Braces are a fact of life for many people who want a beautiful smile. Fortunately, today’s braces offer you plenty of options. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there is a solution that will work best for you!
If you’re considering getting braces, be sure to ask your local Lasalle dentist to talk to you about the differences between lingual and traditional dental braces.
Here’s a quick rundown:
What’s the Difference Between Traditional and Lingual Braces?
Traditional braces place brackets and wires on the front of the teeth; these are the braces you’re probably thinking about as soon as you think of the word “braces”.
Lingual braces do the same job, but they work from the other side. If you opt for this form, your dentist will place brackets on the backside of your teeth.
Each set of braces is intended to produce the same incredible smile when the day is done, but the process of getting there will be a little different, depending on the route you choose to take.
Do Traditional or Lingual Braces Affect Speech?
This is a question our LaSalle dental office hears frequently. The short answer is—yes, your speech may be affected by either form of braces, but you’ll likely adjust to them in a few weeks.
While speech problems can occur with traditional braces, the change is usually more noticeable in patients who opt for lingual braces. Most of our patients don’t even notice a difference after a month or so, no matter which option they choose.
Do Traditional Braces Cost Less Than Lingual Braces?
If you choose traditional braces, your dentist or orthodontist has fewer obstacles when applying or maintaining your brackets because they’re placed on the front of the teeth. This usually translates to a lower cost overall.
Since lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, the process can be a bit more difficult in terms of application and upkeep, which can make this option more expensive in the long run.
Is Maintenance Different Between Traditional and Lingual Braces?
Maintenance isn’t different, per se. No matter which option you choose, you’ll still need to brush and floss regularly to ensure your braces aren’t holding onto materials that can diminish your enamel. With that said, it’s usually much easier to keep traditional braces clean because they’re easily accessible. Since lingual braces are hidden from plain sight, they offer challenges in terms of cleaning and regular care.
Are you considering getting braces? Dre Nathalie Kadoch has been helping residents all over Lachine, Canada build beautiful smiles for many years. If you’re ready to get excited about smiling, contact Centre Dentaire today! We’re proud to service patients in Verdun, LaSalle, and surrounding areas, as well.