POSTED UNDER Lingual Braces REVIEWS
Lingual Braces - 29 Years Old Female - South Africa, ZA
ORIGINAL POST
Hey everyone, I am a 29 year old female from Cape...
Female29SouthAfricaNovember 23, 2016
$2,560
Hey everyone,
I am a 29 year old female from Cape Town, South Africa. Over the years I have noticed the crowding of my bottom teeth (one tooth in particular that pushes back) has increased. It has bothered me to some degree as it's sort of like 'where is my tooth venturing off to and how long will its journey last' lol.
Also, during a visit with my dentist (a year or so ago), she made mention that my top front teeth were a bit skew - I soon realized what she meant when I saw a side photograph of myself (closeup) and yeah they were less straight than I'd imagined.
I think straight, well cared for teeth are so beautiful and after some thought decided to visit an orthodontist situated in Cape Town, SA to see what my options were.
The process was quite simple - photographs (as per the ones I have attached to my review), moulds - nothing unbearable by any means, and then the required X-rays. Seeing as I had had a root canal done a year prior (which required a pan X-ray) I was able to skip having an X-ray done at the orthodontist and forwarded along my pan X-ray from my dentists office.
Within a week or two I received a diagnosis + treatment plans + quotations from my orthodontist and after reading through my options decided Lingual braces were the way for me to go (although a bit more fussy, they are invisible as they are fixed to the back of ones teeth).
As I am from South Africa, here is an idea of pricing in Rands:
- Steel Straightwire Appliance =
R21 500.00
- Steel Self-Ligating Brackets =
R23 500.00
- Ceramic Straightwire Brackets =
R27 000.00
- Ceramic Self-Ligating Brackets =
R36 000.00
- Invisalign Type Appliance =
R65 000.00
- Lingual Appliance =
R36 000.00
As mentioned, I opted for the Lingual Braces @ R36 000.00. I needed to make a R14 500.00 payment upfront and the balance is to be paid off via a monthly eft over 18 months (interest free).
I had my Lingual Braces put on yesterday (22 November 2016) after having a compulsory teeth cleaning (on site oral hygienest). The cleaning took half an hour and the Linguals took about 2 hours for application. The process consisted of a second cleaning, the attaching of brackets (I think this is the correct term) with a type of cement to the back of my teeth followed by the inserting of wires. The procedure was totally fine except my jaw did get quite tired and the plastic contraption they use to keep ones mouth open got a little uncomfortable against my gums - and not to mention the image of it all that I had in my mind made me want to laugh at the start :P
The Dr and his assistant were lovely, checking in every now and then that I was alright and to see if I needed a break at any point. I took just one break, as per my orthodontist - go team go!! I didn't want to waste any time!
After my Linguals had been applied, I had a pink substance (feels like raised fillings almost) put on either side of my mouth (back teeth) so that when (if ever) I chew food, the pressure will fall on these temporary hardened pink blobs as opposed to me biting down on my braces.
I was advised accordingly how to clean clean CLEAN twice a day - brush, regular floss down to the point of each bracket, then use a pick type floss to get to the hard to reach places and finish off with a mouthwash - woah boy!! This better be worth it in the end ;)
I was also given the low down on what to eat and what not to eat. Goodbye fun food, hello liquid living (Including very soft foods). An example: nothing tough, crunchy, chewy or sizeable (bites) but rather soft, liquid... and if you'd like a apple for e.g. you must break off tiny pieces to chew at a time type thing...
As it is verrrrry early days for me right now, I have been advised to have soups, scrambled eggs, smoothies... and should pain/discomfort occur, sucking on ice blocks / lollies is the way to go. Oh and I was given some sort of rubber stuff to put against whichever brackets hurt my tongue at any given time.
Last night (being my first night having the Linguals), an attempt to eat soup left me very disheartened. It was awkward, uncomfortable and I felt like most of the soup was trapped behind bars, I mean Linguals, at the back of my teeth :/
I'm usually a very chatty person but a long-ish phone call left me completely spent,verbally, and my tongue felt really irritated and jabbed (by the wires and brackets). Also, the realization that I wouldn't be able to eat a whole range of awesome food items for some time (or at least with the same care free enjoyment as before) made me feel pretty bleak - but let's be honest, there are more malicious scenarios in this world than finding yourself forced into healthy eating, slow chewing & intense oral hygiene.
