Invisible Braces – What Does It Really Mean?

Posted on: 19 October 2015

"Invisible braces'' is a term that is used to refer to a range of dental teeth brace treatments. These braces also go by the name Invisalign. They are a popular choice of teeth braces because they provide users with the luxury of using them without being noticed. Moreover, they are easier to wear compared to other types.

Lingual Braces

Another type of dental braces covered by the common use of the term invisible braces is Lingual Braces. Lingual is a technical term that refers to the tongue. Lingual braces are clear braces fixed on the inside surface of teeth that point towards the tongue. The term invisible, in invisible braces, is derived from the fact that the dentist places the braces in such a way that they cannot be easily spotted. This is done by either placing the brace on the teeth palate or on the tongue.

A.L.Fs

When orthopaedic dentist instruments are applied, they are commonly referred to as invisible braces. Many of these appliances are invisible. Alternative Light Wire-Functionals, or A.L.Fs, are typical examples of such appliances. Alternative Light Wire-Functionals are applied for jaw expansion and subsequent skeletal system balancing. These, normally, cannot be easily spotted owing to their positioning in the mouth. They are placed on the side of the tongue in the case of lower arches and on the palate when used for upper arches. Normally, fixed braces are also applied immediately or later and are used with the A.L.Fs.

Advantages of Invisible Teeth Braces

  1. Better looks:  Since they cannot be noticed easily, the shape and natural appearance of the mouth is maintained.
  2. Convenient: They can be removed by the wearer whenever they wish to do so.
  3. Safe: They do not damage teeth or gums.
  4. Shorter treatment duration: They take between one to one and a half years.
  5. Predictable outcome: The program is computerized. Thus, the patient knows what is to come.

Disadvantages of Invisible Braces

Generally, invisible braces cost more than the fixed bracket types. They require a lot more precision procedures. For instance, a range of transparent plastic trays is fabricated so as to move teeth one bit at a time. Consequently, the procedure requires that the dentist takes several impressions as they proceed with the application of the braces. All these activities and multiple delicate procedures amount to a higher cost of administering the procedure. Cost is usually pegged on the duration a procedure is carried out successfully and the range of requisite treatments. Invisible braces take a lot more time to move teeth; as compared to fixed brace applications.

In recent day, invisible braces have been used for aesthetic purposes too. People with dental problems that require bracing, often, ask for invisible braces as a stylish alternative to fixed braces.

For more information, talk with a dentist or orthodontist, like those at Perfect Smiles Orthodontics.

Share