What Are Lingual Braces and How Do They Work?

These offer a discreet option for people seeking to align their teeth without noticeable metal braces. Lingual braces are attached to the teeth; unlike traditional braces, teeth’ inner (lingual) surfaces, making them virtually invisible from the outside. Here’s a closer look at lingual braces in Houston, TX, how they work, and what to expect from this unique orthodontic treatment.

What Makes Lingual Braces Different?

Lingual braces are individually crafted to suit the inner surfaces of your teeth. They are hidden on the back of the teeth and provide a virtually invisible way to align the teeth. For people concerned about aesthetics, lingual braces offer an effective solution without the appearance of traditional braces on the front of the teeth.

Getting lingual braces involves creating precise molds of the teeth to design brackets and wires that fit comfortably along the inner surfaces. Since they require a custom fit and specific placement techniques, choosing an experienced orthodontist in 77018 is essential for successful treatment.

Benefits of Lingual Braces

1. Discreet Appearance: Lingual braces are practically invisible, making them a wonderful choice for anyone wanting to straighten their teeth sans the appearance of braces. This discreetness helps patients feel confident in social or professional situations throughout the treatment.
2. Effective for Various Alignment Issues: Lingual braces can address various alignment issues, from minor spacing adjustments to complex bite corrections. They provide equal effectiveness to conventional braces, which can treat both simple and severe orthodontic cases.
3. Customized for Each Patient: Every set of lingual braces is custom-made, ensuring a snug fit that aligns perfectly with the teeth. This customization allows for more precise adjustments and makes lingual braces a comfortable option for long-term wear.

Common Challenges with Lingual Braces

Like any orthodontic treatment, lingual braces come with an adjustment period. Here are some common challenges and ways to manage them:

• Initial Speech Difficulty: Many patients find that lingual braces affect their speech initially. The tongue needs time to adjust to the brackets on the inner surfaces of the teeth, and some may experience a slight lisp for the first few weeks.
• Tongue Soreness: Since lingual braces sit close to the tongue, patients may notice some irritation, especially in the early stages. This soreness generally decreases as the mouth adapts to the braces.
• Complex Fitting Process: Installing and adjusting lingual braces requires more expertise and can be slightly more time-consuming than traditional braces. Seeking an experienced orthodontist near you ensures proper placement and optimal results.

Tips for Adapting to Lingual Braces

1. Practice Speaking Out Loud: Reading aloud or speaking slowly can help the tongue adjust to the new positioning of the braces, making speech more comfortable. Practice can ease initial challenges and help patients feel more confident with their braces.
2. Use Orthodontic Wax for Soreness: Orthodontic wax is effective in reducing irritation caused by the brackets. Patients can prevent further irritation and allow their tongue to heal by applying a small amount of wax to the braces.
3. Stick to Softer Foods Initially: Eating softer foods during the first few days can minimize discomfort and make chewing easier. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could put extra pressure on the braces or cause irritation.
4. Stay Consistent with Oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing are especially important with lingual braces, Food particles can become easily stuck behind the teeth. Invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush and a floss threader as they can help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent plaque buildup around the brackets.

The Treatment Process with Lingual Braces

The journey with lingual braces begins with a consultation, where the orthodontist examines the teeth and discusses treatment goals. Once the plan is set, impressions of the Custom brackets are made using extracted teeth and wires for the braces.

After placement, regular adjustments are needed to move the teeth into their desired positions gradually. Most patients visit their orthodontist every 4-6 weeks for check-ups and adjustments. Since lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth, adjustments require a little more time and expertise than traditional braces.

Choosing Lingual Braces with Greater Houston Dental Arts

For anyone considering lingual braces in Houston, TX, Greater Houston Dental Arts provides experienced orthodontic care tailored to each patient’s needs. Skilled orthodontists guide patients through the treatment process, From the first meeting to the ultimate outcome, ensuring a comfortable and practical experience.

Conclusion

Lingual braces provide a distinct combination of aesthetics and functionality, making them valuable for those who want effective orthodontic treatment without visible braces. Contact a dentist near you to get a proper guidance.