I have been working with lingual braces (lingual=tongue side) or “Invisible braces” for the past 20 years.
The main advantage of this system is that they are virtually invisible to people around you, and the main disadvantage is that it is much harder for the orthodontist to work with, and in some people, it can adversely affect their speech.
The one big technological advancement in the braces in Vancouver world that allowed for the experimentation of lingual braces is the development of a glue that is strong enough to hold the braces onto the surface of the teeth.
In the 1970’s, such a glue was developed, previous to that, braces were held on to teeth with bands that went around the teeth, and give the patients the classic “Railroad tracks” appearance when wearing braces. It took another 20 years of technological and technique development for lingual braces to reach reliability in treatment as traditional braces.
In the last 20 years, further improvement in technology has improved the ease of treatment, thus reducing the amount of time the patient is required to spend at the orthodontic office. The second thing that is making rapid advancement is the use of computers in planning and making of braces treatment, improving the precision in which braces are used in individual patients.
The system I am working with is the Harmony Lingual System. I believe a few reasons make this the most ideal system at this time;
1. Lingual (tongue side) System. The HARMONY System attaches to the interior side of your teeth, so no one knows you are wearing braces but you. Not everyone needs to have “invisible braces”, some people need to have straighter teeth but cannot show their braces because of work, however, many people ask for an aesthetic alternative to the traditional braces for personal reasons.
Lingual braces offer the ultimate in aesthetics with all the treatment advantages of traditional braces and none of the compromises that removable aligner appliances experience.
2. Computer-aided treatment planning. Your orthodontist is able to take advantage of the latest, state-of-the-art technology in designing your smile. The process begins with a digital scan of your teeth, which is used by computer-aided technology to ideally align your teeth on a virtual model, following your orthodontist’s treatment plan.
3. A fully customized hardware solution. The virtual treatment plan can then be translated into braces and wires that are robotically produced, and customized for each patient and their unique situation. This process is extremely technique and technology-sensitive, and up until recently, extremely expensive to produce.
Each HARMONY System is uniquely customized to achieve your perfect smile quickly and efficiently.
4. The ideal hardware design. The HARMONY System is engineered to be small and smooth, which helps you adapt quickly and comfortably to your orthodontic treatment. The self-ligating technology that is built into the HARMONY System offers more control in the hands of your orthodontist to achieve precise tooth alignment.
Self-ligating technology does away with elastic O-rings, so friction in the system is reduced which leads to a more comfortable experience throughout treatment. This technology also improves clinical efficiency, reducing operator error and difficulties, thus reducing the amount of time you spend in the dentist’s office.
Presently, there are no other systems that take advantage of all these innovations. I, therefore, have chosen to use this system for myself and my patients who require the most aesthetic, comprehensive orthodontic treatment.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
