Sublingual braces are a unique type of braces that many people don't know anything about, but they can give you the benefit of looking like you're not wearing braces at all while still straightening your teeth. But what sets these type of braces apart from other types of braces like invisible braces? Here's what you need to know.
What Are Sublingual Braces?
Sublingual braces, as the name indicates, are braces that are mounted on the back of your teeth instead of the front. Otherwise, they're nearly identical to traditional braces. Thankfully, since they are mounted on the back of your teeth, nobody will be able to see them when you eat and smile.
They're made out of metal and have wires threaded between the brackets in order to help push and pull the teeth into the right position.
How Do They Work?
Sublingual braces work just like traditional braces do. Your orthodontist, during your check-ups, will take a look at your teeth and will tighten or loosen the wires accordingly to help nudge your teeth in the right direction. This can be done individually with each tooth just like with standard braces. Overall, if you've ever had traditional braces in the past, you can expect a similar experience with sublingual braces.
What Can You Expect?
Getting sublingual braces is a pretty easy process. You'll go in to see an orthodontist and talk about what it is that you hope to achieve. They'll take a look at your teeth and will get a general idea of whether you qualify for sublingual braces. The good news is, while many people can't get invisible braces because their teeth are too crooked or they have an underbite or overbite, most people will qualify for sublingual braces since they have all the straightening power of traditional braces.
After taking some scans and molds of your teeth, the process can get started. Your orthodontist will mount the small brackets on the back of your teeth. This won't hurt at all, as it's only done with dental cement. Then the wires are threaded through the brackets. Your orthodontist will tighten them and start the process of moving your teeth around so that they have more space between them. That's it! You have brand new braces and no one will be the wiser.
Sublingual braces offer all the straightening power of traditional braces and the additional benefit of subtlety. If you're interested in braces but haven't qualified for invisible ones in the past, it's time to ask about sublingual braces. For more information, talk to your orthodontist.