With the small brackets fixed to the back surface of your teeth, lingual braces are completely hidden from view. No-one will know you are having orthodontic treatment!
Lingual braces stay in place for the duration of treatment, keeping your teeth straightening on track. Similar to front surfaces braces, lingual braces can help some problems that aligners struggle to treat.
Lingual braces are custom-made to exactly fit your teeth, ensuring they are both comfortable to wear and give a highly accurate and precise outcome.
Treatment with lingual braces and my expertise at Complete Orthodontics has helped many patients achieve the beautiful straight smile they have been dreaming of. You can view some of my past cases using the link below, and please get in touch if you’d like to find out more about straightening with lingual braces.
See more case studiesLingual braces are a fantastic option for patients looking for an aesthetic teeth straightening system with many of the benefits of traditional fixed braces. Comfort, appearance and reliability combine to give you a carefully controlled and accurate result.
Custom-made small brackets are fitted to the back surface of your teeth, unable to be seen when you smile. Lingual braces work in the same way as fixed braces, with gentle pressure from the archwire gradually moving your teeth into new positions.
To begin your lingual braces treatment, I see you for a detailed consultation to ensure you are suitable. I carefully examine your teeth, explain the treatment process in detail, and ask about your ideal smile. You also get the chance to ask me any questions!
I take scans and images of your teeth using cutting-edge digital technology. These form the basis of your bespoke treatment plan, showing how your teeth will move towards your final result. I discuss your treatment plan with you and give some more detailed information on the costs and timescales for your lingual braces.
I fit your custom-made brackets to the back surface of your teeth in one go, using a specialised tray so the process is accurate and smooth. It also means you don’t need to keep your mouth open too long! I keep a close eye on your treatment, seeing you for regular appointments to ensure everything is going to plan and make necessary adjustments.
When your treatment is finished, I make sure you are happy with your new straight smile and carefully remove your lingual braces. I give you a custom-made retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions for the long term.
If you want straighter teeth, but don’t fancy brackets fixed to the front of your teeth or removable aligners you could lose, lingual braces could be the ideal option for you. It can give you a confidence boost during treatment, as you can see your teeth becoming straighter.
A straighter smile isn’t just about aesthetics, though. Straightening your teeth and ensuring an even bite can also have a very positive effect on your facial structure and overall appearance, enhancing the shape and balancing your facial profile.
Get started todayLingual braces are virtually invisible, and can’t be seen when you smile or talk. As they are fitted on the back surface of your teeth, the only way they become visible is if you tilt your head back or purposely want to show someone. They are an excellent option for patients who want a subtle straightening treatment.
Placing lingual braces on your teeth is a non-invasive procedure and is not painful. You may experience some discomfort in the first few days after your lingual brace is fitted, and after each adjustment, but this is temporary and a good sign that your treatment is working. It may also take a few days for you to get used to the feeling of the brackets next to your tongue.
Lingual braces are widely suitable for the majority of people, especially those who are looking for a discreet fixed option. If you are interested in this method for straightening your teeth, please talk to me.
Retainers are a very important stage of lingual brace treatment. They are used to keep your teeth straight and stop any relapse. Retainers are custom-made to your exact specifications, making them easy and comfortable to wear. It is recommended that you wear retainers overnight to maintain your straight smile for the long term.
It is important to keep your braces clean, although this may be a little harder with lingual brackets. Brush and floss after every meal, using an interdental brush to help you reach between the brackets. I am happy to give you some specialised brushing advice to help you keep your oral health in great condition during treatment. Waterpiks are especially useful for removing food debris from around a difficult-to-see lingual brace.
Lingual brace treatment usually takes around 12-24 months, depending on the complexity of your case. It is often a faster option than traditional fixed braces. I can give you a more accurate idea of the time needed to straighten your smile during your initial consultation.
Lingual braces do not cause damage to your teeth. The brackets are fixed to your teeth using dental-safe adhesive which can be carefully polished off at the end of treatment. If any damage or staining on your teeth occurs due to poor brushing or food choice, this is confined to the back of your teeth and won’t be visible from the front.
