eBrace is a type of lingual brace – a fixed brace that fits to the lingual or buccal (tongue side) of your teeth. They are arguably the most discreet way to straighten crooked teeth because the entire brace is hidden, making it virtually undetectable to anyone other than your orthodontist or dentist.

 

Lingual braces have actually been around since the 1970s, but early versions were relatively cumbersome and less effective than their traditional counterparts.

 

Recently, though, their popularity has soared thanks to a growing demand for ‘invisible’ braces. This has led to more time and money being invested into the development of lingual braces and they’re now more capable and comfortable than ever before – giving train tracks and clear aligners a run for their money.

 

How do lingual braces straighten teeth?

Lingual braces work just like train-track braces. Small metal brackets are bonded to each tooth and then connected using a thin wire, which is attached using elastic bands, metal ligatures or small clips. It’s this wire that straightens your smile, by applying a gentle force to your brackets and in turn your teeth. Sometimes elastic bands or springs might be used to help achieve certain movements or a greater force.

 

As your teeth move, your soft tissues and jawbone remodel to support them in their new position. It will take months for everything to stabilise, which is why it’s so important to wear your retainers without fail just after your brace has been removed. Even once the bone has settled, there are still ligaments that will have been stretched during your treatment, which will always have a tendency to pull your teeth back to their start position.

 

Are lingual braces right for you?

Lingual braces are suitable for all ages – there’s no age limit for treatment. They are also great at treating most types of orthodontic problems, from mild crowding of the front teeth to teeth that don’t bite together properly.

 

Problems that can be treated with lingual braces:

 

Crowded or crooked teeth

Teeth that are widely spaced

Teeth that overlap

Rotated teeth

Teeth that are tipped

Teeth that don’t bite together properly

Teeth that protrude

To find out if lingual braces are suitable for you, contact your local eBrace provider for a consultation.

 

The advantages of lingual braces

Lingual braces keep improving and have been developed with patients in mind. This means they offer many benefits:

 

Lingual braces are practically invisible and they are the only ‘invisible’ brace that’s completely hidden behind your teeth.

The latest lingual braces, including eBrace, are custom-made to fit your teeth, ensuring maximum control and great results.

Custom-made braces allow you to visualise your results before your brace is even made, using a digital model of your teeth.

If you’re unlucky enough to stain your teeth around your brackets the results will be hidden behind your teeth when your braces come off.

Lingual braces are suitable for all ages.

They can treat a wide range of orthodontic problems.

They don’t need to be removed for eating and drinking.

Gold lingual braces are a great option for anyone with a nickel allergy.

Like most things lingual braces also have their disadvantages, and it’s only fair to mention these too. Because they’re fitted behind your teeth they can irritate your tongue and may cause you to develop a slight lisp for the first few days.

 

They can also be more expensive than other braces, particularly if you’re choosing a custom-made option in a more expensive material, such as gold.

 

All in all, though, they’re a great option if you’re looking for a truly hidden brace.