Wearing braces for many kids was the mark of growing up. The braces would help to straighten teeth and create a long-lasting beautiful smile, but braces often had to be worn over a period of a year or more to be effective. This created difficult eating situations sometimes… not to mention the temptation of gum! Lingual braces, on the other hand, provide the same benefits as the traditional braces so many had growing up, but they do so on the back side of the teeth instead.
Here Are the Pros of Lingual Braces
The primary benefit of lingual braces is an aesthetic one. Because the braces are located behind the teeth, there is less of a self-esteem or confidence issue associated with wearing them. A natural smile is still seen, even though the braces are firmly attached.
Lingual braces take the same amount of time to adjust teeth when compared to other forms of braces. Though they are considered the most expensive type of braces to have installed, they are also the least visible and for many people the cost is worth the lack of visible braces.
Here Are the Cons of Lingual Braces
The initial problem with lingual braces is that they are more difficult to clean. Because they are behind the teeth, it can be difficult to see all the food debris that could be stuck in the brace, meaning more time must be invested in the daily cleaning to prevent future teeth issues.
Lingual braces aren’t considered the right option for more severe cases of teeth realignment either. Only specific types of teeth straightening can be done with these braces and that can only be determined by an exam from your dentist.
Any adjustments that need to be made also take longer and the overall cost of these braces is often more because of the extended work that is involved to install them and then care for them over time. Because the braces are on the back of the teeth, tongue irritation is a common side effect that people experience. Some speech issues can also be troublesome for the first couple weeks after the braces have been installed.
Are Lingual Braces Right For You?
If you’re concerned about what your appearance will be with the installation of traditional braces on the front of your teeth, then lingual braces could be a viable choice for you. If your straightening needs are minor, your dentist may consider you to be a viable candidate for this type of braces. Though they can be difficult to clean and maintain, the ability to have straighter teeth without visible braces is often something that helps personally and professionally in terms of confidence.
If you’re thinking about braces or your dentist has recommended that you get braces, then have a discussion about the possibility of lingual braces. They just might be the right choice for you.
