Yes, it is possible to get braces on the inside of your teeth, a treatment known as lingual orthodontics. These appliances are placed on the lingual, or tongue-side, surface of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the outside. Lingual braces work by applying continuous, gentle pressure to gradually shift the teeth into the desired alignment. This discreet nature makes them popular among adults and professionals who are concerned about the visibility of traditional metal brackets.
Understanding Lingual Braces
Lingual braces function similarly to conventional braces, using brackets and archwires. However, they employ specialized technology for their unique placement. Unlike brackets used on the front of the teeth, lingual brackets are custom-made to fit the precise contours of the inner surface of each individual tooth. This perfect fit is required for comfort and effective movement.
The brackets are often manufactured using advanced Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, based on accurate 3D scans of the patient’s mouth. The archwires used are also often custom-bent to ensure the exact forces are applied in the specific directions needed for correction. This meticulous, individualized design allows lingual braces to effectively correct a wide range of alignment issues.
Determining Patient Suitability
Deciding if lingual braces are appropriate begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s dental anatomy and the complexity of the malocclusion. While effective for many orthodontic issues, certain anatomical limitations can make the treatment more challenging. For instance, individuals with very small teeth or a small jaw may not have enough surface area on the back of their teeth to securely bond the brackets.
A deep overbite, where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth, is another factor that requires careful assessment. In such cases, the lower teeth can repeatedly strike the upper lingual brackets.
The expertise of the orthodontist is also a significant consideration. The placement, adjustment, and maintenance of lingual braces are technically demanding and require specialized training.
Practical Considerations and Daily Life Adjustments
Speech and Discomfort
Choosing lingual braces involves several adjustments to daily routines. One of the most common initial challenges is the temporary impact on speech, as the tongue must adapt to the reduced space and new surface texture. This speech alteration typically resolves within a few days to a few weeks.
Initial discomfort and soreness are also common as the soft tissues of the mouth, particularly the tongue, adapt to the new appliance. The brackets can rub against the underside of the tongue, causing irritation.
Oral Hygiene and Diet
Maintaining oral hygiene requires extra diligence because the brackets are harder to see and reach, making it easier for food particles and plaque to accumulate. Patients must often use specialized tools, such as floss threaders, interspace brushes, or a water flosser, to effectively clean around the brackets and wires after every meal.
Dietary modifications are also necessary, as hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can damage the brackets or wires. Patients are generally advised to cut food into smaller pieces and avoid biting directly into items like apples or crusty bread.
The Orthodontic Treatment Journey
The process of receiving lingual braces begins with an initial consultation, where the orthodontist assesses the patient’s bite and takes detailed records. This involves capturing precise 3D scans of the teeth and jaw structure. These digital impressions are then used to create a virtual setup of the desired final tooth position.
The customized brackets and archwires are then fabricated in a specialized lab. Once the appliance is ready, the orthodontist uses an indirect bonding technique to precisely transfer and cement all the brackets onto the lingual surfaces.
Following the bonding appointment, the patient returns for regular adjustment visits, typically every six to eight weeks. After the treatment phase is complete and the teeth are correctly aligned, the braces are removed, and a retainer is fitted to maintain the new, corrected position of the teeth.