Lingual braces are a type of treatment that uses wires and brackets on the inside surface of your teeth, working to straighten the teeth in a more discreet way than traditional metal braces. While they aren’t quite as invisible as clear aligners, they are a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to worry about wearing metal braces for an extended period of time and the impact this will have on their appearance. Today, we are going to discover what lingual braces are and how long lingual braces take to work. Our team at 207 Dental will be here to support you throughout the treatment process and help you get the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
What are Lingual Braces?
To understand how long treatment might take, it is important to begin by explaining what lingual braces are. Lingual braces are orthodontic appliances that function in a very similar way to traditional metal braces. However, instead of being attached to the front of the teeth, the brackets and wires are fixed to the back, which is called the lingual side. This means they are less noticeable to others, making them a good choice for patients who want to straighten their teeth without changing their appearance and smile during the process. They are often compared to Invisalign braces when people are considering their treatment options, thanks to their discreet nature.
How Do Lingual Braces Work?
If you are wondering how lingual braces work to move your teeth into your desired position, you’ll be surprised by how simple yet effective the process is. Just like traditional braces, lingual braces use brackets and wires to put gentle, continuous pressure on the teeth. Over time, this pressure guides the teeth into their ideal alignment. As the braces sit behind the teeth, lingual braces are virtually invisible, making them particularly appealing to adults and professionals. In a similar way to the Invisalign attachments you may need when using Invisalign clear aligners, the chances of someone noticing your braces, unless they are very close to you, are much smaller.
Now that you know what the lingual braces definition is, you might be wondering how the treatment process works. Your treatment will begin with an assessment and impression of your teeth to see the current position of your teeth and the desired end result. Custom brackets are then created to fit the unique shape of each tooth. Once fitted, the orthodontist adjusts the wires from time to time during your check-up appointments to ensure the teeth continue to move correctly. While the process remains similar to standard braces, lingual braces often require more precision because of their positioning. For some patients, this may increase the treatment time, but this will all be dependent on your unique case and the current positioning of your teeth.
Average Treatment Time for Lingual Braces
The average treatment duration with lingual braces is between 18 and 36 months. For minor crowding or spacing issues, results may be visible in as little as 12 months. More complex cases, such as severe misalignment or bite correction, can take over two years to see the final results. There are various factors that will determine how long it takes for your treatment to work. The main consideration is the severity of your misalignment. Mild crowding or gaps can often be corrected quickly than complex bite problems such as an underbite. Teeth tend to move more easily in younger patients and teenagers, so adults may require a slightly longer treatment time. Finally, you need to ensure that you are following your dentist’s instructions at all times and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Lingual Braces vs Invisalign Clear Aligners
When comparing orthodontic treatment options, patients often ask us whether Invisalign braces or clear aligners are faster than lingual braces. Invisalign clear aligners are a modern alternative, particularly because they are removable and nearly invisible to your friends and family. They typically work best for mild to moderate misalignment, and treatment times usually range from 12 to 18 months. Again, this treatment length will depend on your unique situation and the challenges you are currently facing with your smile.
Lingual braces can be more effective for complex issues that clear aligners may struggle to address. While Invisalign offers convenience and comfort, lingual braces deliver great results in cases where more advanced tooth movement is required. The decision between the two depends largely on the complexity of the dental issue and your lifestyle, and our team will be more than happy to discuss with you which option we think will be best for your end goals.
While treatment time for lingual braces may take between one and three years, this investment is rewarded with a healthier and straighter smile that can last a lifetime. Are you looking for more information about braces and teeth straightening? Contact our team today to discuss the various options on offer to you and how we can support you in this journey.