Lingual braces

Lingual braces are a completely unique method of straightening teeth as they involve braces being fitted to the back of the teeth instead of the front. This provides an ideal solution for people who dislike the look of wearing a brace but want to improve the way their teeth look. Lingual braces are not visible to other people unless the person wearing them opens their mouth wide.

How are the braces fitted?

The procedure to fit the braces is quite complex and takes longer than conventional braces; this is mainly due to the fact that the backs of the teeth are all different shapes so the braces have to be specially made to fit each individual patients teeth. The dentist makes a mould of the teeth and then sends it away to a dental lab so that the brace can be made up; this is then returned to the dentist and the brace is fitted. The brackets are glued to the back of the teeth and then the wire is fixed to the brackets. This is a difficult procedure which requires special training.

Are lingual braces painful?

Lingual braces can take a long time to get used to and they may feel very strange at first; some patients may experience irritation for a short period of time after the braces are first fitted but this should wear off after a while.

Will lingual braces change the way I talk and eat?

At first eating and talking may be affected by the wearing lingual braces and it may feel strange when you swallow; however, after a while your speech should return to normal and you should not feel any pain or discomfort when eating.

Are lingual braces widely available?

Orthodontists require special training to learn to fit lingual braces so this treatment is not as widely available as other orthodontic treatments; you should ask your dentist or search online to find out which dentists near you offer this service.

How long does treatment take?

Lingual braces work in exactly the same way as traditional fixed braces so the treatment time will be similar; every patient is different so the exact duration of the treatment will vary. Most people wear braces for between 12 and 36 months, depending on the complexity of the orthodontic problems.

Are lingual braces expensive?

Lingual braces are more expensive than conventional braces; this is mainly because the braces are more difficult to fix and the dentist requires additional training to be able to offer the service. Patients should expect to pay in the region of £3000 to £5000 but it is best to discuss the cost of the treatment with your dentist during the initial consultation. Dentists fees vary considerably according to their level of expertise and the location of the dental practice.

Are lingual braces harder to keep clean?

Lingual braces tend to trap food and bacteria more than conventional braces because they are attached to the back of the teeth, where the surfaces of the teeth are less even and harder to brush. Dentists usually recommend that patients with lingual braces visit the hygienist regularly to have their teeth thoroughly cleaned.

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