For those who want a completely discreet solution, hidden braces—also known as lingual braces—are applied behind the teeth. VIP Smiles Orthodontics in Jackson offers this advanced option for patients seeking a virtually invisible treatment. Contact us at (601) 321-9216 to schedule a lingual braces consultation.
What Patients Should Know About Getting Hidden Braces
Hidden braces, also called lingual braces, are a popular orthodontic option for people who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional braces that attach to the front of your teeth, hidden braces are fixed to the back surfaces. This makes them almost invisible when you smile or talk.
If you are in Jackson and considering hidden braces, it helps to know what to expect during the installation process.
Initial Consultation And Evaluation
Before any braces are installed, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough evaluation. This visit includes an examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment. The orthodontist will take digital scans, X-rays, and photos to get a detailed picture of your mouth.
This information is used to design your customized hidden braces. Because lingual braces attach to the back of your teeth, their design must match the exact shape of your teeth surfaces. This often requires advanced 3D imaging technology.
Your orthodontist will also discuss your goals, treatment timeline, and whether hidden braces are the best fit for your needs. Not everyone is a candidate for lingual braces, so this consultation helps set the right expectations.
Custom Fabrication Of Braces
Once your orthodontist has collected all the necessary data, the hidden braces will be custom-made in a dental lab. Each bracket is carefully designed to fit the unique contours of the back of your teeth. The wires are also pre-shaped to gently move your teeth according to the treatment plan.
This custom approach is what makes hidden braces different from standard braces that come in pre-made sizes. The lab process can take a few weeks before your braces are ready for installation.
Preparing For The Installation Appointment
On the day of your appointment to get hidden braces installed, your orthodontist will prepare your teeth for the brackets. This involves cleaning and drying the surfaces on the backs of your teeth thoroughly. The dentist may also use a cheek retractor to keep your mouth open and dry during the process.
You will likely be awake during the procedure, and it is generally painless, though it can take a couple of hours depending on how many teeth are being treated.
Bonding The Brackets To Your Teeth
The orthodontist will apply a special dental adhesive to attach each bracket to the back of your teeth. They will carefully position each one to ensure proper placement for effective movement.
Once the brackets are in place, a curing light is used to harden the adhesive quickly. This step secures the brackets firmly.
Attaching The Archwire
After the brackets are bonded, the orthodontist will thread an archwire through them. This wire is what applies gentle pressure to guide your teeth into alignment over time.
The wire is secured with tiny ligatures or clips, depending on the bracket design.
Because lingual braces are on the back of your teeth, the orthodontist may take extra care to ensure the wire is comfortable and properly positioned.
Adjusting To The Feel Of Hidden Braces
Right after installation, it is common to feel some discomfort or soreness in your tongue and mouth. The brackets and wires are new, and your tongue may take time to adjust to their presence on the inner surfaces of your teeth.
You may experience some irritation or slight cuts initially. Your orthodontist may provide orthodontic wax you can apply to the brackets to reduce rubbing and soreness.
Eating and speaking may feel unusual for a few days as you get used to the braces.
Follow-Up Visits And Adjustments
Hidden braces require regular follow-up appointments, usually every 6 to 8 weeks. During these visits, your orthodontist will check your progress, tighten or replace wires, and make any necessary adjustments.
Because lingual braces are less accessible than traditional braces, these visits are important to ensure your treatment stays on track.
Caring For Hidden Braces At Home
Proper oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces, especially hidden ones. Food can easily get trapped around the brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum problems.
You will need to brush carefully along the back surfaces of your teeth, floss regularly, and possibly use special cleaning tools like interdental brushes or water flossers.
Your orthodontist will give you detailed instructions on how to maintain your braces and keep your mouth healthy throughout treatment.
Common Concerns
Many patients worry about the pain or difficulty during installation. While the procedure can be lengthy, it is typically painless. Discomfort mainly occurs afterward as your mouth adjusts.
Speech changes are also common in the first few days. You may notice a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. This usually improves quickly with practice.
Some people also ask if hidden braces take longer to install than traditional braces. The custom fitting and careful bonding process can add time, but this ensures the best fit and effectiveness.
Benefits That Make The Installation Worth It
Despite the initial adjustment period, many patients find hidden braces worth the effort. The key advantage is their invisibility. You can straighten your teeth without drawing attention to your orthodontic treatment.
For adults and professionals in Jackson who want to maintain a natural appearance, hidden braces are an excellent option.
They also offer the full effectiveness of metal braces, which can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues.
Getting hidden braces installed is a detailed process that involves custom design and careful placement. While the procedure takes time and may cause some temporary discomfort, it is generally straightforward and safe.
Hidden/Lingual Braces: Invisible, Effective Treatment
With hidden/lingual braces, you can straighten your teeth discreetly, with the brackets placed behind your teeth. VIP Smiles Orthodontics in Jackson offers this advanced solution for patients who want truly invisible treatment. Call (601) 321-9216 to book your consultation today.