Lingual (also known as hidden) braces are braces that can’t be easily seen in everyday life.
Whether you’re talking, eating or even smiling for the camera, barely anyone would notice them which makes them an ideal alternative to traditional braces, particularly for those of us who are more self conscious.
They are fitted to the back of your teeth rather than the front. As well as being practically invisible, they are still a type of fixed metal brace, so can be used to treat everything that traditional fixed braces can. This includes many problems that cannot be treated effectively with removable clear aligners .
There are 2 versions of lingual braces; one of which is the ‘social brace’ which treats only the front teeth. These are more suitable for cosmetic straightening of minor problems. The other is the more standard full mouth brace which is used for more extensive or serious issues.
So, if you’re considering getting your teeth straightened, or would like to get rid of gaps in your teeth, read on to learn more about the benefits of lingual braces.
1. Almost invisible at a glance
As we touched on above, lingual braces aren’t also known as hidden braces for no reason. We fit them to the inside of your teeth (called the lingual surface) and the low-profile braces follow the natural curve of your teeth to give the best comfort and least interference with your day to day life.
2. No white spots on teeth
If you know someone who has had braces in the past then they may have developed white spots on the front of their teeth.
For some, they may have been there before treatment and were caused by genetics, nutrition or other factors. However, white and brown marks can also form on the teeth, caused by plaque buildup, which leads to decalcification if toothbrushing isn’t at a high enough standard .
Hidden braces significantly reduce this happening, and if it does, the marks are left out of sight on the back of the teeth.
3. Tailormade for your mouth
After an initial consultation where your treatment plan is agreed, we’ll take a digital scan of your teeth which will be used to create a bespoke brace that will perfectly fit your mouth and meet the exact needs that you have.
This precision gives us even greater control over the movement of your teeth, ensuring we reach the desired outcome more efficiently.
Lingual braces are made from precious metal, this makes them as flat and smooth as possible, so they are more comfortable in your mouth. However, it’s important to note you may experience some initial discomfort as your tongue gets used to it.
4. Great option for contact sports like rugby
As with other types of braces, lingual braces can be worn at any age. We will also conduct an initial consultation to ascertain whether they are the best option for you. As part of this session, we’ll discuss your particular needs.
Hidden braces can be a good option if you play contact sports like rugby. If you receive a blow to the mouth area with braces on the front of the teeth, there is an increased risk of injuries to the inside of the lips. With braces on the back of the teeth, this is much less likely to happen, although you will still need to wear a mouth guard over the top.
They are also a good choice if you play a wind instrument as there should be much less interference compared to a brace on the front.
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An added bonus with lingual braces is that you’ll be able to watch your teeth transform as you progress through your journey. The results aren’t hidden behind metal brackets and wires so you get to enjoy your smile sooner.
If you think that lingual braces could be the best option for you, or you’d like to discuss other orthodontic procedures, please make an appointment with one of our experienced team.