Lingual braces are not very different from traditional metal or ceramic braces in how they operate. However, there is a measurable difference between their forms and how and where they are placed. Essentially, they are placed inside the curvature of the teeth using the same concept brackets and wires as is the case with traditional metal and ceramic bases, but without their visibility. What follows is a list of the pros and cons attributed to this type of brace;
Pros
- Obviously, the biggest advantage of lingual braces is that they are invisible from the outside. In the majority of brace-wearers, the most unpleasant part of treatment is not the actual physical discomfort sometimes involved but, the embarrassment of the “unsightly” appearance attributed to them. Lingual braces diminish this problem.
- Lingual braces come in various designs so if there is a need for customization (to suit a unique misalignment issue), this is entirely possible. These braces are made especially for your mouth. Traditional braces do not address this need and are made as standard.
- Conventional braces tend to get discoloured when food gets clogged in the brackets and staining occurs. With WIN lingual braces, this is not an issue. While the braces would get stained and become dirty, they would not be visible to others.
- There are plenty of well-known brands of lingual braces and you may choose one that tends to your needs within your own particular budget (At Dental House we use the WIN system). The industry is better regulated than conventional braces. Almost anyone can come up with conventional brace systems but, with lingual braces, you won’t get just any random company making them.
Cons
- Lingual braces are considerably more expensive than traditional metal or ceramic braces. Also, the more customization you opt for, the more expensive they become. You can opt for generic designs but then you are doing away with the advantage that customized designs have to offer.
- Lingual braces are extremely difficult to clean. You don’t get to see your braces so you don’t know how dirty they are or how stained they have gotten. They have to be removed to even know what condition they are in.
- Traditional braces are uncomfortable but lingual braces are said to be more so. Pain is a subjective though so it is really very difficult to infer if lingual braces are more painful than traditional braces. Certainly, initial discomfort would always be more intense.
- Lingual braces take longer to be placed and adjusted. A session with a dentist would have taken fifteen minutes if you have traditional braces. The same session can take more than half an hour or even an hour with incognito lingual braces.
To book an appointment with Dr Perry please email info@castleknockorthodontics.ie
Or visit us at Dental house
Opening April 2016
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