Yes, it is possible to get braces placed behind your teeth, and this is a common choice in modern orthodontics for patients seeking a discreet treatment option. The technical name for this specialized treatment is lingual braces, and they offer an effective way to straighten teeth while keeping the orthodontic hardware hidden from public view. This approach has become a popular alternative to traditional braces for many adults and appearance-conscious teenagers.
What Are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are fixed orthodontic appliances that function similarly to conventional braces, using brackets and wires to apply gentle pressure and move teeth into proper alignment. The defining difference lies in their placement: the brackets are bonded to the back, or lingual, surface of the teeth, the side facing the tongue. In contrast, traditional braces are placed on the front, or buccal, side of the teeth, where they are easily visible.
The unique contours of the tongue-side surface necessitate a high degree of customization. Brackets and wires are typically custom-made using advanced digital scanning and Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. This personalized fabrication ensures a precise fit to the patient’s unique anatomy, helping the appliance work effectively and minimizing bulkiness.
The Primary Aesthetic Benefit
The main driver for choosing this treatment is the virtually invisible nature of the appliance. Because the brackets and wires are hidden on the posterior side of the teeth, they are not noticeable when a person smiles or speaks. This level of discretion makes lingual braces a highly appealing option for individuals who are self-conscious about the appearance of traditional metal braces.
The ability to undergo comprehensive tooth alignment without changing one’s outward appearance is particularly valuable for adults and professionals. For those in public-facing roles, the treatment allows them to maintain a natural look throughout the process. This aesthetic advantage provides a confidence boost, allowing patients to focus on the eventual results.
Unique Practical Considerations
Choosing lingual braces involves several practical trade-offs that differ significantly from wearing front-facing appliances. One common initial adjustment is a temporary change in speech, which often manifests as a slight lisp. This occurs because the tongue, which is essential for forming certain sounds, interacts directly with the newly placed brackets and wires.
Patients generally need a period of adaptation, but speech issues typically decrease as the tongue adjusts to the presence of the hardware. Comfort can also be a challenge, as the constant contact with the appliance can cause temporary irritation or soreness to the tongue. Orthodontists may recommend dental wax to cover rough spots and help ease the initial discomfort.
Maintaining oral hygiene is more complicated due to the hidden placement of the braces. Brushing and flossing the back surfaces require more effort, as food particles and plaque can easily accumulate around the brackets. Specialized tools, such as floss threaders or water flossers, are highly recommended to effectively clean these difficult-to-reach areas and prevent issues like gum inflammation or tooth decay.
Finally, the cost of lingual braces is generally higher than traditional metal or ceramic braces. This increased expense is primarily due to the necessary customization of the brackets and the specialized training and extended chair time required for installation and adjustments. Costs can be significantly higher, sometimes up to twice as much as conventional braces.
Determining Candidate Suitability
Not everyone who desires lingual braces is a suitable candidate, as specific clinical requirements must be met. Patients with severe malocclusions, such as extreme tooth rotations or a deep overbite, may find lingual application difficult or less effective. A severe bite problem, for instance, could lead to the lower teeth constantly hitting and dislodging the upper brackets.
Tooth size and shape are also factors in determining eligibility. Patients with very small teeth may not have enough surface area on the lingual side to securely bond the brackets, compromising stability. Furthermore, the treatment requires a healthy periodontal condition, meaning the gums and supporting tissues must be free of disease.
The expertise of the orthodontist is another limiting factor. Lingual orthodontics requires specialized training and techniques that differ from standard procedures. As a result, fewer orthodontists offer this treatment option, making it important to find a provider with extensive experience.