Lingual braces are very similar to traditional braces with one main important difference. They are completely hidden. The braces are fitted on the back or the insides of the teeth next to the tongue and palate out of sight making them extremely discreet and a great cosmetic alternative for those not wanting a brace that can be seen. Only your dentist or orthodontist and can usually see the braces by using a small dental mirror. Because of how discreet these braces are, some patients chose not to tell their friends or family that they have these braces, indeed they really are that unnoticeable!
Lingual braces are bespoke, made and manufactured for each individual patient and the braces are made of either stainless steel or gold. There are several brands, two of the main ones being Incognito or secret smile. Because the braces are bespoke and made for each individual patient, this means they align the teeth really quickly. They are just like traditional braces in the way that every 6-8 weeks they are adjusted but usually there is faster tooth movement that occurs because this type of brace can be fitted with special mechanisms which allow the teeth to slide, rotate and move faster into their desired end position. The front upper and lower 6 teeth are commonly treated using lingual braces and the treatment can be completed within 6-10 weeks for minor corrections.
This is a fantastic treatment option if you do not want braces to be seen and like normal braces the only downside is that the brackets can rub the cheeks or lips a little when they are first fitted. After the first two or three weeks this isn’t usually an issue and there are ways that your dentist or orthodontist can help prevent discomfort during these early stages. Speech can sometimes be affected with lingual braces because the brackets are closer to the tongue. By the end of the first month this isn’t usually a problem.
Lingual braces start at £2400.00 at Birchgrove Dental Practice in Cardiff. We offer payment plans which help spread the cost of the treatment. However not every patient is suitable for the treatment. Because these braces are fitted on the inside of the teeth it can be technically quite challenging to fit and adjust them if the teeth are extremely rotated or in a bad position. This would mean that another brace option may be better for that person. An extremely high level of oral hygiene is required as with most braces, oral hygiene needs to be kept at an extremely high level in order to prevent any gum or tooth damage throughout your orthodontic treatment.
The other option for completely discreet braces would be Invisalign which is the clear aligner system with clear aligners that can be taken in and out. The difference is that these are removable whereas lingual braces are not. Invisalign can help with oral hygiene levels being maintained at a high level because they can be removed and the teeth can be brushed and cleaned easier.
We offer a complimentary consultation at our friendly dental practice in Cardiff. Our dentist Craig provides a thorough chat to find out which treatment would be best suited for each individual patient. Please call 02920693858 and our reception staff would be happy to book you in.
