Best for When
- Discretion is a must
- You need fewer repeat appointments
- You are concerned about comfort
- You may forget to take out removable aligners
For most people, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about fixed braces are the unsightly wires and brackets affixed to the front of teeth. For many, the cosmetic drawbacks of straightening in this way far outweigh the benefits.
Lingual braces offer an alternative by sitting behind the teeth - so they’re great if you want the best possible results without compromising on appearances.
And the advantages of placing braces on the back of teeth go far beyond the purely cosmetic: Choosing lingual braces puts you among the many patients who report improved comfort and an easier time getting used to day-to-day activities.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces work in much the same way as conventional braces - using fixed brackets and wires to apply gentle, steady pressure to straighten the teeth. However, there’s a crucial difference: where traditional braces are attached to the front of the teeth, lingual braces are applied to the back, making them virtually impossible to see. So, if you’re seeking a straighter smile without the cosmetic hassle, lingual braces could be the answer.
Your Lingual Braces Treatment
- Attend a consultation at a ClearSmile clinic and talk to an IAS-trained dentist about whether the lingual braces are right for you. They’ll answer any queries and questions, and can also let you know about other suitable treatment options.
- Your dentist will usually be able to fix your lingual braces in place during a short appointment lasting no more than an hour or two. To do this, your dentist applies a small amount of adhesive to the back of teeth before adjusting wires to the correct tension.
- During your first appointment, your dentist will also give you plenty of information on looking after the lingual braces over the course of treatment.
- You’ll need to visit your dentist periodically to keep an eye on progress. Follow-up appointments for lingual braces are usually every six to eight weeks.
