The summer holidays bring in a wave of events with it – weddings, family reunions, graduations and so much more. We’re making a whole lot of memories and there are tons of reasons to smile.
Our Orthodontist explains what lingual braces are and how they are different from other braces. Discover the secret behind a beautiful smile today.
What are Incognito lingual braces?
Lingual braces are the latest method of moving teeth invisibly. They are an excellent system for aligning teeth at the same time as delivering improvements to your bite.
Adults or people with many professional activities often ask for the possibility of an aesthetic or even “invisible” solution for their orthodontic correction. This can only be achieved when a lingual orthodontic appliance is used. The “invisible braces” are bonded on the internal (lingual) surface of the teeth and they are 100% invisible.
Incognito braces are created using a state-of-the-art technology, customized to the shape of your teeth and to your individual dental situation.
A basic requirement for any orthodontic therapy especially the lingual braces is the existence of healthy periodontal tissues (absence of periodontal disease).
Who are the right candidates for lingual braces?
A basic requirement for any orthodontic therapy especially the lingual braces is the existence of healthy periodontal tissues (absence of periodontal disease). The gingivae (gums) should be healthy without any swelling or bleeding and oral hygiene should be immaculate.
If the above requirement is fulfilled, just about anyone can wear Incognito braces – adults, teenagers, students to professionals.
What are the pros and cons of lingual braces?
- They are completely invisible so you can confidently smile.
- They are suitable for teens and adults.
- An excellent system for aligning teeth while at the same time delivering improvements to your bite.
- There are always on and always working towards perfecting your smile. You'll never have to worry about remembering to put them on or remove them while eating and drinking.
- They are more challenging to clean and you will need to have excellent oral hygiene.
- You will need a few days to adjust, as the braces might feel a little rough to the tongue.
- Lingual braces might temporarily affect your speech.
Any final tips on maintaining a healthy set of teeth while wearing braces?
Your braces provide food and plaque with more places to hide, so you will need to be extra careful with your oral hygiene routine. Your teeth must be brushed thoroughly after each meal or snack. A good brushing technique requires time and practice to master (brushing duration should be approximately 2 minutes). You will need to carry your toothbrush with you at all times. In certain cases, an electric toothbrush may be very useful. Although “orthodontic” brushes exist, any soft-bristled toothbrush that is small enough will be adequate. It is important to apply enough pressure while brushing to feel the bristles of the brush against the gum tissue.
The basis of good oral hygiene is toothbrushing but we also encourage you to use dental floss. It is obviously more difficult to use dental floss with braces but your dentist can provide you with threaders and super floss which can facilitate this task.
Dental floss should be a complement to a good brushing technique but cannot replace it.
Finally, always remember that patients with lingual braces will benefit more from hygiene appointments for professional cleaning.