It is now the 'morning after' - Day 2 and I've woken up to the same level of discomfort as I went to bed with. No pain. Just discomfort at having metal brackets and wires pushed up agaisnt the bottom and sides of my tongue :/
I have my next orthodontist appointment in 4 weeks, at which point more wires will be inserted. Perhaps each patients process / application differs due to their specific requirements... hence my orthodontist not wanting to overload me with all the wires at once for xyz reason...).
So, to conclude, I do not regret my decision in the long term sense as I know the results will be beautiful (touch wood ;) however as with anything, in order to get to the finish line you gotta run the race and right now the starting line is not my favorite place to be. And I would LOVE to go for a proper breakfast now but that could just be me wanting what I can't have - ya'll know the appeal :)
Any questions, please ask away. I will keep posting updates on this thread of mine as and when there's any action.
Good luck to those who are going ahead with Linguals - or any other braces for that matter. It's a pain (a pun only for some) but I can only imagine how happy we will all be the day our smiles are on point and we can look back and say we are glad we went ahead with such a mean feat :)
I am a 29 year old female from Cape Town, South Africa. Over the years I have noticed the crowding of my bottom teeth (one tooth in particular that pushes back) has increased. It has bothered me to some degree as it's sort of like 'where is my tooth venturing off to and how long will its journey last' lol.
Also, during a visit with my dentist (a year or so ago), she made mention that my top front teeth were a bit skew - I soon realized what she meant when I saw a side photograph of myself (closeup) and yeah they were less straight than I'd imagined.
I think straight, well cared for teeth are so beautiful and after some thought decided to visit an orthodontist situated in Cape Town, SA to see what my options were.
The process was quite simple - photographs (as per the ones I have attached to my review), moulds - nothing unbearable by any means, and then the required X-rays. Seeing as I had had a root canal done a year prior (which required a pan X-ray) I was able to skip having an X-ray done at the orthodontist and forwarded along my pan X-ray from my dentists office.
Within a week or two I received a diagnosis + treatment plans + quotations from my orthodontist and after reading through my options decided Lingual braces were the way for me to go (although a bit more fussy, they are invisible as they are fixed to the back of ones teeth).
As I am from South Africa, here is an idea of pricing in Rands:
- Steel Straightwire Appliance =
R21 500.00
- Steel Self-Ligating Brackets =
R23 500.00
- Ceramic Straightwire Brackets =
R27 000.00
- Ceramic Self-Ligating Brackets =
R36 000.00
- Invisalign Type Appliance =
R65 000.00
- Lingual Appliance =
R36 000.00
As mentioned, I opted for the Lingual Braces @ R36 000.00. I needed to make a R14 500.00 payment upfront and the balance is to be paid off via a monthly eft over 18 months (interest free).
I had my Lingual Braces put on yesterday (22 November 2016) after having a compulsory teeth cleaning (on site oral hygienest). The cleaning took half an hour and the Linguals took about 2 hours for application. The process consisted of a second cleaning, the attaching of brackets (I think this is the correct term) with a type of cement to the back of my teeth followed by the inserting of wires. The procedure was totally fine except my jaw did get quite tired and the plastic contraption they use to keep ones mouth open got a little uncomfortable against my gums - and not to mention the image of it all that I had in my mind made me want to laugh at the start :P
The Dr and his assistant were lovely, checking in every now and then that I was alright and to see if I needed a break at any point. I took just one break, as per my orthodontist - go team go!! I didn't want to waste any time!
After my Linguals had been applied, I had a pink substance (feels like raised fillings almost) put on either side of my mouth (back teeth) so that when (if ever) I chew food, the pressure will fall on these temporary hardened pink blobs as opposed to me biting down on my braces.
I was advised accordingly how to clean clean CLEAN twice a day - brush, regular floss down to the point of each bracket, then use a pick type floss to get to the hard to reach places and finish off with a mouthwash - woah boy!! This better be worth it in the end ;)
I was also given the low down on what to eat and what not to eat. Goodbye fun food, hello liquid living (Including very soft foods). An example: nothing tough, crunchy, chewy or sizeable (bites) but rather soft, liquid... and if you'd like a apple for e.g. you must break off tiny pieces to chew at a time type thing...
As it is verrrrry early days for me right now, I have been advised to have soups, scrambled eggs, smoothies... and should pain/discomfort occur, sucking on ice blocks / lollies is the way to go. Oh and I was given some sort of rubber stuff to put against whichever brackets hurt my tongue at any given time.
