About lingual braces
Some patients who need braces do not want to use traditional metal braces, especially in terms of aesthetics and comfort, and they are looking for an option that will not be visible from the outside. Recent developments in orthodontic dental treatment have reached a level that meets this desire of patients.
In this blog post, we aim to provide detailed information about lingual braces, also known as internal braces, posterior braces, or hidden braces, which can be used instead of traditional metal braces.
What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces are specially made braces that are placed on the inside of the teeth to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and are not visible from the outside, like traditional braces.
What are lingual braces made of?
Lingual braces are usually made of the following materials:
Stainless steel
These braces are made from stainless steel, which is very durable, strong, and flexible. Stainless steel lingual braces are widely used and are often preferred for long-term treatment.
Titanium
The lingual made of titanium, which has a lower risk of allergic reaction and is lighter than stainless steel, offers a more comfortable use.
Ceramic
In order to match the natural colour of the teeth, it is produced by taking advantage of the properties of ceramics, such as colour options and inability to cause allergies, and offers an ideal option for those with aesthetic concerns.
Polymers
Composite materials are also used in lingual braces. Brackets made of polymers are lightweight and provide a more natural aesthetic appearance.
Gold plating
Gold-plated brackets are produced by plating gold on stainless steel and are rarely preferred.
Braces vs lingual braces
The important differences between treatment with traditional braces and lingual braces are as follows:
Where they are applied to the teeth
Traditional braces, made of metal or ceramic, are placed on the outer surface of the teeth, the front surface, and are visible from the outside during the treatment process.
Lingual braces, also known as lingual braces near me, are placed on the inner surface of the teeth. Since they are placed on the back surface of the teeth, they offer a completely hidden treatment, and the wires and brackets are not visible from the outside.
Application time
Conventional brackets are generally easier and faster to install and adjust. They are also easier to adjust. braces behind teeth are more difficult to fit and adjust because they are placed on the inside of the teeth and usually require more expertise.
The orthodontist can more easily control the teeth by placing traditional braces on their outer surfaces. Traditional braces generally respond more quickly to treatment and yield faster results. The orthodontist may sometimes need to adjust the teeth more carefully when placing braces that go behind the teeth on the inner side, resulting in a slightly longer treatment duration.
Aesthetics and visibility from the outside
Because traditional braces are visible from the outside, they can be bothersome for people with aesthetic concerns. Lingual braces, known as behind-the-teeth braces, offer a perfect aesthetic solution because they are not visible from the outside.
Maintenance
It is easier to eat and clean the teeth with traditional, i.e., external, braces. Brushing is more comfortable because they are on the front of the teeth, but food debris can sometimes accumulate around the brackets. Therefore, they need to be cleaned frequently. Lingual braces, or inner braces, are placed on the inside of the teeth, which can make it more difficult for food debris and plaque to build up. Brushing can also be a little more difficult. Therefore, more careful oral care is required during the treatment of braces that go behind the teeth.
Cost
The price may vary depending on the materials used and the duration of the treatment. However, if we were to generalise, traditional braces are more affordable than lingual braces. On the other hand, lingular braces are more expensive than traditional braces because they are a custom treatment in terms of the materials used and the craftsmanship involved.
Are you a good candidate for lingual braces?
Of course, the answer to this question depends on why lingual brackets are necessary and whether your teeth and general health condition are suitable for lingual bracket treatment. Since they are placed behind the teeth, you might think that lingual brackets are used only for aesthetic purposes. However, just like traditional brackets, lingual brackets also address functional problems and treatments of teeth. If any of the following conditions are present in you and your general health is good, you are a suitable candidate for lingual braces. Let's now discuss the situations where lingual brackets are necessary.
Structural and functional problems in teeth
Crooked teeth and alignment issues with teeth
The misalignment of teeth, meaning the improper arrangement of teeth, can negatively affect chewing and speaking functions. Braces on back of teeth can be effective in correcting mild to moderate misalignments, and they can also be used for more advanced levels of misalignment.
Malocclusion
When the upper and lower jaws do not close properly, a problem called crossbite occurs. This problem can be solved with braces that go behind teeth.
Gaps between teeth
Lingual braces can be used to close excessive gaps between teeth caused by factors such as genetics or tooth structure.
Excessively worn teeth
When teeth are too worn or damaged, a proper bite and tooth alignment cannot be maintained. Lingual braces ensure that teeth are properly aligned and protected.
Jaw Discrepancies
Misalignments between the upper and lower jaws can prevent teeth from closing properly. In such cases, lingual braces can be used to correct jaw alignment.
Chewing problems
Chewing problems caused by misaligned teeth can be corrected with lingual braces by aligning the teeth correctly. Problems caused by misaligned teeth can prevent proper speech. Such situations can be treated with lingual braces, and the tongue can be made to move correctly.
Aesthetic needs
Traditional braces placed on the outside can be aesthetically problematic, especially for adults. Lingual braces are invisible because they are placed on the inner surface of the teeth. This is a perfect solution for people who want to wear braces but have aesthetic concerns.
