People all over the world look forward to having a healthy smile, which motivates them to consult some of the best dentist in Karachi to straighten their teeth.
However, for many, one of the main obstacles about seeking treatment is the way conventional braces look.
Teenagers who are conscious about their image, working professionals and others who don’t want their braces to attract attention can opt for other invisible braces options.
What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces have components like conventional braces. However, they are fixed on the lingual surface of the teeth, which is the back of your teeth. Therefore, they are almost invisible.
Just like any other orthodontic dental treatment, lingual braces too have pros and cons. Moreover, every patient isn’t a potential or good candidate for lingual braces. However, the application process is the same and the guidelines are also similar. That means, hard foods, gum, and popcorn should be avoided in your diet till the treatment is over.
Advantages of Lingual Braces
Aesthetically Pleasing
The foremost advantage of lingual braces is that it does not compromise one’s aesthetical appearance. They are virtually invisible, unless when you speak, they can be seen if someone watches closely.
Decalcification
Decalcification is very common. The chances of white spots on your teeth are higher especially on the buccal surface if you have poor oral hygiene.
Hindrance in Playing Musical Instruments
Buccal braces can affect multiple actions, for example cause hindrance in playing musical instruments like the flute, and saxophone, which require a direct contact with your mouth. You may have trouble playing it as per your preferences.
Fixed
The biggest advantage of lingual braces is that they are fixed, unlike Invisalign, which are removable. You don’t have to worry about losing them and don’t even have to take them off while eating or brushing your teeth. They work on the same mechanics as buccal braces.
Disadvantages of Lingual Braces
While the advantages of lingual braces are tremendous, they are not the solution for many braces candidates.
Pain and Lacerations
Various patients with lingual braces complained of lacerations and irritation on the tongue, due to constant contact between the metal and tongue. Nevertheless, even the smaller bracket profile does not eliminate this concern completely. Moreover, some people also complained of pain due to lingual braces that they didn’t get used to fully.
Speech Changes
Your speech changes temporarily as you get used to lingual braces. Usually, any speech impairment disintegrates after three weeks of wearing the braces.
Hygiene Concern
Braces behind the teeth can be a hygiene concern and issues with cleanliness that you may not experience otherwise. With buccal braces, you can determine whether there is food impaction in your brackets and clean accordingly. It is very difficult to clean hidden braces because you cannot see what you’re cleaning.
Expensive
Although lingual braces are the same as traditional braces, they cost a bit more than traditional braces and Invisalign.
Complicated Procedure
Every dentist does not offer lingual braces because the procedure requires additional training. If you look forward to getting lingual braces, you should look for the best dentist in Lahore and Karachi for it.
Conclusion
Lingual braces are great for when it comes to straightening teeth and dealing with severe dental problems, offering prudence at the same time. They are almost completely invisible and a perfect choice for social or professional situations that don’t allow braces.