Lingual Orthodontics (from inside and back of teeth)

Lingual braces are attached to the back of teeth and hence they are invisible. The name of these braces is taken from a latin word -Lingua- that means tongue. This method is suitable specially for adults who tend to improve the appearance and operation of teeth but don’t want others to know about this treatment. However, these braces are usually recommended for minor tooth movement.

When lingual orthodontic introduced 20 years ago, some patients and clinicians assumed it as a unique beauty system and it led to high expectations. Nonetheless, reports based on disappointing results and high costs turned many previous excitements to disappointment and willing to the system gradually decreased. So that by the late 1980s the number of clinicians who were using this technique declined abruptly and only a handful of orthodontists still believed in the potential of this method.

As expected, cost of lingual braces is more than traditional metal braces. Treatment by this method costs 1500-2000$ more than conventional braces. One of the important factors is the price of materials used in lingual system. Materials used for the construction of conventional metal braces are produced more commonly so that it will be less expensive.

Using lingual braces is an attractive solution in terms of beauty in orthodontics. These braces are designed specifically to attach to the back of teeth instead of the outer surfaces of the teeth and are invisible when you smile. In fact nobody sees these braces unless looks carefully inside of your mouth. Beside this advantage, there are no other medical and clinical proof to use lingual braces instead of conventional braces.

Should not expect your family dentist to be able to use this system for you. Even orthodontists should take specialized courses to treat their patient by this method. Not every orthodontist propose this health choice. Placement of lingual braces on the back of teeth can cause serious discomfort for the patients. Meanwhile, attaching the braces can be a serious challenge for orthodontists, because patients should keep their head backward as far as possible so the clinician can make more accurate bonding. Orthodontists also should bend their heads over this action.
Lingual braces will be placed closer together than conventional braces because arch perimeter is smaller inside the mouth compared to the outer surface of the teeth. This makes it more difficult to bond braces and adjust in the next appointments. In addition, lingual braces are more uncomfortable for patient’s tongue than conventional braces. Also because of Complex and tedious procedure of lingual method than ceramic braces that are more expensive than conventional metal braces, orthodontists ask for more money clearly.