Incognito Lingual Braces

Fixed braces are generally designed to fit onto the outer surfaces of teeth, but Incognito braces are different as they are lingual. The term lingual means next to the tongue, so these braces fit onto the inner surfaces of your teeth, nearest to your tongue.

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What are Incognito Lingual Braces?

Incognito braces are discreet and virtually invisible as they are hidden from view. The braces are custom-made to fit the inner surfaces of your teeth precisely, following all the unique contours of these teeth.

Incognito braces work similarly to traditional braces, placing specific teeth under pressure so they move into the proper positions.

“ I like everything about this office. The doctor is amazing and the staff is helpful and sweet: Michelle called my daughter Erika (who was nervous about braces) and calmed her nerves. Now she’s actually excited to come in! This experience is priceless- ill always recommend Envy Smile “

Invisalign Patient

Diana Shakhnazarov Invisalign Patient

What are the Components of Incognito Braces?

Incognito braces have thin gold brackets powered by archwires.

The gold brace brackets are low-profile, fitting around the back of each tooth precisely. Consequently, they feel more comfortable and are less likely to interfere with your speech or feel too big, bulky, and unnatural in the mouth.

Each brace bracket is highly polished, so there is less chance of any rough edges rubbing your tongue. Every archwire is custom-created to fit securely into the brackets.

Which Conditions Can Be Treated with Incognito Braces?

Incognito braces can treat most conditions, including mild or complex ones. They work extremely well for teeth that are incorrectly spaced and don’t bite together properly. Incognito braces can also be used to correct problems with overcrowded teeth.

You may wish to investigate Incognito braces if you have previously received orthodontic treatment but have seen your teeth move over time. Incognito produces a ‘lite’ system that is ideal for this purpose, focusing on only straightening the front teeth. It can re-straighten teeth quickly and discreetly.

Are There Any Conditions That Are Less Suitable for Incognito Braces?

Yes, as lingual braces cannot treat every condition as effectively as traditional braces fitted on the outer surfaces of your teeth. For example, if you have a very deep overbite, it may be tricky to fit Incognito braces properly, even though the brackets are very thin. There is a risk that the brackets could pop off your teeth more frequently or that they will feel less comfortable.

A consultation with our orthodontist will soon determine if Incognito braces could help you. Otherwise, we will recommend an alternative system for better treatment outcomes.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Incognito Lingual Braces?

Like all braces systems, Incognito braces have some advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

  • Incognito braces are very discreet since the brackets are virtually invisible.
  • They can correct most common orthodontic problems.
  • Because the brace brackets are custom-made to fit each of your teeth individually, treatment can feel more comfortable.
  • The custom fit of brackets helps maximize the efficacy of treatment.

Disadvantages

  • Incognito braces can be more expensive than other braces since the brackets must be custom-made.
  • They may cause some discomfort, especially initially, if your tongue starts to play with the brackets, which could cause soreness.
  • You may develop a lisp, but this should be temporary and will disappear once you become accustomed to the brackets. Many braces systems will initially interfere with your speech until you become accustomed to them.

Treatment Process for Incognito Braces

The treatment process for Incognito braces uses the latest technologies outlined below.

Initial Consultation

An initial consultation is required before we can recommend any braces treatment for you. Our orthodontist can examine your mouth, check how your teeth bite together, and assess if incognito braces suit your needs.

Digital Diagnostics

The next stage is to digitally scan your teeth using a small handheld scanner. The scan takes thousands of images that are stitched together to create a digital 3-D model of your mouth.

The digital model allows us to create your custom treatment plan so the brackets and wires can be custom-made. The brackets and wires are made using CADCAM and 3-D printing technology. Robotics is used to create custom wires to fit your mouth exactly. Using these technologies ensures every component is precision-made to suit your treatment needs exactly.

Fitting Your Brace

Once the components are ready, you return to our dental office so we can fit your brace brackets onto the inner surfaces of your teeth. Bonding them onto your teeth is entirely painless, and once they are all in place, we attach the wire.

Living with Your Incognito Braces

It can take a little while to get used to your braces. Here’s what you can expect during the first few days after they are fitted.

Minor Discomfort

Some discomfort is inevitable when you first begin orthodontic treatment, no matter the system used. As your teeth move, you may find they ache slightly. Symptoms can usually be relieved with over-the-counter medication.

Your tongue may become sore because the braces are right beside it. However, Incognito brace brackets are smaller and smoother than other lingual brackets, so they should feel more comfortable.

If your tongue starts to feel sore, use a little dental wax on the metal brackets behind your teeth. The wax will help create a smooth barrier so your tongue feels more comfortable.

Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene with incognito braces may be a little more challenging because it’s difficult to see the braces clearly. However, provided you use the right tools, maintaining good oral care should be straightforward. Here are some tips to follow.

  • Brush after every meal. You should still brush in the morning and at night but get into the habit of brushing your teeth after every meal or snack. Frequent brushing will reduce the buildup of plaque and food debris from around your brackets and wires.
  • Floss at least once a day. Ensure you floss your teeth at least once a day or more often, if possible. Use interdental brushes or a WaterPik to clean around the brackets and wires more thoroughly.
  • Use antimicrobial mouthwash. Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine can be useful. It can help wash away food particles and plaque, helping to fight bacteria.

Foods to Eat and Those to Avoid with Lingual Braces

Food recommendations for lingual braces are the same as for any fixed braces.

When you have your Incognito braces fitted, it can be helpful to stick to softer foods for the first few days until your teeth settle down. Opt for foods like yogurt, scrambled or soft-boiled eggs, and rice. Once your teeth have settled, you must change your dietary habits.

Wearing fixed braces like Incognito means there are more places where dental plaque and food debris can become trapped. This can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Also, certain foods may damage your brace brackets and wires. Foods that should be avoided include:

  • Sticky caramel, taffy, and chewing gum. These foods can all become trapped around your brackets and wires and are tricky to remove.
  • Popcorn, nuts, and seeds. These foods can become stuck between teeth and braces or break or damage brackets and wires.
  • Crunchy fruits and vegetables. Although healthy, these foods can be difficult to chew and may place stress on your braces, potentially damaging them. If you want these foods, try cutting them into small pieces and chewing them with your back teeth only.

Adjustments and Monitoring

You will need to return to our dental office periodically so we can monitor your progress. If necessary, we can adjust your Incognito braces treatment plan to ensure your teeth continue moving into the proper positions.

Once you complete treatment, you will need to wear a retainer that can be a wire fitted on the inner surfaces of your teeth so it is virtually invisible, just like your Incognito braces.

Are Incognito Braces Right for You?

Incognito braces can be a great treatment option in certain circumstances. Treatment is discreet and effective, and the brace is more comfortable than other lingual braces since they are custom-made for your teeth. Even the wire is specially shaped for your mouth only, which can help make treatment more effective and faster.

Schedule your consultation with our orthodontist to find out if Incognito braces are the right solution to straighten your smile.