Lingual braces are placed on the inner side, back of the teeth therefore they are invisible. Braces are an increasingly popular solution to misaligned or irregular teeth. More than 3 million American teens wear braces, and 20 percent of those who wear braces are adults. The advent of less visible braces has contributed to the rise in popularity of this invisible orthodontic solution to common problems that braces can fix. Braces are now one of the most frequently requested orthodontic procedures that we perform.
Table of Contents
What Are Lingual Braces?
Overview
Lingual braces gently reshape misaligned teeth just like traditional metal braces, but lingual braces are placed on the backs of the teeth, which makes them virtually invisible. For this reason alone, they’re more popular among adults, especially those who are established in their careers. However, unlike other types of braces, they also facilitate playing sports or a wind instrument. Therefore, if you’re musically inclined or sports-minded, then lingual braces may be more appropriate for you than other types of braces.
Ease of Use
Lingual braces are glued to the backs of the teeth, so children or those who have short teeth may not be suitable candidates for lingual braces. Sometimes, lingual braces can impede enunciation and cause difficulty with swallowing, but speech therapy can help to resolve some of the problems. Some people may find that the wires and brackets on the back are too uncomfortable to wear for an extended time. Thorough cleaning is especially important for those who wear lingual braces since food particles may remain in the backs of the teeth without the wearer’s knowledge, so lingual braces require excellent daily oral hygiene.
Lingual Braces vs Invisalign
Although both types of braces are virtually invisible, they’re entirely different in application, treatment time, and maintenance.
- Both systems can be customized to the patient.
- Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces in that they’re metal, use brackets and wires, and are glued to the teeth, whereas Invisalign braces are clear plastic trays that gently reshape the teeth.
- Lingual braces are permanent applications that can only be removed by a dentist, whereas Invisalign trays are removed for cleaning and during eating or drinking.
- Lingual braces may require a somewhat longer treatment time than Invisalign trays.
- Lingual braces may be less comfortable than Invisalign and may require a longer adjustment time.
How Much Do Lingual Braces Cost?
As with all dental procedures, your lingual braces cost will be influenced by:
- The duration of your treatment: Depending on the length of your treatment, you may require more office visits. The rate of correction will be specific to your physiology, so you may require lesser or more time for the alignment to be complete.
- Your insurance coverage: The extent of your insurance coverage will play a major role in your ultimate lingual braces cost.
- The type of appliance chosen: Although many people choose lingual braces, you may not be a good candidate for them, but your dentist will advise you of the best type of braces for your unique needs.
- The area in which you live: Braces are more expensive in some areas of the country.
The average cost for lingual braces is between $4,000 and $14,000. During your initial consultation, your dentist will provide you with a comprehensive estimate of your fees and your ultimate cost for your braces.
What Is The Lingual Braces Advantage?
The primary benefit of lingual braces is that they’re invisible. Adults who are already established in their careers may be self-conscious about wearing braces, so lingual braces provide the benefit of straight, even teeth without the obviousness of traditional metal braces.
What Are The Lingual Braces Disadvantages?
Not all patients are good candidates for lingual braces, such as those who have a severe overbite, those who have dietary restrictions, and those who aren’t dedicated to excellent oral hygiene. Another disadvantage is the treatment time. Usually, it can take up to two years, but it can take up to three years for the treatment to be completed.
Comfort Comparison: Lingual Braces vs Invisalign vs Traditional Braces
Lingual Braces And Metal Braces
Typically, metal braces are the least comfortable of the braces options, whether they’re affixed to the front or the back of the teeth. The metal wires and brackets can irritate or cut the tongue and cheek, and they can trap food particles and require additional maintenance. They can also cause problems with eating certain types of foods, such as sticky foods or tough foods.
Invisalign
Invisalign trays are removed for eating, so there are no dietary restrictions. Since Invisalign trays are made from plastic, there’s less abrasion of sensitive mouth tissues than there is with traditional metal braces.
How Long Is The Lingual Braces Average Treatment Time?
Usually, the procedure takes between one and two years, but it can take as long as three years. Some patients will require longer treatment times due to slower tooth movement. Longer treatment times will cost more because it will require more office visits, but your dentist will advise you of the approximate time it will take.
Where Do I Find Lingual Braces in Houston Texas?
If you live in the Houston Texas area and want information on the lingual braces effectiveness, then call Voss Dental for an appointment at 713-322-8811. Voss Dental believes all patients should receive the dental care they need without having to worry about budgetary constraints, so we offer Care Credit to our Houston Texas patients so that they can afford the care that they need. If you have any questions, call our Voss Dental office, and we’ll be happy to answer them. The following FAQ may also answer some of the most common questions.
FAQ
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The average cost of braces will depend on the type of braces that are selected, but in general, you can expect the following:
- Aligner trays $2,000 to $8,000
- Ceramic braces $2,000 to $9,500
- Lingual braces $4,000 to $14,000
- Traditional metal braces $2,000 to $8,350
Are Lingual Braces Effective?
Lingual braces are equally as effective as traditional metal braces, and they are substantially less visible. The lingual braces treatment times are similar and depend primarily on the patient’s response to the treatment.
Are There Lingual Braces For Overbite?
Yes, they can work for overbites, depending on the individual, but your dentist will recommend whether they’ll be a good solution for you if you have an overbite.
How Long Do Lingual Braces Stay On For?
You’ll need to wear your braces for between one and three years, depending on the speed with which your tooth alignment changes. You’ll probably need to wear a retainer after that, but your dentist will advise you about this.
Do Lingual Braces Hurt?
They have about the same comfort level as traditional metal braces, so yes, there may be some initial discomfort. However, the discomfort is temporary, and your dentist will help you with solutions for it.
How Much Are Lingual Braces?
Your cost will be unique to you and will depend on the length of your treatment, your insurance coverage, and the area in which you live. Your dentist will provide you with a cost estimate during your initial consultation.
Are There Problems With Lingual Braces?
You should have no abnormal problems with your lingual braces because your dentist at Voss Dental will recommend the best type of braces for your situation. If you have any problems, then call our office, and we’ll help you.
Is There An Advantage To Braces Behind Your Teeth?
The primary advantage of lingual braces is aesthetic. When braces are behind your teeth, your smile will gradually improve, but it won’t be obvious that you’re wearing braces.
Metal Braces vs Lingual Braces: Which Is Better?
Both lingual and traditional metal braces are made of stainless steel, so their comfort level is similar. Aesthetics is the major difference between the two. Adults are more likely to use the lingual system, whereas traditional metal braces are more frequently used by children, teens, and young adults.