Lingual Braces
Lingual braces offer a discreet way to straighten teeth using the same proven mechanics as traditional braces, but with the brackets placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth. At Dr. Doug Orthodontics, lingual braces are a specialized option for patients who want effective orthodontic treatment without visible appliances.
What Are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces function like traditional braces, using brackets and wires to move teeth into proper alignment. The key difference is placement. Instead of being attached to the front of the teeth, lingual braces are bonded to the back surfaces, making them virtually invisible when you smile.
Each set of lingual braces is custom-designed to fit the unique shape of your teeth, allowing for precise and controlled tooth movement.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces may be a good option for patients who:
- Want discreet orthodontic treatment with no visible braces
- Prefer a hidden solution for professional or social reasons
- Are adults or teens seeking effective tooth movement without front-facing brackets
Lingual braces may not be ideal for every case. Certain bite concerns, tooth shapes, or jaw alignment issues may be better treated with other orthodontic options. Dr. Doug will evaluate your smile to determine whether lingual braces are the right fit for your needs.
How Do Lingual Braces Compare to Traditional Braces?
Lingual braces and traditional braces use similar orthodontic principles and are both effective at correcting crowding, spacing, and bite problems. The main difference is visibility.
Traditional braces are attached to the front of the teeth and are visible when smiling. Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth, offering a more discreet appearance while still providing reliable tooth movement.
Are Lingual Braces Comfortable?
Lingual braces require an adjustment period, particularly for the tongue. Some patients experience temporary irritation or changes in speech during the first few weeks. As the mouth adapts, these issues typically improve.
Because lingual braces are customized, they are designed to minimize discomfort while maintaining effective treatment.
How Long Does Treatment With Lingual Braces Take?
Treatment time with lingual braces is similar to other orthodontic options and depends on the complexity of your case. Most patients complete treatment within a timeframe comparable to traditional braces.
Dr. Doug will review your expected orthodontic treatment timeline during your consultation.
How Are Lingual Braces Placed?
At Dr. Doug Orthodontics, advanced digital planning is used to design and place lingual braces with precision. This allows brackets to be positioned accurately, supporting efficient tooth movement and predictable results.
Why Choose Lingual Braces at Dr. Doug Orthodontics?
Lingual braces require advanced training and experience to plan and manage effectively. Dr. Doug offers this specialized option for patients seeking discreet treatment without compromising results.
Currently, we use a custom lingual brace system called INSMILE. Dr. Doug feels it is the most advanced and predictable system available. While most orthodontists in the US do not provide any lingual braces as a treatment option, Dr. Doug has been utilizing the INSMILE system since 2018 (when it was firstintroducedd as INBRACE).
Dr. Doug was an early adopter and one of the few at that time in NY to offer this type of treatment. He also worked closely with the engineers and doctors who created the system to help improve and advance the system and software. This unique system allows Dr. Doug to plan his patients’ treatment virtually and then have custom “Smart-wires” fabricated, which are designed to perform all the movements designed in the digital plan.
Your perfect alignment is actually built into the custom “Smart-wire”. Because of the advanced custom wires and the alloy they are made out of, which allows them to act over long periods of time, traditional adjustment visits for your treatment are at 8-12 week intervals, instead of our typical 6-8 with traditional appliances. Below are a few of our actual patient cases treated with INSMILE.
During your orthodontist consultation, Dr. Doug will explain all available teeth straightening options and help you decide which approach best fits your goals and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lingual braces often raise unique questions. These FAQs help patients understand what to expect before starting treatment.
Are Lingual Braces Truly Invisible?
Lingual braces are placed on the back of the teeth, making them very difficult to see during normal conversation or smiling.
Do Lingual Braces Affect Speech?
Some patients notice minor speech changes at first, but this usually improves as the tongue adjusts within a few weeks.
Are Lingual Braces Harder to Clean?
Lingual braces require careful brushing and flossing, but with proper instruction and tools, most patients maintain good oral hygiene successfully.
Are Lingual Braces More Expensive Than Traditional Braces?
Lingual braces may have a higher cost due to their custom design and specialized placement. Dr. Doug will review fees and payment options during your consultation.
Can Lingual Braces Treat Complex Bite Problems?
Lingual braces can correct many alignment and bite issues, but not every case is suitable. Dr. Doug will determine if lingual braces are appropriate for your orthodontic needs.