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The Secret to Straightening Your Teeth: Discover the Power of Lingual Braces

Are you on the lookout for a discreet way to achieve a straighter smile? If so, then lingual braces might just be the perfect solution for you. In this article, we will delve into the world of lingual braces, exploring what they are, the advantages they offer, the cost involved, and what you can expect during the treatment process.

What Exactly Are Lingual Braces?

Lingual braces are a type of orthodontic device that are specifically designed to be placed on the inside surface of your teeth. This innovative placement makes them virtually invisible, so you can straighten your teeth without anyone even knowing! Unlike traditional braces that are attached to the front of your teeth, lingual braces are custom-made to fit the contours of your teeth on the backside. This discreet positioning makes them the ideal choice for individuals looking to straighten their teeth without affecting their appearance.

The Benefits of Choosing Lingual Braces

Opting for lingual braces brings about a host of advantages:

1. A Discreet Solution

The standout benefit of lingual braces is their near-invisible appearance. Since they are placed behind your teeth, they remain completely hidden from view. This makes them a superb option for individuals who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces.

2. Effective Treatment

Don’t be fooled by their hidden position – lingual braces deliver the same remarkable level of treatment as traditional braces. They are suitable for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, gaps, crossbite, overbite, and underbite. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you achieve the optimal results you desire.

3. Exceptional Comfort

Unlike traditional braces, which can sometimes cause discomfort or irritation due to their placement on the front surface of the teeth, lingual braces are expertly designed to fit snugly on the back. The brackets and wires are custom-made to suit the unique anatomy of your mouth, providing you with maximum comfort throughout your treatment journey.

4. Easy Oral Hygiene

With lingual braces, there’s no need to worry about obstructions or difficulties when it comes to oral hygiene. Since they are placed on the back of your teeth, the front surfaces remain free from brackets or wires. This allows for easy brushing and flossing, ensuring that you can maintain proper oral hygiene without any hassle. By keeping your teeth clean, you can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease during your orthodontic treatment.

Considerations of the Cost

When it comes to the cost of lingual braces, it’s important to note that it can vary depending on several factors. These include the complexity of your orthodontic issues, the duration of treatment, and the specific dental practice you choose. As a general guideline, lingual braces tend to be slightly more expensive compared to traditional braces. However, their custom design and specialized placement deliver an invisible treatment option and enhanced aesthetics, which may outweigh the additional cost for many individuals.

The Treatment Process with Lingual Braces

Embarking on the journey to a straighter smile with lingual braces typically involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will thoroughly evaluate your teeth, discuss your treatment goals with you, and determine whether lingual braces are the best option for you.

2. Customization

If you decide to proceed with lingual braces, various records such as impressions, photographs, and X-rays will be taken to create a personalized treatment plan for you. These records will be used to fabricate specialized brackets and wires that perfectly fit the back surfaces of your teeth.

3. Placement

Once your tailor-made lingual braces are ready, your orthodontist will bond the brackets onto the back of your teeth. The wires will then be connected, gradually guiding your teeth into their correct positions.

4. Periodic Adjustments

Throughout your treatment journey, you will need to visit your orthodontist at regular intervals for adjustments. These appointments are essential to ensure that your treatment progress is on track. During these adjustments, the wires may be tightened or changed to continue applying the necessary pressure to move your teeth effectively.

5. Completion and Retention

After your teeth have been aligned to their desired positions, your orthodontist will remove the lingual braces. To ensure that your new, beautifully straight smile remains intact, you may be provided with a retainer to wear at night or for a specified period.

It’s important to remember that individual treatment plans may vary, depending on your unique circumstances. It’s crucial to follow the instructions given by your orthodontist throughout the process to achieve the best possible results.

Unlock the Potential of Lingual Braces for Your Dream Smile

In conclusion, lingual braces provide an invisible solution that can help you achieve a straighter smile. With their discreet appearance, effective treatment capabilities, comfortable fit, and easy maintenance of oral hygiene, lingual braces are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a practically invisible way to attain a beautiful smile. While they may come with a slightly higher price tag compared to traditional braces, the benefits they offer in terms of aesthetics make them a worthwhile investment. To learn more about lingual braces and determine if they are suitable for you, we invite you to contact Wimpole Street Dental Clinic for a consultation today.

Statistics:

– According to a survey by the British Orthodontic Society, nearly 70% of the UK population would like to straighten their teeth (source: https://www.bos.org.uk/News-and-Events/Press-Releases/Teenagers-not-keen-on-traditional-train-tracks).

– The London Orthodontic Centre reported that lingual braces account for approximately 10% of their orthodontic cases (source: https://www.london-orthodontic-centre.co.uk/lingual-braces/).

ABOUT THIS ARTICLE

Created: 14/8/23

Clinically reviewed by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Written by: Dr Sanjana Sudarshan

About the author:

Sanjana, an accomplished Orthodontist, graduated with Honours from King’s College and excels in providing tailored treatments using diverse techniques. With a broad dental background, she manages complex conditions holistically. A passionate mentor, conference presenter, and charitable ambassador, she continuously supports the dental community.

When did we last update this page?

Our expert team continually update and research the latest news and techniques in dentistry, as such we regularly update our pages and have these clinically reviewed.

Current Version

August 14th 2023

  • Added “when did we last update this page”

Written by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Medically reviewed by: Dr Raul Costa