In this new generation of orthodontic appliances for teens and adults, there are many orthodontic treatment options from which to choose. One relatively new method that has generated excitement among orthodontic patients is Incognito™.
Incognito™ — Traditional Braces with a New Twist
Incognito™ is a type of an orthodontic bracket system, commonly known as lingual braces. Sometimes referred to as “inside braces,” lingual braces are placed behind the teeth rather than in front, making the treatment completely invisible.
Traditional braces are placed on the outside of the teeth, making them highly visible. Lingual braces perform the same overall function as traditional braces, by applying slow, constant pressure over time, which causes the teeth to move into their desired position—only they can't be seen.
And like traditional braces, Incognito uses a wire and bracket system to apply force to move the teeth. However, with Incognito™, no one will know you are wearing braces unless you tell them.
Incognito™ is What the Name Implies
Incognito™ braces are, well, incognito. Being on the back of teeth as opposed to the front, it is a great way to treat malocclusions for those self-conscious patients.
Many patients’ chief concerns when considering orthodontic treatment is how it will change their appearance. For those patients who want to better their smile without others knowing, Incognito™ is the perfect treatment option.
Incognito™ Braces are 100% Customized
Incognito™ braces are as unique as the people who wear them. Because no two people are alike, no two sets of Incognito™ are alike.
To create lingual braces, an orthodontist will take a mold of the
teeth. This can be done using the more traditional method or use newer technology to get a digital impression of the teeth (Orthodontic Associates uses a 3M True Definition Scanner).
Your (digital) impression is sent to Incognito™. Here the brackets and wires are manufactured according to your orthodontist’s treatment plan. This process takes about six weeks. After that, the brackets are bonded (or "cemented") to the back of your teeth.
With Incognito™, you have a completely custom made bracket system, ensuring effective, and efficient treatment combined with great aesthetics.
Incognito™—Advanced Technology for Flawless Results
These unique braces are created using state-of-the-art robotic technology that bends wires so precisely that they become 100% customized for your case, and each bracket is made to conform to the shape of your teeth.
They are more effective than plastic aligners. These braces can correct complex problems such as rotations, bite discrepancies, as well as crowding and/or spacing.
Manufacturers of Incognito™ braces are continually making design improvements. Today’s low-profile brackets are one a fraction of the size of their traditional counterparts.
Most lingual braces are 1.5mm thick, whereas older ones were 3.5mm. Incognito™ brackets’ contours are much rounder and smoother than previously available.
Almost Anyone Can Wear Incognito™
Incognito™ braces have been used to treat men and women ranging from the age of 13 to older than 60. Most people who can be treated with regular braces can be treated with Incognito, but only your orthodontist can tell you if Incognito™ is the right treatment option for you.
People who stand to benefit from this treatment approach can include:
- Adult professionals
- People who want to avoid damage to the front surfaces of their teeth
- People who are concerned about wearing braces that show
- Musicians who play wind instruments
- Adults and teens who participate in contact sports
What is the Cost of Incognito™?
Incognito™ braces have two unique components that traditional braces lack:
- they are customized to fit your mouth, and
- are cast in gold rather than stainless steel.
Each tooth has its own installment of brackets and archwires, so the cost can be higher than traditional braces (which is about $5,000 on average). Because they're custom made, treatment also tends to be more involved and therefore affects the cost.
However, the exact amount will depend on your treatment needs. Several factors can weigh into treatment costs based on your specific needs, so it is worth scheduling a consultation with one of our experts in this method of orthodontic treatment before you rule out the treatment based on cost.
And if cost is a factor, but you would definitely feel more comfortable wearing hidden braces, talk to the treatment coordinator about ways to make the treatment cost financially feasible. Also keep in mind that for relatively minor corrections, it is possible to treat your case you with lingual braces only on the front teeth, which are most visible when you smile.
You also can elect to place Incognito™ braces on your top arch, and traditional braces (metal or clear) on the bottom, as these teeth are usually less visible to others.
How Will My Incognito™ Appointments Be Different?
As we have been treating with Incognito™ for over 8 years, with hundreds of patients, our doctors and staff are very familiar with Incognito™. Your appointments aren’t any longer than they would be if you had traditional braces.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Incognito™?
Due to their placements facing the inside of the mouth, Incognito lingual braces may irritate the tongue and may cause it to become tender. Using wax against the lower teeth to cover the braces can help alleviate this soreness.
Some people reported that their speaking and enunciation was initially affected while wearing lingual braces.
Some patients say that their lingual braces also made eating a little different. Also, general oral hygiene practices become more time consuming.
Your orthodontist will provide you with a list of foods to avoid. While following dietary and hygiene recommendations is important no matter the type of braces you’re wearing, being diligent about following instructions is paramount if you are wearing lingual braces.