Last night (being my first night having the Linguals), an attempt to eat soup left me very disheartened. It was awkward, uncomfortable and I felt like most of the soup was trapped behind bars, I mean Linguals, at the back of my teeth :/
I'm usually a very chatty person but a long-ish phone call left me completely spent,verbally, and my tongue felt really irritated and jabbed (by the wires and brackets). Also, the realization that I wouldn't be able to eat a whole range of awesome food items for some time (or at least with the same care free enjoyment as before) made me feel pretty bleak - but let's be honest, there are more malicious scenarios in this world than finding yourself forced into healthy eating, slow chewing & intense oral hygiene.
It is now the 'morning after' - Day 2 and I've woken up to the same level of discomfort as I went to bed with. No pain. Just discomfort at having metal brackets and wires pushed up agaisnt the bottom and sides of my tongue :/
I have my next orthodontist appointment in 4 weeks, at which point more wires will be inserted. Perhaps each patients process / application differs due to their specific requirements... hence my orthodontist not wanting to overload me with all the wires at once for xyz reason...).
So, to conclude, I do not regret my decision in the long term sense as I know the results will be beautiful (touch wood ;) however as with anything, in order to get to the finish line you gotta run the race and right now the starting line is not my favorite place to be. And I would LOVE to go for a proper breakfast now but that could just be me wanting what I can't have - ya'll know the appeal :)
Any questions, please ask away. I will keep posting updates on this thread of mine as and when there's any action.
Good luck to those who are going ahead with Linguals - or any other braces for that matter. It's a pain (a pun only for some) but I can only imagine how happy we will all be the day our smiles are on point and we can look back and say we are glad we went ahead with such a mean feat :)
Replies (25)
September 23, 2017
Thank you! I wish I read you review before I got the incognito braces yesterday. They are terribly painful and I could have saved myself a lot of pain and money if I had opted to keep lingual on top and opted for the clear at the bottom. I'm curious how everything worked for you in the long run. Thanks for sharing!
September 24, 2017
Hi Janet
Well done on your decision to get linguals. It's been 2 months shy of a year since I had mine put on and let me tell you, it is SO worth it. As with all changes in life, you will adapt to this new addition to your lifestyle.
I would say that my regret to get the linguals was immediate - but this feeling lasted for only a few days. I remember being caught somewhere between frustration and panic invisioning the long term discomfort. But life went on, I learnt the linguals ropes (from eating to cleaning), and it didn't take long before I could confidently eat almost all of my favorite foods once more.
If you feel concerned as you go along or if you have questions, you just pick up the phone to your orthodontist and they will put you at ease - they've been down this road with their patients for many years.
Now for the best part - you start to really notice the changes to the appearance of your teeth. Other people notice and comment. And you begin to trust the process and become 100% confident that your teeth - in the not so distant future - are going to look fabulous.
For me the most exciting moment was noticing the crowding in my bottom teeth had straightened out. It really is so exciting. It's sort of like when an overweight person resolves to eat well and exercise. At first it's not easy yet they persevere without any changes to spur them on. And then suddenly, one day, they notice a slimmer figure, muscle definition etc...
Trust the process - it's actually quite an interesting one. It's foreign to you right now but in a few months time I'd love you to post a comment on my thread telling me what I already know is going to happen - that you adapted, and the changes you're seeing are awesome and you're now sold on your decision to go lingual ;)
As for having lingual on top + clear on the bottom. I initially regretted not having lingual on the top and ordinary braces on the bottom but ag it is what it is and by now I'm totally happy with the way things have worked out, no regrets at all. And also, other types of braces have their downsides as well - i.e. front braces hurt the inside of your lips and cheeks for instance whereas linguals are harsher on the tongue when the brackets or wires start to stick out a bit (this your orthodontist will sort out by snipping / tucking in wires / brackets at each follow up appointment).
Chat again and please know that this brave, big decision you've made is a rather frustrating one at the start but so so worth it (and make sure to always have a pack of wax in your bag + a few spare packs at home, they are gold).
You'll feel better soon soon, I promise x
Well done on your decision to get linguals. It's been 2 months shy of a year since I had mine put on and let me tell you, it is SO worth it. As with all changes in life, you will adapt to this new addition to your lifestyle.
I would say that my regret to get the linguals was immediate - but this feeling lasted for only a few days. I remember being caught somewhere between frustration and panic invisioning the long term discomfort. But life went on, I learnt the linguals ropes (from eating to cleaning), and it didn't take long before I could confidently eat almost all of my favorite foods once more.
