subject: Why Lingual Braces Are Worth The Extra Cost [print this page] Traditional braces have been worn for yearsTraditional braces have been worn for years. The treatment is so common that it is almost considered a rite of passage. Not only do people hope for better smiles, but their orthodontists or orthodontics dentist hopes to avoid problems with their teeth, mouths, and jaw in the future. The best alignment for teeth seems to be linked to the overall health of your mouth and your body. Lingual invisible braces are providing a new kind of treatment that may be better for you. Here is why.
These new braces offer a different solution for the process of creating a functional and beautiful set of teeth. This type of braces is attached behind the teeth rather than in front. The braces are hidden from view, are customized for each tooth, and are very comfortable because they are designed to fit snugly behind each of your teeth. These braces are the only kind that is 100 percent customized to each patient.
Once the brackets are attached to the backs of your teeth, the arch wires that must be periodically adjusted can help each tooth move into its correct position. The lingual arch wires are also tooth specific. An orthodontist or orthodontics dentist trained in lingual invisible orthodontics can then correct each tooth separately. In many cases, the entire process of aligning the teeth and jaw is faster.
These braces are hidden. Many patients decide to have them because they are hidden. It can be devastating to be teased about braces, and traditional braces have always been an opportunity for teasing. If given the choice, most people would just rather not have to deal with that at all.
Learning to speak while wearing braces can be a trying problem. Many find that their gums rub against traditional braces leaving irritated or even torn skin. Lingual placement for braces can improve speaking problems for some. Although gums are less irritated, tongues can be a different issue. For some, tongues are less irritated and for others more so. It really depends on the individual. Sticky or hard foods are still forbidden. There is also more difficulty cleaning lingual invisible placements because they are more difficult to see. But for many, the comfort exceeds the problems.
Lingual placement may mean fewer adjustments over the treatment process. With less visits to see the orthodontist or orthodontics dentist possible, then discomfort may be less. It depends on the specific needs of the patient.
Good candidates for lingual invisible braces may include people who are very self-conscious about their orthodontic treatment, adult professionals, anyone that participates in contact sports, and musicians that play brass or wind instruments. Singers also tend to favor this treatment.
Some problems include finding an orthodontist or orthodontics dentist who is trained to deal with the braces. It requires special training and not all orthodontists or orthodontics dentists have the education necessary to deal with them. So finding the care you need in order to have lingual invisible braces may be difficult.
Lingual invisible braces can be more expensive than traditional ones. The metals used are heavier and require specialized treatment. Each patient will have to consider whether or not the extra expense is worth it. And the cost will simply be out of reach for some.
There are some patients whose treatment needs are so severe that lingual braces will not be enough. The only way to know for certain is to have a consultation with an orthodontist or orthodontics dentist. You may be able to keep your beautiful smile all through your orthodontic treatment.