Lingual Braces for Teeth Straightening
Lingual dental braces are ideal for patients who want to straighten their teeth but are conscious about the look of traditional metal braces.
West House Dental can provide lingual braces as a treatment option to correct crooked teeth, an overbite or a crossbite.
Also known as hidden braces or inside braces, lingual braces are fixed orthodontic appliances fitted behind the teeth, making them hidden from the front.
Not all orthodontists and practices offer lingual braces, due to the additional training required to place them.
At West House Dental in Pinner, patients have access to Dr Telmo Iceta, who is a specialist orthodontist and has experience with lingual braces.
During your consultation, we can also discuss whether another discreet teeth-straightening option, such as Invisalign clear aligners or ceramic braces, may be more suitable for your smile.
What Are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are fixed braces that sit behind the teeth rather than on the front surface. This makes them much less visible when you smile, speak or laugh.
They work in a similar way to traditional fixed braces. Brackets and wires apply gentle pressure over time to move the teeth into better positions.
The main difference is placement. Because lingual braces are fitted to the inside of the teeth, they are often chosen by patients who want fixed braces but do not want their braces to be visible from the front.
Are Lingual Braces The Best Option For Me
Lingual dental braces can be great for many reasons. Some excellent reasons for having lingual braces are:
- Lingual braces are completely invisible to others and are popular with celebrities.
- Lingual braces are fixed appliances, making them ideal for patients or children who may be less compliant with removable braces such as Invisalign.
However lingual braces can take a bit of getting use to. Common issues are:
- Some initial difficulties in speech, which can be overcome through practice.
- Some difficulties swallowing, as you can’t thrust your tongue against your teeth. Some people swallow by pressing their tongue against their teeth, which is generally not ideal as it puts pressure on the front teeth and pushes them out. Lingual braces will force you to learn to swallow with a different technique and it usually takes a few weeks to get use to.
- Brushing can be more difficult and it’s recommended to brush your teeth at least 4 times a day when wearing lingual braces.
- With lingual braces you also need to be careful about which foods you eat. You will have to refrain from things like toffee, raw vegetables or chewing gum.
Lingual Braces vs Ceramic Braces and Invisalign
Lingual braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign can all help patients straighten their teeth more discreetly than traditional metal braces, but they work in different ways.
Lingual braces are fixed behind the teeth, so they are hidden from the front. Ceramic braces are fixed to the front of the teeth but use clear or tooth-coloured brackets to make them less noticeable. Invisalign uses removable clear aligners that can be taken out for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.
The right option depends on your teeth, your bite, your lifestyle and how visible you want your treatment to be. During your consultation, we can explain whether lingual braces, ceramic braces or Invisalign would be most suitable for your smile.
How Much Do Lingual Braces Cost?
Lingual braces cost can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the type of tooth movement required and the length of treatment.
Because lingual braces are fitted behind the teeth and require careful planning, they can be more technically complex than some other braces options.
At your consultation, we will assess your teeth and bite, explain whether lingual braces are suitable and discuss the likely treatment cost before you make a decision.
The main advantages of hidden lingual braces are aesthetic. And if you are diligent in your cleaning and eating regime, then invisible lingual braces can be ideal if you are concerned about the way braces would look.
Call 020 8866 3025 to book a free consultation with Dr. Telmo Iceta who will answer any questions you have and discuss with you the various orthodontic options best suited for your specific smile.