If you feel concerned as you go along or if you have questions, you just pick up the phone to your orthodontist and they will put you at ease - they've been down this road with their patients for many years.
Now for the best part - you start to really notice the changes to the appearance of your teeth. Other people notice and comment. And you begin to trust the process and become 100% confident that your teeth - in the not so distant future - are going to look fabulous.
For me the most exciting moment was noticing the crowding in my bottom teeth had straightened out. It really is so exciting. It's sort of like when an overweight person resolves to eat well and exercise. At first it's not easy yet they persevere without any changes to spur them on. And then suddenly, one day, they notice a slimmer figure, muscle definition etc...
Trust the process - it's actually quite an interesting one. It's foreign to you right now but in a few months time I'd love you to post a comment on my thread telling me what I already know is going to happen - that you adapted, and the changes you're seeing are awesome and you're now sold on your decision to go lingual ;)
As for having lingual on top + clear on the bottom. I initially regretted not having lingual on the top and ordinary braces on the bottom but ag it is what it is and by now I'm totally happy with the way things have worked out, no regrets at all. And also, other types of braces have their downsides as well - i.e. front braces hurt the inside of your lips and cheeks for instance whereas linguals are harsher on the tongue when the brackets or wires start to stick out a bit (this your orthodontist will sort out by snipping / tucking in wires / brackets at each follow up appointment).
Chat again and please know that this brave, big decision you've made is a rather frustrating one at the start but so so worth it (and make sure to always have a pack of wax in your bag + a few spare packs at home, they are gold).
You'll feel better soon soon, I promise x
September 28, 2017
Thank you so much for your response. I was ready to throw in the towel and have the bottom brace removed. I really appreciate your insight and encouragement. I am following your lead and I now have a more positive outlook. I needed to lose weight and I actually lost 10 lbs in the 5days since I got the braces because of my inability to eat solid food. I am smiling through the immense pain and looking forward to having a perfect smile like you! Best regards.
September 28, 2017
Amazing, I'm so glad I could be of some support to you! And congrats on shifting a few necessary pounds, sounds like you've indirectly found yourself on the right path :)
I was at my orthodontist today and he told me I'm about 50/60% of the way through. My teeth are already mostly straight now but he said the next part is to get that STRAIGHT STRAIGHT look. I'm quite excited because I wondered if where my teeth are at now would be about as good as it gets (straight, but I've seen straighter type thing) but it seems there's more to come :) We are always learning and being surprised (in the good sense) on this braces journey.
Stay strong, things get better from here, and remember we're all in this together.
Keep in touch if you have any questions or would just like to shout at my wall about an irritating sticking out wire or an apple that could not be bitten into ;)
I was at my orthodontist today and he told me I'm about 50/60% of the way through. My teeth are already mostly straight now but he said the next part is to get that STRAIGHT STRAIGHT look. I'm quite excited because I wondered if where my teeth are at now would be about as good as it gets (straight, but I've seen straighter type thing) but it seems there's more to come :) We are always learning and being surprised (in the good sense) on this braces journey.
Stay strong, things get better from here, and remember we're all in this together.
Keep in touch if you have any questions or would just like to shout at my wall about an irritating sticking out wire or an apple that could not be bitten into ;)
July 3, 2018
Hi There, you posted this ages ago - but I'm also 29 in Cape Town looking at the same treatment with Dr Booley. Now that I assume your braces are off, are you happy with the results?
July 7, 2018
Hi there
Lingual braces sit at the back of your teeth as opposed to the front (as per regular braces).
From a financial and fussy point of view they are a bit higher maintenance however from an aesthetic point of view, they're lovely and inconspicuous - a perfect option for professionals in the working world (for example).
Have a look online - there is so much info and you can then decide for yourself which option suits you and your lifestyle :)
Lingual braces sit at the back of your teeth as opposed to the front (as per regular braces).
From a financial and fussy point of view they are a bit higher maintenance however from an aesthetic point of view, they're lovely and inconspicuous - a perfect option for professionals in the working world (for example).
Have a look online - there is so much info and you can then decide for yourself which option suits you and your lifestyle :)
July 7, 2018
Hello :)
I was given an estimate treatment time of 18 months however that has since changed to 24 months.
