If you need braces to correct crooked or misaligned teeth, you may be wishing to avoid the metal-mouth appearance for the next 18 – 36 months. Lingual braces are one such treatment, and they are almost impossible to detect. They are custom designed to attach to the back of your teeth, and unless someone purposefully looks into your mouth, they will not see your braces.
Lingual braces also have brackets, wires and elastics to pull the teeth into the correct position. Since they are on the back of the teeth where the tongue is, they are called lingual or inside braces. Conventional braces on the front of the teeth are called outside braces. They both use the same type of hardware.
There are a few things to keep in mind with lingual braces. Since they will be placed on the back of your teeth, they might take some getting used to. However, most patients adjust to the feeling of these types of braces quite well. You can take steps to increase your comfort as you start to adjust. For example, there are over-the-counter numbing gels available to make your tongue more comfortable if it rubs against the braces. You can also apply orthodontic wax on any sharp edges. We will help you find the right solution to reduce the discomfort. There are continued advancements in the design of lingual braces to minimize problems and maximize comfort.
Lingual braces come with many of the same care requirements as traditional braces do. Some foods will need to be avoided, as they can break brackets and wires. These include apples, raw carrots, nuts, hard rolls, pizza crust, soft caramels and chewing gum. It will be easier to eat pasta, rice, fish, cooked veggies and soft bread.
As with traditional braces, lingual braces require time and attention for cleaning after every meal. There are special tools and toothbrushes that will help make the process easier. Dr. Ragan can help you learn more about properly caring for your teeth with braces during your first appointment.
Lingual braces are ideal for those who are especially conscious about showing a mouth full of metal. Our orthodontist is specially trained and has years of experience providing Dallas with lingual braces, ensuring you get custom orthodontic care designed for your comfort.
When you consult with our trusted orthodontist at Ragan Orthodontics, you can learn if lingual braces are a good option for your orthodontic issues. They are a suitable option for patients who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment. Contact our office in Dallas today to learn more about lingual braces and the other types of braces we offer!