Lingual Braces – Rochester, NY | Webster, NY
Straighten Teeth Without Changing Your Smile
If you or your child has crooked or misaligned teeth, you probably have wondered if traditional braces were the only option available or if alternatives could be considered. While clear aligners are quite popular, they aren’t necessarily for everyone. Plus, they aren’t capable of addressing the more serious orthodontic concerns that can appear. That’s where lingual braces come in, a treatment that combines the best of both traditional braces and clear aligners! Learn how they work from our orthodontists ahead of your next consultation!
What are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces in Rochester are designed to mimic traditional braces in terms of their function and structure. However, the key difference between them and the braces that most people know about is their placement. Lingual braces are designed to attached to the backsides of teeth, rather than on the front surface where they are clearly visible. They can be used to address varying levels of misalignment, gaps, tooth rotations and more, just like traditional braces do. This makes them a great option for those with orthodontic concerns who don’t want to change their smile’s appearance or deal with the compliance that comes with wearing clear aligners.
How Do Lingual Braces Work?
Lingual braces use gentle force over a long period of time to push teeth into straighter and healthier positions. To receive your lingual braces, one of our orthodontists will capture an impression of your teeth using our in-house digital impression scanner. Using this data, we’ll be able to create your customized brackets over the next several weeks. When you come back, we’ll cement the brackets to your teeth and thread the archwire through each of them so they can begin to move your teeth.
The amount of time needed to realign your smile with lingual braces is comparable to that of traditional braces, or roughly 18 to 36 months depending on your specific orthodontic concerns.
Are Lingual Braces Right for You?
Keep in mind that because lingual braces in Webster provide cosmetic benefits and use fully customized brackets, they will likely cost more than traditional braces. However, they are the perfect solution for those who:
- Want to maintain a professional image while straightening teeth
- Are concerned about the appearance of braces in general
- Want to play a wind instrument while wearing braces
- Want to play contact sports without increased risk for damaging their orthodontic appliance
Furthermore, lingual braces are really most effective for teenagers and adults, not children. That means if you have a child whose teeth are not fully developed, traditional braces or another orthodontic appliance may be more appropriate. Alternatively, those who have severe bite problems may not be candidates for lingual braces, which is why you’ll need to complete a consultation with our office beforehand.
Lingual Braces FAQs
Our team would love to help you straighten your smile via lingual braces. Before you come in for a consultation, though, you might want to learn more about this treatment and how it works. Below, we address some relevant FAQs. If your specific questions are not included here, feel free to reach out to us directly. We will be delighted to speak with you!
Will Lingual Braces Affect My Speech?
Some patients experience minor speech alterations, such as a lisp, when they first get lingual braces. After all, it can take a bit of time for your tongue to adapt to working with your braces. Speech issues usually disappear within a few days, but if they persist, you are welcome to reach out to us with your concerns.
How Should I Clean My Teeth with Lingual Braces?
Just like with any other form of orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene is of critical importance during treatment with lingual braces. Our team can teach you the techniques you should use to clean around your brackets and wires. You might need to use some special instruments, such as small interdental brushes or a water flosser, to clean all the nooks and crannies in your mouth. It is recommended that you brush and floss after each meal. With a bit of practice, your new oral hygiene routine should quickly become an easy part of your treatment!
Do Lingual Braces Hurt?
Lingual braces are custom-made for each patient, and we always try to make them as comfortable as possible. However, it is important to bear in mind that orthodontic treatment is effective because it places pressure on the teeth. Naturally, that can cause a bit of discomfort, especially when you first get your braces or get them adjusted.
You can mitigate any discomfort by:
- Sipping on cool water.
- Taking pain relievers as necessary.
- Eating soft foods.
Severe pain is not normal. If that ever occurs, you should reach out to us immediately.
Why Doesn’t Every Orthodontist Offer Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces require extra training and knowledge, so some orthodontists choose not to offer them. However, our team is committed to providing a wide range of options to patients, which is why Dr. Drabik confidently offers lingual braces and many other orthodontic treatment options.
Do Lingual Braces Cost More?
When you visit us for your consultation, we can provide a personalized estimate. In most cases, lingual braces do cost more than traditional metal braces, simply due to their more complex treatment process.
Many patients who choose lingual braces believe they are a good use of money due to their outstanding aesthetics and predictable results.
If you are unsure of whether you can afford your treatment, talk to us. With the help of financing and other provisions, you might be surprised by how easy it is to fit a straighter, healthier smile into your budget!