When you are an adult with a more complex case of dental misalignment, the hyped or popular options for correcting misalignments like Invisalign are simply not going to be an option for you.
And you may feel that the only way you will be able to get the straighter teeth you want is with a fitted brace. This may indeed be the case, but there is a way that you can have a fitted brace that has a minimal impact on your appearance.
Our team at Align and Smile have been working with all manner of orthodontic tools for years, and if you need a bit more support to move your teeth, our dentist in Canary Wharf will be able to offer you lingual braces.
So, if you have never heard of lingual braces or simply want to know a bit more before you book the appointment with our dentist in Canary Wharf, here are five things you need to consider.
They are at the back!
Lingual braces are placed on the back (lingual) side of the teeth, making them invisible from the front.
However, while this makes them invisible, it also means that they will require more maintenance to keep them clean. You will need to see our dentist in Canary Wharf regularly to ensure that there are no underlying issues that can lead to gum disease or tooth decay.
They are custom-fitted!
Much like traditional braces, lingual braces are custom-made to fit your teeth, and they use the same kinds of brackets and wires that regular metal braces use.
This means that they can be used to correct more complex cases of dental misalignment and will also work faster too!
The treatment time is longer
It has to be said that when it comes to correcting dental misalignments with lingual braces, it may take longer than it would with regular braces.
This is because there is an undeniable complexity related to placing the braces at the back of the teeth. But for many patients, due to the discreet nature of the braces, this is a trade-off that they are willing and happy to make.
There may be discomfort
As they are fitted braces, they are going to need to be adjusted by our team. And so, you will need to visit our dental surgery at least once a month for tightening and adjustments to be made.
As a result, there will be discomfort; this is usually mitigated with over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. But, you need to be aware that due to the position of the braces, there may also be chafing on your tongue, and you may also need to invest in dental wax to help manage any hard edges.
They are usually more expensive
For many people, having lingual braces fitted does mean that they will need to pay more.
After all, it takes a specialist orthodontist to fit them correctly and to move the teeth with them, as they are in an unusual location.
So, this increases the price, but our team can offer financing options to help you spread the cost.