When searching for the best options for straightening your teeth, both lingual braces and Invisalign offer treatment with minimal visibility. Here we break down the differences between the two treatments to help you decide which is best for you.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a teeth straightening system that uses a series of clear plastic removable aligner trays that are worn over the teeth to gradually shift and straighten teeth. The trays are switched every two to three weeks and must be removed to eat or drink. Because the trays are made of clear plastic, they are practically invisible when worn.
What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces are just like traditional braces, but they are attached to the inside or lingual side of the tooth, rather than the front. Lingual braces can treat a variety of dental issues and are also invisible when eating, smiling or talking.
Ease of Use
Once attached, lingual braces require very little adjustment from your dentist or orthodontist. You may need an appointment every four to six weeks or visit my website to make sure your treatment is progressing well. Lingual braces can also be customized by your dentist f or maximum comfort.
With Invisalign, you will receive a new aligner tray every two to three weeks. These should be worn for at least 22 out of every 24 hours, including when you sleep. You will also need to remove the trays whenever you eat or drink anything and you will need to clean your teeth before inserting them back in.
Discomfort
Some patients find lingual braces quite uncomfortable. Early on the braces inside your teeth can cause irritation on your tongue and lead to changes in speech such as a lisp. Ofen with a few adjustment your orthodontist can help minimize this irritation and your mouth will get used to the new treatment. Invisalign aligners use small adjustments to gradually shift your teeth over time. There can be some discomfort when wearing new aligner trays, but this often goes away quite quickly.
Cleaning
It is very easy to clean your teeth with Invisalign. You simply remove the aligner trays and brush and floss like normal. It is very important to clean your teeth everytime you eat or drink anything to avoid trapped food particles that can cause tooth decay.
Cleaning lingual braces can a bit more difficult, but no more difficult than cleaning your teeth with traditional braces. Dr. Mark Rhody Dentistry recommends using a small headed toothbrush to fit behind your teeth and using a water pik or threaded floss to help get between your brackets and teeth.
Length of Treatment
For invisalign, treatment tends to take longer than for lingual braces, but this also depends on how often you remove your alignment trays during your treatment.
Generally, lingual braces can treat the same dental issues that traditional braces can, with the exception of severe overbite that may put too much pressure on the brackets. Invisalign is best for mild tooth straightening and alignment issues and cannot fix more complex dental issues.
Cost
Comparing the cost of Invisalign and lingual braces will depend on many factors, including the length of your treatment, insurance coverage, and what appliances you choose. Not all dentists or orthodontists are qualified for lingual braces, so it is best to check with your dentist or visit our website to find a dentist able to help.
In Ontario, the average cost of treatment are:
- traditional braces – between $3000-7000
- lingual braces – $8000 – 10,000 depending on the treatment required
- Invisalign aligners – $4000 – 7400