Lingual braces

If you or you child needs braces, you're not alone: Many teenagers have braces, and a study conducted at  Harvard Medical School reports one in five orthodontic patients are adults. Braces technology has come a long way, and there are now many types you can choose from. Lingual braces, one of the more recent forms of orthodontic work, is proving popular for people conscious about the look of braces. Call @ Delhi Dental Hub for getting braces for your child by our specilists. 

What are Lingual Braces?

You already know about the traditional metal braces placed on the front of the teeth. What sets lingual braces apart is in their placement on the back of the teeth. Lingual braces are virtually invisible, and that's the main reason eligible patients choose them. This partly explains why they are more common among adults than children. One other advantage is if you play a wind instrument or a sport,  lingual braces are easier to adapt to than traditional braces. Keep in mind that you'll have to search for an orthodontist who offers lingual braces. Not all practices offer them because dentists need to take continuing education courses in order to learn to use the equipment required to place the braces.

Are Lingual Braces Right for You?

Lingual braces can be more difficult to get used to than traditional braces because the positioning of linguals affects your tongue. At first, you may find that swallowing without using a tongue thrust (placing the tongue between your teeth when swallowing) is difficult, and talking is a little tricky – not to mention that tongue thrusting places force on your teeth that can lead to more dental issues. You may need to consciously practice not using a tongue thrust when swallowing by gently touching your teeth together and then swallowing. For talking, consider over-enunciating certain words for several weeks after getting your braces. You have to be even more diligent about cleaning your teeth, because the placement of lingual braces makes it harder to check whether you have brushed away all the food particles when brushing.

Cleaning Your Teeth with Lingual Braces

Keeping your teeth clean is important, no matter what type of braces you choose. Food easily gets stuck in the brackets and wires and can cause plaque to form and tooth decay. Brush after every meal, making sure that you brush each tooth at the gum line and both above and below the brackets of your braces. Because lingual braces are on the back of your teeth, you should pay special attention to brushing back there. You may find that a toothbrush with a narrow tip, such as the Colgate Slim Soft, makes it easier to access the back of your teeth.

So what are lingual braces for? The advantage is mostly aesthetic. If you understand the challenges and are willing to make the effort required for wearing lingual braces, discuss the option with your orthodontist to determine whether it's right for you. Contact Delhi Dental Hub for getting your Lingual Braces Today.