1) How does lingual braces attached to my teeth differently than Invisalign?
Lingual braces are attached behind your teeth but Invisalign or clear aligners are removable appliances. In general, orthodontists use fixed or removable appliances for straightening the teeth. Conventionally, orthodontic treatment was mostly done by metal braces. Over the last 30 years more options like clear aligners or lingual braces are available in addition to traditional braces.
2) Does lingual braces hurt more than Invisalign?
When you start an orthodontic treatment, you will experience soreness on your gum, cheeks and teeth. This temporary discomfort comes from two factors. One, getting used to the orthodontic appliances (invisalign, lingual braces, or metal brackets braces). Second, moving teeth in to a straighter teeth
3) Does Invisalign move my teeth better than lingual braces?
The efficiency in moving teeth with plastic aligners also referred as invisalign braces or lingual braces depends on the complexity of the movement. Overall lingual custom appliances are more efficient in moving roots in the bone. It doesn’t mean that you cannot move the roots with set of aligners, it just takes longer. Invisalign aligners are very efficient in minor rotational movements. At PORTH we have special active retainers to take care of these movements.
Lingual braces are efficient for certain treatment plans. For example patients with deep overbite can significantly benefits from lingual braces type of treatment compared to clear aligners. The position of braces on the back of the teeth compared to the front of the teeth create better forces to move the teeth in patients with deep overbite.
4) Are lingual braces more expensive than Invisalign?
Lingual braces cost is more than invisalign or clear aligners. Lingual orthodontics is a technique which a small group of orthodontists offer. The appointments are slightly longer and a specially trained team member has to work with the orthodontist to render the care. Additionally, the lingual braces cost like incognito or similar orthodontic appliances cost more. Treatment time and complexity are the main
5) Are lingual braces faster than Invisalign? Does Invisalign work better than lingual braces?
Treatment time in orthodontics depends on the complexity of the care. Different orthodontic appliances are efficient in different things. Lingual braces are overall more efficient in moving roots compare to Invisalign. They are also more effective in closing spaces for patients with very crooked teeth that warrens removal of their teeth. It is hard to say which one of these braces treatment is faster. The orthodontic treatment time ties to the treatment goals and complexity of the problems.
Here are a few other questions that patients at PORTH like to know before picking lingual braces or clear aligners.
PORTH patients discussing pros and cons of Invisalign and lingual braces
Is flossing easier with clear aligners compared to lingual braces?
Clear aligners or Invisalign have to be removed before brushing and flossing. It is easier to use a toothbrush and floss between your teeth with aligners. We provide special home care tools to our patients for maintaining a good oral hygiene with lingual braces.
Do lingual braces cause more lisp compared to invisalign aligners?
Patient with both invisalign or lingual braces can experience transitional lisp when start the orthodontic care. Removable aligners give an option to patients to remove the aligners if they need to. This can also make the adaptation of muscle which often the root of the issue slower.
Do ceramic braces work the same as lingual braces?
Ceramic braces are one of the alternative treatment options compared to traditional metal braces. Ceramic braces is a good option for self-conscious patients yet it is not a true invisible option where braces are on the back of the teeth on the tongue side.
What are the type of braces that are glued on the back of the teeth?
There are two different types of lingual braces: custom personalized lingual braces and wires and the stock version. The custom lingual braces are built using CAD-CAM technology incognito braces are one of these. InBrace is one type of braces where the wire is design by robots but the metal brackets behind the teeth are the same for all patients.
What is a hybrid lingual treatment?
Beside offering lingual braces as a treatment option. We provide orthodontic treatment with a combination of appliances at the same type. We refer to this a hybrid treatment plan. Some patients would choose lingual braces with PORTH clear aligners to maximize all the benefits of both orthodontic appliances.
Lingual Braces at PORTH
Our two clinics, located in Bellevue and Sammamish, offer lingual braces. Lingual braces may not be available near you, as only a limited number of orthodontists in the greater Seattle area offer this option. Dr. Rooz has successfully treated many patients, including both teens and adults, with lingual braces. You can ask any questions you have about lingual braces during your complimentary consultation.