During my appointment last week I was advised that my top brackets & wire will be removed at my next appointment, end of August (YAY). I have however since requested another earlier appointment over and above my end-Aug appointment as I feel my top teeth, although straight, have taken an ever-so-slight back step in the last while, due to tightening only happening at appointments on my bottom row (which is nearly straight but has another little while to go til straight-straight).
Express any concerns or wants as and when you feel as this is a long journey and you want to feel 100% happy with the results. If you feel appointments need to be closer together or a wire needs to be snipped just 2 days after a visit or anything else, let your orthodontist know and they will assist you.
Dr Booley is very nice and works with you to get you the results you want. He practices at Kromboom on a Tuesday & Thursday afternoon-evening so appointments will need to fit into these days and times (perhaps this resulted in the treatments time frame increasing a tad).
Overall though I am happy with the results and am most happy that I went ahead with lingual braces (or braces in general).
I still use wax (I buy mine at Dischem) against a sharp bracket or wire here and there but it honestly becomes the norm. It will feel anything but normal at the start but it DOES get better and easier and then part of your life. And you will be so excited a few months in when you start noticing improvements.
I will be uploading updated pics of my teeth soon - you will definitely see the difference between when I started and now.
Best of luck, it's a big worthwhile decision.
I was given an estimate treatment time of 18 months however that has since changed to 24 months.
During my appointment last week I was advised that my top brackets & wire will be removed at my next appointment, end of August (YAY). I have however since requested another earlier appointment over and above my end-Aug appointment as I feel my top teeth, although straight, have taken an ever-so-slight back step in the last while, due to tightening only happening at appointments on my bottom row (which is nearly straight but has another little while to go til straight-straight).
Express any concerns or wants as and when you feel as this is a long journey and you want to feel 100% happy with the results. If you feel appointments need to be closer together or a wire needs to be snipped just 2 days after a visit or anything else, let your orthodontist know and they will assist you.
Dr Booley is very nice and works with you to get you the results you want. He practices at Kromboom on a Tuesday & Thursday afternoon-evening so appointments will need to fit into these days and times (perhaps this resulted in the treatments time frame increasing a tad).
Overall though I am happy with the results and am most happy that I went ahead with lingual braces (or braces in general).
I still use wax (I buy mine at Dischem) against a sharp bracket or wire here and there but it honestly becomes the norm. It will feel anything but normal at the start but it DOES get better and easier and then part of your life. And you will be so excited a few months in when you start noticing improvements.
I will be uploading updated pics of my teeth soon - you will definitely see the difference between when I started and now.
Best of luck, it's a big worthwhile decision.
July 7, 2018
Thanks so much for your reply. So exciting that the end is in sight for you! Have you found speech difficult at all, and how long did it take for your lisp to go away (or did it)? I have to talk a lot at work, so concerned that lingual my not be right - there are such horror stories on here about the pain and the inability to talk. Interested to hear your experience as you are almost at the end.
July 7, 2018
You're most welcome, happy to chat at any point on your lingual braces journey.
The biggest effect on my speech is saying '3' (or at least was as this has definitely eased up over time).
At the start, in the first week or so, everything will be a little weird / difficult but that's only while you are getting used to your linguals. Eating as well as talking for long periods or at a somewhat fast pace can seem strained but this WILL ease up.
A few days after having my braces fit I remember feeling very self-conscious at a second-round job interview as I thought the company may not want to hire someone who was 'slurry' because of braces (what the heck, lol). Anyways, turns out I wasn't slurry after all (merely self conscious while adapting) and I got the job.
A big help is the ortho wax - as I hadn't used wax for 29 years, I initially pushed against relying on it to relieve discomfort. But as I mentioned, you adapt and over 1.5 years down the line, ortho wax is a staple in my make up bag ;)
And on the topic of scary reviews about pain and regret, I saw some of these too way back when and they definitely concerned me. But as it turned out, I cannot relate to any of the negative stuff I read.
The biggest effect on my speech is saying '3' (or at least was as this has definitely eased up over time).
At the start, in the first week or so, everything will be a little weird / difficult but that's only while you are getting used to your linguals. Eating as well as talking for long periods or at a somewhat fast pace can seem strained but this WILL ease up.
A few days after having my braces fit I remember feeling very self-conscious at a second-round job interview as I thought the company may not want to hire someone who was 'slurry' because of braces (what the heck, lol). Anyways, turns out I wasn't slurry after all (merely self conscious while adapting) and I got the job.
