If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment and have found yourself wondering what lingual braces are, now is the perfect time to take action! At Orbach Orthodontics, we offer various options tailored to your needs. From traditional metal braces to Invisalign or other clear aligner brands, we have the solutions you’ve been looking for. But one option stands out for its effectiveness, discretion, and innovation: lingual braces. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about lingual braces and how they can transform your smile.
What Are Lingual Braces?Â
Lingual braces work like traditional braces, applying continuous pressure to move your teeth into straighter positions. However, what sets lingual braces apart is their hidden placement and being custom-made for your teeth and your teeth only. While traditional braces have brackets affixed to the front surface of the teeth, lingual braces feature brackets on the backside facing the tongue. This placement makes them virtually invisible, appealing to our image-conscious patients who desire a discreet treatment option.
The Treatment Process & How Lingual Braces Work
The first step in your orthodontic journey is a consultation with Dr. Orbach. During this visit, he’ll examine your teeth and bite, identifying any existing issues and assessing their severity. Dr. Orbach will listen to your concerns and work with you to establish smile goals that align with your aspirations. Based on this evaluation, he’ll recommend the treatment options that suit your unique smile.
If lingual braces are deemed suitable for you, and you choose to proceed, we can begin the process during the same appointment. We’ll use a state-of-the-art 3D scanner to create a digital replica of your teeth and bite. This technology enables Dr. Orbach to create a customized treatment plan for your smile.
Tailored brackets will be placed on the back of each tooth, securely connected by a personalized wire. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor your progress, but thanks to the smartwire’s ability to move according to your treatment plan, you’ll have fewer adjustments than traditional braces.
Precision & Perfect Fit
Achieving an optimal fit right from the beginning is crucial for lingual braces. Since the brackets and wires are more challenging to position, we employ a customized tray to precisely glue all the brackets onto your teeth simultaneously, ensuring they are in the right place.
Once your lingual braces are in place, they’ll work like traditional braces to shift your teeth for a beautifully aligned smile.
Pros & Cons of Lingual Braces
Lingual braces offer many benefits, making them an excellent choice for those seeking discreet treatment. Firstly, their hidden placement makes them virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing unwanted attention. This treatment is particularly advantageous for teenagers and adults who feel self-conscious about wearing braces, especially in social or professional settings.
Additionally, any discoloration from wearing braces will be on the inside of your teeth rather than the visible outer surfaces. This hidden discoloration gives you an added boost of confidence in your smile. They also provide a custom fit, enhancing your comfort throughout treatment.
What to Consider When Choosing Lingual Braces
While lingual braces offer many benefits, they may not suit every patient. Due to their complexity, Dr. Orbach may not recommend them for more complex cases. For example, patients with extreme or deep overbites may experience excessive pressure on the brackets due to their bite, causing them to detach too easily. During your consultation with Dr. Orbach, he will assess your suitability for this orthodontic treatment and discuss alternative options if necessary.
It’s essential to be aware that wearing braces on the back of your teeth will require some adjustment. Initially, you may experience minor difficulties with speech, such as a slight lisp, as your tongue interacts with the back of your teeth. Rest assured, this temporary side effect will usually resolve quickly. You may also experience temporary soreness and discomfort, primarily felt on the tongue, particularly while eating or speaking. However, this discomfort will gradually subside over time.
Your Journey to a Confident Smile Starts at Orbach Orthodontics
If you’re looking for a discreet way to get a straighter smile, lingual braces are an excellent alternative to traditional braces and clear aligners. At Orbach Orthodontics, we’ll help you get your best smile with our comprehensive orthodontic solutions. To learn more about this treatment and explore how it can transform your smile, contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Orbach. Your journey to a confident smile begins now!