How are the lingual braces fitted?

Lingual Braces – Some Important Considerations

Lingual braces are functionally the same as any other ordinary braces, but for the fact that outsiders will not realize you have them worn as because nothing is visible since they are fitted on the back side (inner side) of the teeth.

Braces are recommended when there are gaps between teeth, overlapping teeth, over crowding of teeth and when there are crooked or rotated teeth.

Under these situations an orthodontist treats you using any of the orthodontic appliances. While metal braces are commonest type, the lingual braces are a 80s product and these are recommended particularly for those with specific bite problems including the deep vertical overbite, and too much crowded teeth conditions. It is also recommended for teens and adults who do not want to expose their orthodontic history to the outside world, however, these are not ideal for children with retained milk teeth.

How are the lingual braces fitted?
The brackets (metal pieces) of lingual braces are attached on to rear side of teeth and the arch wire will join these brackets in such a way that the orthodontist can maneuver to guide teeth to the desired direction. Quite contrary to the conventional metal  braces, the lingual braces are tailor made and in fact the brackets are made separately for each of the tooth. The orthodontist first takes the impression of the teeth in a mold. Bracket for each of the tooth is then made and all brackets are put in an applicator where they stay in the desired alignment.
The specialist then applies dental glue or cement and secures the bracket behind every tooth and arch wire is tied to join these brackets and it pulls the teeth as we see in any other brace functioning.

Who are not candidates for Lingual braces?
Lingual braces are not recommended for those who have very small or small anterior lower teeth and for those who’ve had their milk teeth retained.
Discomfort with the lingual braces is more because the lingual surface is covered with brackets. There is tongue splitting as well as swallowing difficulty during initial days.
Additionally, cleaning is a major concern and complaint from lingual brace wearers. Because most of the tooth surface that is exposed to tongue is covered in brackets (in the first place the rear surface of tooth is not visible and difficult to clean even without braces) cleaning becomes a problem and an expert cleaning is recommended at least once a month.
Since lingual braces are made separately for each person, it is but natural that these will be expensive than other types of braces. However, a solution for this is to go in for lingual braces for upper teeth (to correct vertical overbite) and inexpensive braces for the lower teeth (which are not exposed much).
There maybe initial difficulty with speech (but reading aloud should overcome the speech difficulty faster).
Sometimes the brackets get unsecured but still hang on to the arch wire; sometimes may pierce the tongue and result in a painful condition. Your orthodontist can get back the unsecured bracket in place once again.

After the initial 3-4 weeks’ time the lingual braces will get adjusted to your mouth and results will be shown within 1-3 years. However, make sure you visit an orthodontist who’s had experience with lingual braces and not ordinary metal braces.