A big help is the ortho wax - as I hadn't used wax for 29 years, I initially pushed against relying on it to relieve discomfort. But as I mentioned, you adapt and over 1.5 years down the line, ortho wax is a staple in my make up bag ;)
And on the topic of scary reviews about pain and regret, I saw some of these too way back when and they definitely concerned me. But as it turned out, I cannot relate to any of the negative stuff I read.
July 7, 2018
My lingual braces treatment with Dr Booley at the Kromboom dental practice was R36 000.00 - I paid R14 500.00 upfront and the rest I paid in installments over 18 months (interest free).
Lingual braces are a bit more expensive than regular braces, but well worth it if you don't want to your braces on display.
Lingual braces are a bit more expensive than regular braces, but well worth it if you don't want to your braces on display.
July 4, 2018
Can you explain what lingual braces are? Where do they put them? How are they different from regular braces? Just curious!
July 7, 2018
Hi there
Lingual braces sit at the back of your teeth as opposed to the front (as per regular braces).
From a financial and fussy point of view they are a bit higher maintenance however from an aesthetic point of view, they're lovely and inconspicuous - a perfect option for professionals in the working world (for example).
Also, have a look online - there is so much info and you can then decide for yourself which option suits you and your lifestyle :)
Lingual braces sit at the back of your teeth as opposed to the front (as per regular braces).
From a financial and fussy point of view they are a bit higher maintenance however from an aesthetic point of view, they're lovely and inconspicuous - a perfect option for professionals in the working world (for example).
Also, have a look online - there is so much info and you can then decide for yourself which option suits you and your lifestyle :)
February 10, 2021
It's my first night of lingual too and I'm also in discomfort and tried practicing talking to prepare for afternoon meetings by singing along to Pitbull in the car on the way home, and ended up cutting my tongue. My teeth don't touch each other so I can't bite anything, even soft potato in soup and blueberries in yoghurt was too hard. I had beef broth with gelatin and it felt like the heat was melting the glue on the inside of my top front teeth so realize hot liquid is also out. My tongue and throat feel raw. I put some wax on (something I wanted to do without) and took n Advil so will go to sleep . I'm thinking that if I can't eat solid food for 18 months, then I will rip these things out. Today is worse than I expected.
February 11, 2021
Hello :) I know just how much discomfort and frustration you're feeling at the moment - shortly after having lingual braces fitted I found myself crying over a falafel pita I couldn't eat without annihilating my tongue and the insides of my mouth...
I can totally empathize on the work front - I'd had my braces fitted shortly after an interview - when I was called back for a 2nd interview I felt so self conscious from the discomfort + sudden inability to pronounce '3' that I was sure I wouldn't get the job (I did get the job, side note :)
Ironically, lingual braces turned out to be a real conversation piece at gatherings / when meeting new people (such as my then-new job).
Please do give your lingual braces a chance to work their magic - they're a miserable experience to begin with but I PROMISE you will adapt and the payoff is well worth it - and it's so exciting to SUDDENLY see progress when you least expect it.
And although your soundtrack will be more Enya than Pitbull for the time being, time will move along and you'll enjoy solid foods again - it's such early days right now and new territory but you will come to work around having braces - wax is gold and ice lollies are such soothers (lollies from organic/wholefood stores - better for teeth/health).
Sending you strength and again I promise the process will only get better :)
I can totally empathize on the work front - I'd had my braces fitted shortly after an interview - when I was called back for a 2nd interview I felt so self conscious from the discomfort + sudden inability to pronounce '3' that I was sure I wouldn't get the job (I did get the job, side note :)
Ironically, lingual braces turned out to be a real conversation piece at gatherings / when meeting new people (such as my then-new job).
Please do give your lingual braces a chance to work their magic - they're a miserable experience to begin with but I PROMISE you will adapt and the payoff is well worth it - and it's so exciting to SUDDENLY see progress when you least expect it.
And although your soundtrack will be more Enya than Pitbull for the time being, time will move along and you'll enjoy solid foods again - it's such early days right now and new territory but you will come to work around having braces - wax is gold and ice lollies are such soothers (lollies from organic/wholefood stores - better for teeth/health).
Sending you strength and again I promise the process will only get better :)
UPDATED FROM Female29SouthAfrica
1 year post
Updated pics - as at May 2018
Female29SouthAfricaJuly 9, 2018
Replies (0)
UPDATED FROM Female29SouthAfrica
3 years post
3 Years Later - 32 Years Old Female - South Africa, ZA
Female29SouthAfricaNovember 27, 2019
It has been 3 years + 5 days (but hey! who's counting) since I had Lingual Braces put on (and subsequently taken off, woooohoooo!).
