Lingual braces are one of several ‘invisible’ alternative treatments to traditional braces.
From an aesthetic point of view, lingual braces are a top choice. If you’re self-conscious about undergoing braces treatment, don’t fret, as this type of brace puts this at the forefront of its design. They’re custom made which makes them a safe and effective method of straightening teeth and you don’t have to deal with the hefty metal ware that comes with traditional braces – but the high quality of the treatment remains the same.
Although they look like normal braces, they go relatively unnoticed as they are attached onto the backside of your teeth (the tongue/lingual side). Lingual braces are often named ‘inside’ braces for this reason.
What does the treatment involve?
Advancements in orthodontic treatment means it’s easier than ever for your dentist to fit you with your lingual braces. This simple procedure involves the following steps:
- A consultation to discuss your treatment and to give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
- Using a mould, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth (as in the image above) so that your custom brace can be made by a dental technician – each bracket of your brace is made to be compatible with each individual tooth.
- In order to keep the brackets of your brace in the correct shape, they will be set in wax and held in an applicator – similar to the setting period of an ice-lolly or jelly!
- On your final visit with us, your dentist will place a special type of cement to your back teeth. Once the brackets are firmly held in place by the cement, your plastic applicator is removed and the arch wire can be installed. The arch wire provides the movement and tension that is responsible for moving your teeth into the desired position.
Cleaning your teeth with lingual braces
Your dentist here at Park Lane, we can offer you advice on how to brush your teeth during your treatment period. A small-headed toothbrush is recommended as these make it easier to clean the crevices between your teeth where bacteria and food collects. You can purchase these here.
The kinds of foods that are likely to get stuck in your braces are fibrous and sticky foods as well as vegetables with strands. Try to keep these to a minimum, cut them up into small pieces before consuming them and drink plenty of water after each bite to clean as much as possible out.
Aftercare
We advise regular visits to our hygienist, who can give scale and polish your teeth (remove trapped food and deep clean them) as it is easy for this to occur with lingual braces.
You will be given a retainer which, unlike lingual braces, is a removable appliance. This will help your teeth stay in the desired position and not immediately return to their original position. Your dentist will tell you how long you will need to be wearing it.