Lingual Braces Maple Grove & Edina - Minneapolis Metro

Having straight teeth is not only for aesthetics but for the health of your teeth. If you have crowded and crooked teeth, orthodontic treatment can help sort them out. Braces are the best way to achieve the goal of straight teeth but many people do not relish the idea of having a mouthful of metal, especially adults. One way to get around the appearance of braces is to use an invisible option. Here, we will discuss lingual braces.

What are lingual braces?

Lingual braces use the same tried and true bracket and wire system but the brackets are placed on the back of the teeth, or the lingual side, by the tongue instead of on the front of the teeth for all to see.

Once your orthodontist has determined that you are a candidate for lingual braces, they will take an impression of your teeth and send it to their dental lab. The lab will then use the models of your teeth to fabricate brackets designed just for your case, which takes about six weeks. Once your case has been received by your orthodontist, they will be able to cement the brackets to the lingual side of your teeth and thus begin your treatment!

Lingual braces work the same as traditional braces, using continuous gentle pressure on the teeth to slowly shift them into the desired position. As with other braces, the length of treatment depends on the severity of your case. Treatment can range from 18 to 36 months.

Lingual braces are custom made for each patient and therefore are a bit more costly and require more treatment than traditional braces. They usually start at about $5000 and can be more depending on your case and even where you choose to receive treatment. Not all orthodontists offer lingual braces as a treatment option since they require special training and expertise. The American Lingual Association of Orthodontists can help guide you to the top provider in your area.

Types of Lingual Braces

The goal behind lingual braces remains the same regardless of the brand. Your orthodontist may only work with one brand so it is important to do your research and determine what you are looking for and what you think will best deliver the results you want. Some of the most popular brands making lingual braces include:

• iBraces
• Incognito
• In-Ovation
• STb Light Lingual System
• Suresmile Lingual QT

Oral Health Care with Lingual Braces

Your oral hygiene routine is always an important part of your daily self-care practices but when you are going through orthodontic treatment, it is vital that you maintain if not improve your oral care routine. Along with regular visits to your dentist, your routine should include:

• Brushing at least twice daily for a minimum of two minutes, taking care at the gumline
• Using a floss threader, where needed, to floss thoroughly once a day
• Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen tooth enamel
• Flushing out food and debris from around the brackets and the teeth after eating

Where traditional braces irritate the inside of the cheeks, lingual braces can irritate the tongue and cause sores where there is a lot of friction. Orthodontic wax can be placed over the offending brackets. Patients are likely to have trouble enunciating while getting used to their braces but that is normal and should subside as you become accustomed to your new braces.

You may consider visiting your dental hygienist more than your usual twice per year while undergoing orthodontic treatment. They will ensure that your teeth are staying healthy while they are being moved to their new position and that your gums and tongue are not irritated too much.

Braces can be daunting but knowing that you have a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime is worth the effort. If you are hesitant about receiving orthodontic treatment, speak with your dentist to determine if it is a good treatment option for you. Some orthodontists offer in house financing options that can help alleviate the financial burden of orthodontia. Braces are an investment in the health of your teeth and the confidence of your smile so be sure to do your research before determining if lingual braces are right for you and your lifestyle.