Invisible Orthodontics
Invisible orthodontics is orthodontic treatment that is discreet. For many people, especially adults, seeking orthodontic treatment may not appeal to them because they might feel self-conscious about wearing braces.
For this reason, we offer a more aesthetic alternative to traditional braces without the potential aesthetic drawbacks of treatment.
Treatment is tailored to suit your lifestyle, and the type of bite problem that needs to be corrected, to ensure the best possible result.
We offer some of the latest orthodontic treatments including Clear aligners, such as Invisalign and SureSmile or Lingual (hidden behind the teeth) braces, which offer the highest degree of discreetness.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign or SureSmile Aligners are a clear alternative to braces that can help you achieve a straighter smile.
They are series of clear, custom-made aligner trays that are designed to gradually move your teeth into their desired position.
Clear aligners are almost invisible, comfortable to wear and are a great option for anyone who wants to correct their teeth with the comfort of easy to remove aligners with no wires and bracket and without any food restrictions or oral hygiene hurdles.
They do, however, require a high degree of patient compliance, so they are a great option for adults and responsible teens who are committed to putting in their part of the work for their orthodontic treatment.
Aligners must be worn around 22 hours a day in order to be effective. However, they are easily removed for eating, brushing, flossing, or for a special occasion.
Our orthodontist is very experienced at using aligner technology and we understand the appliance capabilities and limitations very well. We tailor the treatment to ensure we get the results you want.
Lingual (behind the teeth) braces offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces. The brackets are placed on the inside surface of the teeth, so the braces are completely invisible.
With the latest 3D German technology, lingual braces are custom designed and manufactured to fit the unique shape of each patient's teeth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit.
This level of customisation makes WIN appliances and Incognito the smallest and lowest profile lingual braces available to date.
Despite being located on the inside surface of the teeth, lingual braces require the same care and maintenance as traditional braces.
Patients must be diligent about brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding hard and sticky foods that could damage the braces.
Regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments and monitoring of progress are also necessary.
Dr Nour Tarraf and his team is Sydney’s leading providers of lingual braces, and we pride ourselves in being one of the few practices in Australia that offer invisible treatment to correct any orthodontic problem.
Lingual braces are an excellent option for teens who play contact sports or wind instruments, as they are attached to the back of the teeth, which reduces the risk of injury or discomfort to the lips or cheeks that can occur with traditional braces.
Here are the benefits of lingual braces for teens
- Play music uninterrupted. If your child plays a wind instrument they may want to opt for lingual braces as they do not hinder their musical performance as much compared to traditional braces.
Lingual braces are placed on the inside surface or the back surface of the teeth. There are no sharp braces or wires to impinge on the lips and cheeks. Learn about lingual braces and musical instruments.
- Better hygiene for the patient. Studies show 30%-70% of teens have irreversible damage on the front surface of their teeth from poor oral hygiene.
Lingual braces are closer to the salivary glands and with a constant salivary flow providing a diluting and washing effect. In addition, the tongue can play a role in the cleaning process. - Contact sports and traditional braces can have a higher risk of trauma to the mouth. Lingual braces have a distinct advantage when it comes to contact sports. With conventional braces kids are still advised to wear a mouthguard even with sports that do not require one like soccer and basketball.
A slight hit to the lips can result in significant cut to the lips. These injuries are significantly reduced with lingual braces.
- Invisible option. Lingual braces are the most aesthetic treatment option out there at this stage. The appliances are completely hidden while offering the same reliability of conventional braces.
This a great advantage to those teenagers who are image conscious and those who engage regularly in performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will treatment take longer?
No. With the new customised lingual braces and experienced orthodontists, treatment times are often equivalent to those with conventional braces or sometimes even faster.
This is because the precision of the custom-made braces can achieve the desired tooth movement more efficiently and effectively.
However, it is still important to note that treatment times can vary depending on the severity of the dental issues being addressed and the individual patient's response to treatment.
Are lingual more uncomfortable than regular braces?
No. Both traditional braces and lingual braces may require an adaptation period and can cause some mild discomfort or rubbing against the cheeks, lips, or tongue.
Speech can often be affected as well for the first few weeks in treatment, but as the tongue accommodates to the braces, it will adjust, and any lisping will resolve.
However, lingual braces are custom made to fit the surface of the teeth, making them smoother and smaller. It is important for patients to follow the orthodontist's instructions and use orthodontic wax or other remedies to alleviate any discomfort during the adaptation period.
With proper care and maintenance, patients can adjust to lingual braces and enjoy the benefits of a discreet and effective orthodontic treatment.
Are the results as good as regular braces?
There should be no difference in the quality of the results that can be achieved with lingual braces as opposed to conventional outside braces.
Both types of braces can achieve the same outcomes in terms of improving the alignment, function, and aesthetics of the teeth. The difference lies in the method of treatment delivery, as lingual braces are placed on the inside surface of the teeth while conventional braces are placed on the outside surface.
It is important to note that the success of the treatment depends not only on the type of braces used but also on the skill and experience of the orthodontist and the patient's commitment to following the treatment plan and maintaining good oral hygiene.