InSmile Braces FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About InSmile Braces
Choosing orthodontic treatment is an important decision, and it's natural to have questions. Below are answers to what we hear most often from patients considering InSmile Braces. If you don't see your question, we'd be happy to answer it during your complimentary consultation at BigSmile Orthodontics.
General Questions
What are InSmile Braces?
InSmile Braces are a fully customized lingual orthodontic system that straightens your teeth using braces placed behind your teeth instead of on the front. Because they're hidden from view, most people won't notice you're wearing them during everyday conversations.
How are InSmile Braces different from traditional braces?
Traditional braces attach to the front of your teeth, while InSmile Braces bond to the inside surfaces facing your tongue, giving you the benefits of fixed orthodontic treatment without visible braces.
How are InSmile Braces different from clear aligners?
Both are designed to straighten teeth discreetly, but they work differently. Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign) are removable and need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day for them to work properly, while InSmile Braces stay attached to your teeth and work continuously without relying on you to wear anything consistently. Both are excellent options, and Dr. Tong will help you determine which fits your smile best during your consultation.
Are InSmile Braces really invisible?
Yes. Because the brackets sit behind your teeth, they're virtually invisible during normal conversations and while smiling.
Who invented InSmile Braces?
Dr. Hongsheng Tong, the orthodontist and owner of BigSmile Orthodontics, is the main inventor of the technology behind InSmile Braces. He co-founded the original company that introduced it, served as its original Chief Technology Officer and Chief Medical Officer, and continues to advise InSmile today while treating patients in Chino and Riverside.
Treatment Questions
Who is a good candidate for InSmile Braces?
Many adults and teenagers are excellent candidates. InSmile Braces can treat crowded teeth, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, rotated teeth, and relapsed orthodontic treatment. The best way to find out if you're a candidate is with a consultation.
Can adults get InSmile Braces?
Absolutely. Many InSmile patients are adults who want treatment that fits their professional lifestyle without drawing attention to their smile.
Can teenagers wear InSmile Braces?
Yes, many teenagers like having braces that are completely hidden while still getting effective treatment.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment varies depending on your orthodontic needs, but many patients complete treatment in approximately 12 to 24 months.
How often are appointments?
Most patients visit approximately every 6 to 8 weeks, though your schedule may vary depending on your treatment plan.
Do I still need rubber bands?
Some patients benefit from wearing elastics to correct their bite. If you need them, Dr. Tong will explain how and why they help you get the best result.
Comfort Questions
Do InSmile Braces hurt?
Like all orthodontic treatment, you may feel mild soreness for a few days to a couple weeks after your braces are placed or adjusted. Most patients describe it as temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain medication if needed.
Will my tongue get sore?
Your tongue may need some time to adjust since the braces sit behind your teeth. The second generation of InSmile Braces uses smoother brackets for improved comfort, and most patients adapt within a few weeks.
Will InSmile Braces affect my speech?
Most patients will notice a slight lisp during the first few days or weeks, but as your tongue adapts, speech typically returns to normal for most patients.
General Questions
What foods should I avoid?
Just like traditional braces, avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage your braces, including ice, hard candy, caramel, taffy, popcorn kernels, and whole apples (cut them into slices instead).
Can I eat normally, without removing anything first?
Yes. Unlike clear aligners, InSmile Braces stay attached while you eat, so after the initial adjustment period, most patients return to eating their favorite foods with a few common-sense precautions.
How do I brush my teeth?
You'll brush just as you would with traditional braces, paying extra attention around each bracket. Our team will show you the easiest techniques and recommend helpful tools interdental brushes and water flossers.
Is flossing harder?
Not really. Thanks to the loops built into the Smartwire between each bracket, you can floss between your teeth just like you would without braces. Food can still get trapped around the wire itself, so many patients also use a water flosser to keep things extra clean.
Can I play sports?
Yes. If you play contact sports, we recommend a properly fitted mouthguard.
Can I play musical instruments?
Most patients adapt well, though wind instrument players may need a short adjustment period.
Cost Questions
How much do InSmile Braces cost?
Treatment fees depend on the complexity of your case. During your consultation, we'll provide a personalized treatment plan and review financing options that fit your budget.
Does insurance cover InSmile Braces?
Many orthodontic insurance plans provide benefits that can be applied toward InSmile treatment, and our team will help you make the most of what's available.
Do you offer financing?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options to help make treatment affordable for your family.
After Treatment
Will I need retainers?
Yes. Retainers are essential after every type of orthodontic treatment, including InSmile Braces, to help maintain your new smile. We'll recommend the best option for your needs and explain how to care for it.
Can teeth move after treatment?
Yes, teeth naturally tend to shift over time. Wearing your retainers as instructed is the best way to protect your results.
Ready to Learn More?
If you're considering InSmile lingual braces, we'd love to help you determine whether InSmile is the right option for your smile.
Schedule your complimentary consultation at BigSmile Orthodontics and experience treatment from the main inventor of InSmile Braces and the only Platinum InSmile Provider serving the Chino and Riverside areas.
