Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are similar to metal braces, but instead of being on the front of your teeth they are on the back, or the “lingual.” Like metal braces, lingual braces are comprised of a “hidden” metal brace, the archwire, and a tie. They are used to straighten teeth and correct bites. The main advantage of lingual braces is that they are virtually invisible from the outside; and, therefore, are often referred to as “hidden” braces.

Depending on the amount of tooth movement required and overall jaw alignment, not every patient is a candidate for lingual braces. Scheduling a free consult with Dr. Knapp, your lingual braces orthodontist, is the easiest way to learn about the best choice for your smile. If you think lingual braces is an option for you, here are some insights on how they work and what to expect.

 

How do lingual braces go on?

The first step to getting an amazing smile is scheduling a free lingual braces consultation. Dr. Knapp will review your personal diagnostic information and make sure lingual braces are right for you. Once approved, a 3D digital scan will be taken of your teeth to create your custom-made lingual braces.

In most cases, lingual braces will take longer to apply than other metal or ceramic types of braces.  Dr. Knapp will need more time because getting behind your teeth is a tight-fitting area. The day you get your lingual braces on, our team will use cheek stretchers (think the game Speak Out™) to keep your lips and cheeks away from your teeth. Next we will use a special tooth shampoo and conditioner to get your teeth super clean. The total time it takes to get your braces on is less than 45 min!

What are the benefits of lingual braces?

Lingual braces are virtually invisible making them a great option for someone desiring a less noticeable treatment option. They can treat complex misalignment’s including correcting rotations, closing gaps due to extractions, or evening out the height of teeth.  Lingual braces are less efficient than braces that go on the front of the teeth but can do more than clear aligners.

What are the limitations of lingual braces?

Lingual braces are not the best orthodontic treatment option for every patient as there are challenges associated with wearing them that are not found with braces that go on the front of the teeth. Because the brace is attached to the back side of the tooth, the braces can severely affect the tongue and its functions. Speech, eating, and overall comfort can be affected and take several weeks to normalize. Overall treatment time with lingual braces is also longer than with braces that go on the front of the teeth due to decreased efficiency of tooth movement. Finally, because the back side of teeth is not uniformly round like the front side of teeth each brace needs to be custom-made for the patient increasing overall treatment cost.

How to clean and brush lingual braces?

There is no sense in having an amazing smile that is full of cavities. That is why we take the time to train each patient on proper brushing and oral hygiene the day their braces go on. Each patient is given an oral hygiene kit with special brushes and tools to keep their braces clean throughout treatment. Some of the fun tools our patients use are Platypus™ Orthodontic Flossers for easy flossing with braces, and “Christmas Tree” brushes for getting between braces.

Start Smiling

Schedule your free lingual braces consultation with Dr. Knapp to begin your journey to a beautiful smile and healthy bite. We’ll cover all your options, go into detail of the advantages and disadvantages of lingual braces, discuss total time in treatment, and most importantly answer all your questions about getting your perfect smile!

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule My Free Consult!