Lingual braces sit on the backs of the teeth vs on the front. We are often asked if we provide lingual braces as an option and how they compare to Invisalign clear aligners.
What are Lingual Braces?
As you know, traditional metal braces placed on the front of the teeth, and straighten teeth via a system of brackets, wires and elastics. They straighten teeth over a period or months or years.
Lingual braces are very similar to traditional metal braces, only they are placed on the backs of the teeth, hiding them from view.
Lingual braces typically cost more than traditional braces, and may make treatment take a little longer.
Are Lingual Braces an option at Fraser Valley Orthodontics?
We do not provide this orthodontics treatment option for various reasons. The primary reason is the often uncomfortable experience for our patients.
Blisters and ulcers of the tongue are common side effects of lingual braces in Langley.
Having said that, we have found that with our level of experience, we can treat most types of situations with Invisalign. Please contact our office to see what your options are.
Lingual Braces vs Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign aligners are removable and this is considered to be one of their advantages. Being able to remove the aligners makes it easier for patients to eat, brush and floss while undergoing treatment.
Advantages of lingual braces
Lingual braces are completely hidden. Even up close, friends and family will struggle to spot them (unless you have a habit of throwing your head back when you laugh).
Lingual braces are suitable for everyone.
They are just as effective at straightening a single tooth as they are at tackling significant dental crowding.
Lingual braces give your orthodontist maximum control over the movement of your teeth, and towards the end of your treatment we can make small adjustments to give you the best final result.
Because lingual braces are fixed to your teeth during your treatment, you don’t need to worry about removing them at mealtimes and potentially losing your brace.
Disadvantages of lingual braces
Lingual braces can be uncomfortable to begin with
You may find you have a slight lisp for the first few days.
Because your brace is hidden on the inside of your teeth you might be less inclined to remove stray morsels of food.
Lingual braces can be more expensive than Invisalign.
Advantages of Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are very discreet and your orthodontic treatment will for the most part go unnoticed.
Because you can remove your aligners to clean your teeth, it makes it easier to keep up a good oral hygiene routine.
Invisalign aligners are designed to be comfortable, and there are no metal brackets or wires to potentially irritate the inside of your mouth.
If you’re a teenager there’s an Invisalign brace just for you: it features wear indicators to make sure you’re wearing your aligners for long enough each day. And it also allows for the eruption of your permanent teeth.
Disadvantages of Invisalign
Invisalign aligners will also take some getting used to, and you might find that they feel quite tight to begin with.
Invisalign only works while you’re wearing your aligners, and you need to keep them in for at least 22 hours each day.