Here is a quick update (the journey continues):
It has been about a year since my Lingual Braces were removed - it's the strangest thing, I expected joyous fireworks that day - a new lease on life - but I literally adapted to life pre-braces before even leaving the orthodontists center. The most notable thing for me was how incredibly smooth the back of my teeth felt, that was it really (side note: may this be encouraging for those new to braces - and freaking out - as to how one simply just adapts to them - even Linguals :)!
By this point, the straightness of my teeth was at about 93-95% and the next steps would be to even out a very slight bottom teeth overlap + the angles of one or two of my top teeth - as we were not achieving the very final results with Lingual Braces, retainers came to the rescue.
A few weeks (and teeth moulds) later, it was just me, my retainer (and the open road?). I was instructed to wear my retainer each night (for at least 8 hours) and during the day my teeth were free (hopefully not to do as they pleased, which did make me gulp as I had just spent 2 years nurturing the Lingual Braces process and now there was seemingly nothing stopping my progress from unraveling during the day). I had quarterly (every 3 months) check-ups scheduled in order to monitor any potential unwanted movements while my teeth settled out of the Lingual Braces.
I definitely felt the overall/wait between appointments was unnecessary. With each check-up, there was no progress - only monitoring - and I grew frustrated as the retainers felt less and less 'fitted' and I began noticing some unwanted movements (over and above having no progress on the bottom overlap).
I did express my concerns regarding time lapsing / unwanted movements to my orthodontist and within a few weeks I had a back-to-back appointments scheduled plus a new method to conclude my Braces process - this is where I am currently at.
Right now I have strategically placed little 'attachments' on various teeth and wear a new retainer set throughout the day/night (except while eating) which fits over these 'attachments'. Over the next few appointments, spaced only a few weeks apart, these attachments will be adjusted/moved accordingly (perhaps with another retainer set in the mix).
I look forward to February 2020 as this is where I believe the finish line is - and I will be sent on my way with a bar behind my top and bottom teeth + a final retainer set, to be worn every evening and eventually every second or third evening.
As always, I am sending lots of 'strong arm' emoticons to all my fellow Lingual/Braces wearers and if you have any questions, please do ask! Although 3 years later I am now very used to having beautifully straight teeth, when I look back to the start of my Braces journey, I am SO HAPPY I embarked on such mean feat :)
Here is a quick update (the journey continues):
It has been about a year since my Lingual Braces were removed - it's the strangest thing, I expected joyous fireworks that day - a new lease on life - but I literally adapted to life pre-braces before even leaving the orthodontists center. The most notable thing for me was how incredibly smooth the back of my teeth felt, that was it really (side note: may this be encouraging for those new to braces - and freaking out - as to how one simply just adapts to them - even Linguals :)!
By this point, the straightness of my teeth was at about 93-95% and the next steps would be to even out a very slight bottom teeth overlap + the angles of one or two of my top teeth - as we were not achieving the very final results with Lingual Braces, retainers came to the rescue.
A few weeks (and teeth moulds) later, it was just me, my retainer (and the open road?). I was instructed to wear my retainer each night (for at least 8 hours) and during the day my teeth were free (hopefully not to do as they pleased, which did make me gulp as I had just spent 2 years nurturing the Lingual Braces process and now there was seemingly nothing stopping my progress from unraveling during the day). I had quarterly (every 3 months) check-ups scheduled in order to monitor any potential unwanted movements while my teeth settled out of the Lingual Braces.
I definitely felt the overall/wait between appointments was unnecessary. With each check-up, there was no progress - only monitoring - and I grew frustrated as the retainers felt less and less 'fitted' and I began noticing some unwanted movements (over and above having no progress on the bottom overlap).
I did express my concerns regarding time lapsing / unwanted movements to my orthodontist and within a few weeks I had a back-to-back appointments scheduled plus a new method to conclude my Braces process - this is where I am currently at.
Right now I have strategically placed little 'attachments' on various teeth and wear a new retainer set throughout the day/night (except while eating) which fits over these 'attachments'. Over the next few appointments, spaced only a few weeks apart, these attachments will be adjusted/moved accordingly (perhaps with another retainer set in the mix).
I look forward to February 2020 as this is where I believe the finish line is - and I will be sent on my way with a bar behind my top and bottom teeth + a final retainer set, to be worn every evening and eventually every second or third evening.
