Lingual braces: what are lingual braces?

Dive into this article to find out more about the orthodontic technique of lingual braces and if they're a good choice for you.

What are lingual braces?

In recent years orthodontic treatments have become more innovative, with apparatus like lingual braces and removable aligners, which have revolutionised the world of oral health.

They’re hidden braces that are placed on the inside of the teeth so that the treatment isn’t noticeable to others.

How are lingual braces made?

The braces are joined by a metal arch that exerts pressure on the teeth, so that they move gradually until you achieve perfect alignment. They can be made of different materials and come in different shapes, depending on the brand or type used by the orthodontist.

Braces vs lingual braces

If you are wondering if lingual braces are for you, or if braces are a better choice, you really should keep reading to weight up the pros + cons.

People usually opt for lingual braces to manage their treatment discreetly, or if changing their appearance with visible braces might affect their livelihood in some way.

Lingual braces cost

Lingual braces are the most expensive on the market. The techniques used to provide completely invisible and effective treatment make the price of incognito braces quite a bit more expensive than traditional metal braces and other methods that offer you the benefit of being virtually invisible while straightening your smile.

Depending on the complexity of the case to be treated and the orthodontist chosen, the total price of lingual braces is between £3,000 and £10,000.

Lingual braces results

Lingual braces are just as effective as other types of braces. The method also still uses brackets and wires like traditional braces, but they're just not applied to the fronts of the teeth.

If you wear lingual braces, you can solve all kinds of bite problems and straighten your teeth, but there are some disadvantages too.

Lingual braces pros and cons

• Due to the placement of lingual/ incognito braces, the metal brackets can result in a longer adjustment period
• More sores can occur due to the metal components rubbing along your tongue and the the inside of of your cheeks
• While having your teeth straightened discreetly is a bonus, the placement of the braces can make cleaning your teeth thoroughly problematic. This can lead to other oral health complaints during your treatment.

As with any orthodontic treatment, it’s the orthodontist who will suggest the treatment that best suits you. After the professional has analysed your case and confirmed that their recommendation falls within your budget, you can start your orthodontic treatment.

Types of lingual braces

The choice of lingual orthodontic treatment is usually based on the recommendation of your orthodontist, your preferences and your budget.

Gold lingual orthodontics

These brackets are the most modern and comfortable brackets on the market; because they are the thinnest. Incognito lingual braces moulded in gold allows them to adopt the exact shape of your teeth and fit perfectly.

This feature makes treatment much more pleasant; the tongue is not in direct contact with a large mass of metal, making them the lingual braces type with the least pain.

Self-ligating lingual braces

This particular type of lingual braces doesn’t require an elastic band to attach each piece to the metal arch, like conventional braces. These allow a much faster and less painful treatment, due to the pressure exerted on the wire that gradually moves the teeth.

Classic lingual orthodontics

Classic lingual orthodontics are just as efficient but are not as comfortable for the patient. Since these are thicker than gold braces, patients tend to require more time to adapt to eating and speaking properly.

Advantages of lingual braces

When deciding whether to use lingual braces or any other type of orthodontics, it is important to assess the advantages and disadvantages of each. In order to help you make a more informed decision, we’ve listed some of the pros and cons of lingual braces.

What are the benefits of lingual braces?

Lingual brackets are generally used in invisible orthodontics for patients who prefer to focus on their physical appearance during treatment. So to that end, these are the benefits of lingual braces:

Totally invisible

Lingual braces are imperceptible, unless you look behind the teeth.

Teeth whitening compatible

Possibility of whitening your teeth at the same time as wearing orthodontics.

Recommended for athletes

There is no risk of injury in the event of a blog to the mouth.

Fast and effective

Same as traditional braces, lingual orthodontic is an effective system to correct your teeth. Lingual braces are also a fast method to improve your smile.

What are the disadvantages of lingual braces?

While we have many benefits, we also have the problems with lingual braces that should to be taken into account:

Extended discomfort with lingual braces

As thin and small as they are, lingual braces can make it difficult to pronounce certain words. In addition, they will be in permanent contact with the tongue, which can be uncomfortable during the first few weeks.

Struggling to eat with lingual orthodontics

An unpleasant sensation that you will have to get used to during the first few weeks.

Lingual braces are fragile

Certain foods should be avoided, especially those that tend to stick, such as sweets, chewing gum or hard foods. Avoid biting directly into certain foods so that the appliance does not come off or break; it is better to eat small, pre-cut snacks.

Weekly follow-up with the orthodontist

Very frequent follow-ups are necessary to adjust the appliance.

Complicated dental hygiene

Braces make brushing and flossing difficult, leading to plaque formation around the brackets.

Higher price

Lingual braces are among the most expensive orthodontic treatments on the market.

Lingual braces or clear aligners?

Clear aligners from Impress have several advantages over lingual and traditional orthodontics:

More comfortable

Invisible aligners are undoubtedly the most practical and comfortable. In addition, it’s very easy to get used to them.

More resistant

Thanks to the fact that Impress aligners are removable, the patient has no limitations when it comes to eating and can consume any type of food without the risk of the appliance falling off or breaking.

More convenient

Lingual braces can hurt or cause chafing or sores when in contact with the tongue, whereas transparent aligners have a smooth surface that prevents chafing.

More hygienic

It's easy to maintain good dental hygiene with invisible aligners. Because they can be removed during brushing, patients can brush and floss as usual to fight plaque more effectively.

Follow-ups done your way

Lingual braces require close follow-up with the orthodontist for adjustments. This is not the case with invisible aligners.

Since all sets of aligners are delivered to you at the beginning of treatment, you can change the appliance yourself after receiving your orthodontist's approval in your digital follow-up. Impress also offers you the possibility to follow up in the clinic if you prefer.

Better price

While lingual braces are the most expensive on the market, Impress invisible aligners are among the most economical options. ​​Impress offers several types of all-inclusive treatments with fixed prices, depending on the complexity of the case.

In the first appointment, we’ll carry out the necessary tests, such as a 3D scanner and X-rays. If you want to smile with confidence and have a healthy mouth, you can contact us via phone/WhatsApp at +44 20 3808 1072 or book an appointment through our website.

Discover more about your personalised treatment plan at your initial consultation with Impress. Find the Impress clinic nearest to you!