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Heart Health: Don't Neglect Dental Care

Heart disease runs in my family, and I have been determined my entire life to not become a statistic. I eat well, and I exercise every day. I also visit my general practitioner every year for a full health check-up. One day, when discussing my family history of heart disease, my doctor asked me how often I visited the dentist. This was not a question I expected. I told her that I hadn't been to one in a while. She told me that a large part of keeping my heart in good shape was keeping my teeth healthy, and that I should start going to the dentist every 6-months. I researched online and found out how right she was! Now, I never skip a dental check-up. I created this blog to help others with heart problems in their families realize how important dental care is for them.

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Heart Health: Don't Neglect Dental Care

The Pros And Cons Of Lingual Braces

1 September 2017
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Lingual braces, or braces that are worn behind the teeth, are becoming more popular with teenagers and adults. If you or your child are looking to improve your smile, but do not want noticeable braces on your teeth, you may be considering this type of braces. Learning the pros and cons can help you determine if they are ideal in your situation. Here are a couple of the pros and cons of lingual braces. 

The Cons of Lingual Braces

  • They Are More Expensive

One of the biggest disadvantage to lingual braces is the cost. These braces are more expensive than traditional front bracket braces. The braces are custom made to fit on the back of the teeth using a mold of the mouth. Because they are custom made, they simply cost more. If cost is a primary factor in your decision as to what type of braces to get, this may not be the ideal choice for you. 

  • They Are Harder to Maintain

The other con to lingual braces is that they are harder to maintain. Because they are on the back of the teeth, it takes a bit longer to tighten them and maintain them. It is also a bit more challenging to brush your teeth around them and for the dentist to professionally clean your teeth around the braces. 

The Pros of Lingual Braces

  • You Can't Tell the Braces Are in Place

The biggest advantage to lingual braces is that you can't tell that braces are being worn. While there are other invisible products that help to straight your teeth, like Invisalign, these products can't be used if you have large gaps or severely crooked teeth. Most people can wear lingual braces, regardless of their tooth alignment. This makes it a great choice for those who don't want people to see their braces, yet who may not be a candidate for other products. 

  • Discoloration is Hidden

The other benefit to lingual braces is that any discoloration caused by braces is hidden. Braces can sometimes cause discoloration of the teeth. This can lead to stains that in some people, may be permanent. Hiding the braces behind the teeth helps to ensure that if any discoloration occurs, that discoloration is hidden. 

If you are thinking about getting lingual braces, consult with a cosmetic dentist or an orthodontist today, such as Clendenon Kirby DDS. They can help you determine if these are the best option for you or if there are better options based on your budget, current tooth alignment and desired results.