How do lingual braces work?
To understand how lingual braces work, you need to know what parts they consist of and what their functions and working principles are. Here are the main parts of lingual braces and their functions:
Brackets
Brackets are small metal pieces that are generally made of durable materials such as stainless steel or ceramic and are placed on the inner surface of the teeth. They are the most important part of the bracket system. Lingual brackets are designed to fit perfectly on the inner surface of the teeth, directing the pressure applied to the teeth and helping them move into the correct position, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the teeth.
Archwire
The archwire is a thin metal wire that connects the brackets to each other. The archwire, after being placed in the brackets, applies pressure on the teeth, causing them to move and come into the desired position. To ensure that the teeth move only in a specific direction, the stiffness and flexibility of the archwire can be adjusted.
Elastic ligatures
Elastic ligatures, such as elastic bands or O-rings, are used to attach the arch wire to the brackets.These rings tightly attach the archwire to the brackets and direct the pressure the wire applies to the teeth.Elastic ligatures can affect the speed and direction of tooth movement. Sometimes they are placed tighter, sometimes looser, to adjust the pressure force.
Bands
Bands are metal rings that are generally used on the back teeth and are placed on the back surfaces of the teeth.Bands, especially in larger teeth like molars, ensure that brackets stay securely in place during special tooth movements or when extra pressure is needed.
Adhesives
To ensure the brackets are fixed to the inner surface of the teeth, special dental adhesives or bonding materials are used as bracket bonding devices. Brackets placed on the inner surface of the teeth are fixed with an appropriate orthodontic adhesive. This adhesive ensures that the brackets fit perfectly on the tooth and helps effectively transmit the pressure applied to the teeth.
Ligature ties
Ligature ties are metal or elastic ties that are inserted into the archwire and allow the archwire to be fixed to the brackets, similar to elastic ligatures. Clamps can be metal or elastic.
How are lingual brackets placed on teeth?
Before the placement of lingual brackets, the orthodontist conducts a comprehensive examination to assess the patient's oral and dental structure and performs various radiological imaging methods for some tests.If the patient is suitable for the lingual bracket application, the following steps are taken:
Stages of lingual bracket placement
Preparation of the teeth
Before the lingual bracket is inserted, the teeth must be cleaned to ensure better adhesion of the brackets to the teeth. This cleaning is done with a special acidic solution, which roughens the enamel.
Placement of lingual brackets
Orthodontic lingual brackets, which are usually digitally planned and specially designed for each patient, are individually bonded to the inner surface of the teeth. After the brackets are placed, a short period of time is waited for them to be fixed.
Attaching the orthodontic wire
A special wire is inserted into the attachment points on the lingual brackets, and fastening mechanisms are attached to hold the wire in place.
Checks and adjustments
Usually a check-up is performed every 4-6 weeks. In these controls, the tension of the wire is adjusted and the progress of the teeth is monitored.
Bottom braces
Braces for bottom teeth are used for alignment problems in the lower teeth. Usually, the lower teeth are moved less, but in some cases, special adjustments for the lower teeth may be required.
How long do lingual braces take?
Lingual braces may generally require a longer treatment than conventional braces, but the duration of treatment is different for each individual and may vary depending on the individual tooth structure, treatment goals, and the speed at which the teeth move. The duration of treatment usually ranges from 18 months to 3 years.
What are the pros and cons of lingual braces?
Pros
- Because they are placed on the back surface of the teeth, they are not visible from the outside. This is an ideal option for people with aesthetic concerns. No wires or brackets are visible during a smile.
- Lingual braces are custom-made according to each patient's tooth structure. This makes the treatment process more efficient and effective.
- Compared to traditional braces, an invisible treatment process is psychologically more relaxing and increases the patient's self-confidence.
- In cases where the teeth need to move precisely, lingual braces are highly effective and can be preferred for molars and other special cases.
Cons
- Lingual braces may cause discomfort and stinging sensations in the tongue because they are placed on the inner surface of the teeth. This may be more pronounced in the first few weeks of the treatment process, but the patient relaxes when the tongue gets used to it. The brackets being close to the tongue may cause some difficulty while eating, especially at first.
- Since lingual braces are placed on the inner surface of the teeth and require more fine-tuning in terms of directing the movement of the teeth, the treatment time is longer than traditional braces.
- The tongue's range of movement may be limited when speaking or eating. However, this usually decreases within a few weeks, and the tongue gets used to the brackets.
- Lingual braces may be more expensive than conventional external braces due to the special design and more complex application process.
Do lingual braces affect your speech?
The effects of lingual braces on speech vary from person to person. It is more pronounced in some people and less pronounced in others. Lingual braces can make speech difficult by limiting the movement of the tongue, and patients may have difficulty pronouncing some letters. As the tongue gets used to the braces, the speech problem gradually decreases. This process usually takes 1-2 weeks
What can and can't you eat with lingual braces?
