When most people think of braces, we are immediately struck with images of teeth covered in bulky metal braces and/or headgear, along with feelings of dread for how painful braces must be. However, with so many advances in technology, especially orthodontic technology, children, teenagers, and adults are all able to straighten their teeth in a much more aesthetically pleasing way and in a way that is less painful than past methods. For some people this means opting for invisible aligners, but for others lingual braces may be the better option.
Many people have never heard of lingual braces, but they are quickly becoming an option for people who wish to have a beautiful and healthy smile without worrying about bulky brackets on the front of their teeth. Even though these aren’t a common orthodontic procedure, lingual braces in Idaho Falls have been around since the 1970s. Lingual braces, sometimes referred to hidden or incognito braces, are just like regular brackets, but are placed on the inside of the tooth rather than on the outside.
How do you know if lingual braces are right for you? While there are some obvious advantages of lingual braces (you can’t see them) there are also some disadvantages. If you have been referred by your dentist to see an orthodontist about braces, he or she can help you decide what is the best option for you based on your specific goals and alignment issues. For now, the following information will serve as an overview about lingual braces and assist you in your decision of whether or not lingual braces are the best option for you.
What Are Lingual Braces & How Do They Work?
Lingual braces are braces that are placed behind the teeth, next to the tongue and palate making them a great alternative for people who want straighter teeth, but don’t want their braces showing.
If you plan on getting fitted for lingual braces in Idaho Falls, our orthodontist will first want to make an impression of your teeth and bite. This enables them to create customized brackets for your braces. The process between getting the impression of your teeth and actually getting the braces placed on the back of the teeth can take up to six weeks. Once lingual braces are placed on the teeth they work in the same way as regular braces work; gently applying continuous pressure on the teeth to move them into the correct position. This can take anywhere from 18-36 months depending on the person’s current alignment, bite and any overcrowding.
How Much Do Lingual Braces Cost?
Since lingual braces are a completely customized orthodontic treatment, they tend to cost more than traditional braces. Additionally, due to the placement of lingual braces you may be required to visit your orthodontist more than you would with traditional braces, thus adding additional costs. According to Oral-B, the cost for lingual braces usually ranges between $8,000 to $10,000. If you have dental insurance, the costs will most likely be covered (depending on your insurance provider and deductible) so the price isn’t really something you need to worry about if you have good dental insurance coverage.
The Pros & Cons of Lingual Braces
Before deciding on which braces to get, it’s always a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Idaho Falls lingual braces are a beneficial option for many people, especially adults who want to straighten their teeth without the obvious “metal-mouth”. The following are some of the advantages that lingual braces can offer:
- Efficiency – Lingual braces are able to provide the same standard of efficiency that traditional metal braces provide. This is an especially important advantage, as many people who use invisible aligners will often complain of the lack of efficiency or length of time it takes to straighten their smile.
- No Lasting Damage – As long as you maintain proper oral hygiene and take care of your teeth as prescribed by your Idaho Falls orthodontist, you shouldn’t have to worry about any damage on the front of your teeth with traditional braces. However, if for some reason damage does arise (decalcification and white spots) from traditional braces, the effects can be permanent. This is something you don’t have to worry about with lingual braces, since if there is damage, no one will be able to see.
- Great for Musicians – Traditional braces impact various activities such as eating and even playing a musical instrument, especially a woodwind. Lingual braces don’t interfere with musical instruments that you play with your mouth.
- Aesthetically Pleasing – Probably the most obvious advantage is that no one can tell you are even wearing braces with lingual braces. This is one of the main reasons that lingual braces in Idaho Falls are so popular for both teenagers and adults alike.
As with any orthodontic treatment, there are some disadvantages that need to be considered before you make the decision to be fitted for lingual braces. Any concerns you have about lingual braces or any other type of braces will be addressed at your initial consultation with an Idaho Falls orthodontist. The following are some of the most common complaints, people with lingual braces have had:
- Tongue Irritation – Probably the biggest disadvantage of lingual braces is the constant contact between your tongue and the metal brackets. This can cause serious irritation for some and can be hard to get used to. However, advances in orthodontic technology treatments are being made everyday and your orthodontist may be able to fit you will smaller brackets or offer other therapy options to avoid irritation.
- Speech Issues – Generally speaking, speech issues are something that happens to most people when they first are fitted for braces. You may have trouble talking for the first week or two, but this will go away once you get used to talking with lingual braces.
- More Expensive – As previously mentioned, lingual braces in Idaho Falls are more expensive than traditional braces. For many people who have reputable insurance providers, this won’t be a problem once your dental deductible is met.
If your considering getting lingual braces in Idaho Falls, contact Randall Orthodontics today! At your first appointment we will recommend the best therapy option for you, whether it be lingual braces, aligners,or traditional braces.. Our mission is to help you create a healthy and beautiful smile with fewer visits, thanks to our advanced technology.
So what are you waiting for? A straight, healthy smile is only a phone call away!