Why Are My Teeth Getting Darker Over Time?
A bright, youthful smile inspires confidence. A dull, lackluster one? Not so much. Read on to learn why teeth get darker as you age.
Who Needs Lingual Braces?
These days, you have more choices than ever when you need to straighten your teeth, and we offer them all here at Duval Orthodontics.
Today, Dr. J.A. Duval and our team are taking a closer look at a lesser-known treatment called lingual braces.
Which orthodontic treatment is best?
All the treatment options work well on a wide range of malocclusion problems, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Underbite and overbite
- Gaps
- Jaw misalignment
However, extreme misalignment problems, such as a severe overbite or underbite, may benefit from the rigid structure of traditional braces.
With the exception of a few complicated cases, most types of orthodontic treatments work equally well, so the choice is yours.
What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces are traditional metal braces that we attach to the backside (the tongue side) of your teeth. This makes them virtually invisible.
You still have the same brackets and wires that come with traditional braces, but you escape the look of a metallic smile.
Although all orthodontic treatments generate some slight discomfort as they shift your teeth in the right direction, lingual braces tend to cause the highest level of discomfort — at least at first. After the initial adjustment, the sensation subsides and is more in line with other treatments.
Also, the hardware attached to the back of your teeth may interfere with certain sounds you make when you speak. It may take a few months of practice before you can overcome the lisp caused when your tongue touches the backside of your teeth.
Good candidates for lingual braces
Lingual braces are a good option for anyone who needs braces but wants to hide them. So, whether you’re a self-conscious teen or an adult who wants to keep your appearance professional and attractive, lingual braces offer the advantage of invisibility.
Studies show that lingual braces are just as effective as traditional braces and achieve the same desired results.
Bad candidates for lingual braces
The only condition that’s not well-suited for lingual braces is a deep overbite. In this case, the pressure on the lingual brackets may become too intense and cause the braces to detach from the teeth.
Pros and cons of lingual braces
As with all orthodontic treatments, lingual braces come with some pros and cons that you’ll have to consider before you make a choice.
Pros of lingual braces
- You can’t see them
- They’re customizable
- They fix almost every type of bite problem
Cons of lingual braces
- You may develop a temporary lisp
- Your treatment may last longer
- More uncomfortable than traditional braces at first
- More expensive
It comes down to personal preference. Call our office for an appointment at one of our two convenient locations in Albany and Warner Robins, Georgia. You can also book an appointment with Dr. Duval using our online scheduling tool.
You Might Also Enjoy...
When is the Right Time For My Child’s First Orthodontic Evaluation?
Timing is everything with raising children. Knowing when to bring your child to an orthodontist can be confusing. Read on to learn when and why an early evaluation is essential.
How to Help Your Child Kick Bad Orthodontic Habits
Bad habits can be hard to break. When getting orthodontic treatment for the smile you always dream about, breaking those habits can pay off. Read on.
Spotting the Warning Signs of a Bite Problem In Your Child
Bite issues are common, but how do you know if your child has a bad bite, and more importantly, when should you make the orthodontist aware of the problem? Read on to learn more.
Your Teen's Life After Braces
There’s nothing like the day your teen’s braces come off. The excitement of getting that perfect smile can’t be understated. But is that really where the story ends? Read on.
When Is a Gapped Tooth a Problem?
Gaps or spaces in between teeth can ruin what would otherwise be an attractive smile. But aside from aesthetics is a gapped tooth a problem? Read on to learn more.