile correction with simpler maintenance and lower effort. Want to know more? Check out makeO toothsi’s teeth aligners which are clear plastic trays made out of the 3D scans of your teeth. These high-quality trays fit like a glove and apply gentle pressure to push your smile towards perfection. The best part? They’re completely removable too!
FAQs
What is the purpose of lingual braces?
Lingual braces are an alternative for traditional braces. These can straighten your teeth without the metal brackets being noticeable as they are fixed on the inside of the mouth.
Do lingual braces take longer?
Lingual braces take the same time as traditional braces however they are generally slower than clear aligners.
Are lingual braces better?
Lingual braces are a great option if you require a traditional braces treatment but want it to be invisible too. As these are just as effective as traditional braces, they can straighten your teeth while being almost entirely unseen from the front.
What are the disadvantages of lingual braces?
Lingual braces are more expensive since they are fitted on the lingual side of the teeth. This can also cause discomfort, a lisp, and even cuts or a sore tongue.