Lingual braces and Invisalign aligners are the latest available choices for teeth alignment issues. Unlike traditional wire braces that are made from metal and brackets, these new braces are clear and nearly invisible. The type of braces you select depends on your orthodontic requirements, lifestyle, and budget. The choice you make should be guided by the advice of your clinician and your individual circumstances.
Alignment braces are not worn by only teens, but adults can certainly wear them too. Lingual braces and Invisalign treatment are very popular because of their aesthetic appearance. To spot Invisalign aligners, you have to look really hard to see them, and lingual braces are totally hidden from view.
If you are self-conscious about wearing braces, then you will most definitely find wearing lingual braces and Invisalign aligners pleasing and to help you make this very important decision, here is summary of lingual braces and Invisalign.
Invisalign Braces
Invisalign is designed to be invisible and aesthetically appealing. They are practically invisible at normal distances. A series of aligner trays are made from comfortable, transparent plastic that are worn over the teeth. Patients wear the aligners for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the set. The translucent aligner pads do not stain, discolour, deform or bend. They are tooth-coloured, which means they blend in with teeth. There are no wires and eating is usually not a problem. Invisalign aligners are removable and you can remove them when you brush and floss.
Invisalign aligners can, however, be seen when viewed from very close. The aligner is not an option to move teeth vertically or for back teeth issues. You have to visit the dentist to change or add aligners. Since Invisalign aligners are removable, there is a chance they could be lost or even broken. This can prevent from happening by placing the aligners in their protective case. Removable aligners may lengthen the period of treatment, if not worn for the required amount of time, which affects how teeth are finally aligned.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces have been around since the 1980s. In this type of treatment small brackets, together with a wire, are glued behind the teeth. The biggest advantage of lingual braces is that they behind your teeth, which means they are almost completely hidden from view and people won’t know you are wearing them. Lingual braces can be used to treat alignment problems like crowding and crooked teeth. Since the braces are fixed to your teeth during treatment, the chance of losing or damaging them is minimal.
Lingual aligners move and align teeth a little more gradually. They also may tend to rub against your tongue, sometimes causing soreness and discomfort. Some patients experience a slight lisp after lingual braces have been fitted. Lingual orthodontics requires a high level of skill and specialist materials, and these factors are reflected in the price.
Invisalign and Lingual braces are not obtrusive compared to traditional wire braces. Whichever braces you choose, you will be smiling with satisfaction when the treatment is over.