It is best to eat soft foods such as soups and pasta immediately after lingual braces are placed. Avoid eating hard foods such as crispy rolls, chips, sweets, and boiled sweets. It is useful to cut some foods into pieces first to avoid straining your teeth.Avoid hard foods during the treatment period, and you will also need to avoid habits such as chewing pencils or biting your nails.
Are lingual braces painful?
Mild pain is usually related to the realignment of the teeth, which is a natural part of the treatment. When the teeth begin to move, the brackets put pressure on the teeth, which can cause mild pain and tingling for a few days. This type of pain is seen at every stage of the orthodontic treatment process, especially in the first weeks of treatment or during wire changes.
What is a social-lingual brace?
Social lingual braces refer to braces used to move the front six to eight teeth in the front teeth only. They are used only for cosmetic teeth straightening needs and to close and treat slight overcrowding and small gaps in the front teeth. The reason why it is called social lingual is because these braces offer a solution that will allow these braces to be used in social interactions without being noticed by anyone.
Invisalign vs lingual braces
We have prepared a table with the differences between Invisalign and lingual braces for you.
| Features | Invisalign | Lingual Braces |
| Treatment method, pain and discomfort | They are transparent, removable plaques and may be inadequate in complicated cases. invisaligns are usually less painful; there may be a slight feeling of pressure. | Braces placed behind the teeth may require more complex and precise adjustments, which can lengthen the treatment process. Initially, there may be more pain and discomfort because the brackets put pressure on your tongue. |
| Aesthetics, comfort and social impact | Completely invisible, hardly noticeable from the outside. More comfortable; eating and brushing are easy because it is removable. There is usually no major effect on the language, but there may be an adjustment period. It is advantageous in social interaction and increases self-confidence because it is invisible. | It is invisible, but because it is behind the tongue, it can be uncomfortable at the beginning and requires a period of acclimatisation. It has a greater effect on the tongue and can make speech temporarily difficult. Advantageous in social interaction; not recognisable from the outside because it is invisible. |
| Duration of treatment | It can usually be faster, but in complicated cases it can take a long time. | It can often take longer because it is necessary to control the movement of the teeth more precisely |
| Price | It can often be expensive | It can often be more expensive because the custom design and placement are more complex |
| Wearability and cleanliness | Removable; can be removed and cleaned while eating or brushing teeth | It cannot be removed; it is permanently attached, which can create difficulties in terms of comfort. Brushing and flossing is more difficult because it is located on the back surface of the teeth. |
| Maintenance | Requires less maintenance | Requires regular and more maintenance |
| Longevity | Shorter lasting | Longer lasting |
Where can you get lingual braces Turkey?
There are many clinics that apply lingual braces. One of these clinics is Acardent in Antalya. For lingual braces application, you can contact our clinic, which provides quality service with its expert and experienced dentists, orthodontists, and staff, at any time.
How much do lingual braces cost in Antalya, Turkey?
The prices of lingual braces in Turkey can also vary from clinic to clinic, from city to city, and depending on the complexity of the treatment process and the quality of the material used. However, in general, the average price of lingual braces in Turkey can vary between €1,300 and €2,700. It is cheaper than in Europe (€3,000-€9,000). You can contact Acardent to get the most accurate and up-to-date price information.
FAQ
Is flossing easier with clear aligners compared to lingual braces?
Yes, flossing is much easier as the clear aligners are removable and access to the teeth is much more comfortable. In contrast, lingual braces can be more difficult to floss because they are placed behind the teeth.
Do lingual braces cause more lisp compared to invisalign aligners?
Since lingual braces are placed at the back of the teeth, they may affect the movement of the tongue more, which may cause a more pronounced lisp. However, it decreases over time as the tongue gets used to the brackets. Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, affect the natural movement of the tongue less and are much less likely to cause lisp.
Do ceramic braces work the same as lingual braces?
Both braces offer a good alternative for people with visibility concerns and work in the same way. Ceramic braces are less noticeable in terms of visibility, but they still have a certain visibility because they are located in the front of the teeth. Lingual braces are completely invisible.
What are the types of braces that are glued to the back of the teeth?
Braces that are bonded to the back of the teeth are called lingual braces. Unlike other types of braces, lingual braces remain completely hidden, making them a popular option for people who have aesthetic concerns during treatment.
Are lingual braces as effective as Invisalign treatment?
Lingual braces can be very effective, especially in complex cases and in terms of being able to correct all dental problems. Invisalign is more suitable for mild to moderate cases and is generally more advantageous in terms of comfort. Which treatment method is more effective depends on the condition of the patient's teeth and personal preference.
If there is no complex problem with the teeth, Invisalign may be a more practical and comfortable option. However, if a more serious correction is required or an invisible treatment is desired, lingual braces may be preferred.
What is a hybrid lingual treatment?
Hybrid lingual treatment is a treatment that combines lingual braces with other orthodontic treatment methods, such as traditional metal braces or clear aligners. If a patient wants an invisible solution for the front teeth but prefers faster results for the back teeth, hybrid treatment may be an ideal option.