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  3. Lingual Braces

Lingual Braces

Unlike traditional orthodontic braces that are placed on the front sides of teeth, lingual braces are placed on the back sides of the teeth next to the tongue. This provides the same smile-correcting effects for the patient without the self-consciousnesses associated with traditional metal braces. Treatment typically lasts 18-36 months, depending on the patient’s specific needs. The average cost of lingual braces is $5,000-$13,000.

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The Skinny

Lingual Braces
avg. recovery
0 days
permanence
Is permanent
application
Temporary Wearable Device
surgical
No
cost
$5000 - $13000

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 04.09.2020

The first step to placing lingual braces involves the orthodontist taking impressions of the teeth. The impressions will be sent to a dental lab where customized brackets will be manufactured. This normally takes about 6 weeks. Once the doctor receives the brackets from the lab, the patient returns for placement. The placement of lingual braces involves cleaning and polishing the teeth, air drying them, and then applying a nourishing conditioner. Then, the orthodontist will use a strong dental cement to affix the brackets to the back sides of the patient’s teeth. Then, archwires, hooks, rubber bands, and other devices will be placed on the brackets as needed to begin the smile correction process. Lingual brackets typically have to be worn for 18-36 months, depending on the severity of correction needed. The placement process typically takes less than an hour, does not require anesthesia, and costs between $5,000-$13,000 on average. Some popular brands are Suresmile Lingual QT, In-Ovation, STb Light Lingual System, Incognito, and iBraces.

The goal of lingual braces is to improve a number of dental imperfections such as crowding, too much space between teeth, overbite, crossbite, openbite, and overjet.

Concerns

Lingual Braces addresses concerns such as:

What to Expect

Lingual braces are placed on the back sides of the teeth next to the tongue. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after lingual braces.

Before Treatment

  • X-rays, photos, and impressions will be made
  • Some permanent teeth may be removed
  • Separators may be placed between molars

During Treatment

  • Teeth will be cleaned and polished
  • Conditioner applied to teeth to prepare for bonding agent
  • Cement is used to affix the brackets on the back of the teeth
  • Excess cement is removed
  • High-intensity light is used to cure the brackets
  • Archwire, hook, and bands are placed as needed to realign the teeth

Recovery Notes

Once the braces are secured, there is no recovery process needed. The teeth and gums may feel sore or sensitive, however, discomfort will diminish with time. Use provided dental wax to cover any irritating wires or brackets that may cause pain. OTC medications may be used as needed to alleviate discomfort.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for lingual braces are those whose teeth are in good general health who wish to improve dental imperfections such as crowding, too much space between teeth, crossbite, openbite, and overjet.

Not Recommended For

Lingual braces are not recommended for patients with a deep overbite. This is because the overbite might bear too much pressure on the brackets and cause them to fall off easily.

Side Effects

Side effects from lingual braces may include tooth and jaw pain, irritation, and discomfort, although these symptoms are typically mild.

Pros

  • do not break
  • less visible
  • high patient compliance

Cons

  • more expensive
  • not invisible
  • lisp
  • food restrictions

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