As always, I am sending lots of 'strong arm' emoticons to all my fellow Lingual/Braces wearers and if you have any questions, please do ask! Although 3 years later I am now very used to having beautifully straight teeth, when I look back to the start of my Braces journey, I am SO HAPPY I embarked on such mean feat :)
I'm also based in Cape Town and was also wondering how you decided on Dr Booley and if you would recommend him to others? Also considering lingual braces..is it worth it?
You're most welcome and thank you for your message :)
A week on and I can say that I'm adapting to the Lingual Braces. Some moments in the day aren't wonderful but mostly it's fine.
I find myself telling people who say 'I've always thought about getting braces' that it's not worth the frustration and pain (tongue takes the brunt).
However, that being said, I'm glad I went ahead with my decision to get them - realizing the pending results is quite exciting.
The first couple of days I felt quite sorry for myself and vowed to have the braces taken off. But gradually I've just found myself making do with having them.
The whole food thing got me down initially but now I find I'm eating so well and there are so many options - from ordinary (papaya with banana OR oat bran OR scrambled eggs) to somewhat exotic (Soft boiled potato with hummus OR health shakes from various outlets i.e.: Sumo, Spirit Cafe in Constantia, etc).
The absolute worst feeling overall (in my opinion - and bare in mind it's still such early days) is how exhausting and sore talking eventually becomes. I've had to say a few times 'I need a break from chatting' or 'you can talk to me but I can't talk back for a while'. Early days though...
And it seems that at any given time, one specific bracket/wire is jabbing my tongue causing a pre-ulcer feeling, although I've yet to get an ulcer.
And you need to be very on the ball with your oral hygiene. But you will eventually find yourself in the habit of taking 3X longer to clean your teeth before bed. You'll also probably find yourself rinsing (possibly flossing too) throughout the day post-eating / snacking.
I came across Dr Booley at the Kromboom Dental Centre (Rondebosch East) after Googling Cape Town orthodontists. I called around, inquiring after prices and found Dr Booleys practice to be informative and well priced (I use this term lightly as let's be honest, orthodontists are never inexpensive). I could also afford the braces thanks to the interest free balance payments over 18 months option (this payment structure may very well apply to other practices too).
You will first need to do a consultation with your orthodontist before you get the ball rolling on your braces treatment.
Dr Booley's consultation will cost in the region of R1000.00+- depending if you require X-rays from them or not. If not, the cost is lower.
What I would suggest (I'd have inquired after this had I known it were possible), is asking your orthodontist about having Lingual Braces on your top teeth and clear front braces on your bottom teeth. I read on one review that someone had opted for this and - especially since my bottom teeth aren't that visible when I talk - it may have saved me quite a bit of discomfort. Then again, I have no idea what front braces feel like or how they may hurt the inside of a persons lips for instance. Also, maybe food getting caught in the front isn't as glamorous as having it caught in the back ;)
Give your chosen orthodontist a ring (I would recommend Dr Booley) to arrange for a consultation and take it from there.
Lingual Braces can be so annoying at times (again I say, early days) but other times you won't really notice and in the end, you can only be happy with your results :)
Any more questions, etc you may ask away.
Whoops sorry for only responding now - I only just saw this comment today.
I see you posted your comment in April - which means you are now at the point I was at the time of writing to me. Am I correct in assuming that by now you have long since adapted to your lingual braces and eating and cleaning have become far less of a hassle?
I did #Lol at your reference to the Jungle Book snake. I tell you, it continues to be an issue for me to say the number 3. It's like '1... 2... thhhhhhhreeeeee...4...5...' :P
I am also sort of self conscious while / after eating as it still feels like I have food for days in my teeth. And now and then when a wire or bracket knicks my tongue it can be quite a yikes couple days - but this is where the wax comes in and saves the day.
By now you should have also noticed some exciting changes to your teeth. I mentioned in another comment on my thread that when I first noticed that my once-crowded bottom teeth had pulled straight, well, it was quite a lingual victory! That definitely made me feel that this was so worth it, and I began to feel really excited for the end result.
So as far as how I'm going 10 months into having my braces, I've adapated 100% and I almost can't remember what it was like not to have my 'reverse grills' :P
That being said, I can't wait for the day my teeth are set free from these shackles ;) as let's be honest, not having them is better than having them, but I am SO happy with my decision to have them as I think straight pearly whites are just fabulous.
Let me know how you are doing almost 6 months in x