The path to a straighter smile often involves choosing between various orthodontic appliances designed to correct malocclusions, or misalignments of the teeth and bite. A common issue is the overbite, where the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth excessively. Lingual braces offer a discreet way to address this and other alignment problems, as they are positioned behind the teeth, hidden from view.
What Are Lingual Braces and How Do They Work
Lingual braces represent an advanced fixed orthodontic system, functioning on the same principles as traditional braces but with a unique placement. Instead of being bonded to the visible, outer surface of the teeth, the brackets and wires are attached to the inner, tongue-side surface, which is referred to as the lingual surface. This placement makes the appliance nearly invisible when a person smiles or speaks, which is their primary appeal for adults.
The process requires highly personalized components. An orthodontist takes precise digital scans or impressions of the teeth to manufacture custom-made brackets. Because the inner surface is less uniform than the outer surface, this customization ensures an accurate fit and maximizes comfort. The customized brackets are connected by a thin archwire that applies gentle, consistent pressure to guide the teeth into their desired positions. Like traditional braces, the orthodontist periodically adjusts this wire to facilitate gradual, controlled movement necessary for alignment and bite correction.
Are Lingual Braces Effective for Correcting an Overbite
Lingual braces are effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic problems, including the correction of an overbite. The mechanics of fixed appliances allow the orthodontist to exert precise control over the movement of the entire tooth, including the root. This control is important for correcting a bite issue, which often requires complex vertical and horizontal movements, such as intrusion and retraction of the upper front teeth.
The suitability of lingual braces depends on the severity of the malocclusion. For mild to moderate overbites, the lingual system can perform the necessary adjustments as efficiently as a traditional system. Some practitioners even find them advantageous for deep bites, as the placement behind the teeth can facilitate the intrusive movements needed to open the bite.
In cases of a severe or deep overbite, the biomechanical limitations of the lingual surface may become a factor. The reduced space between the upper and lower teeth can place excessive pressure on the brackets, potentially causing them to detach and lengthening the treatment time. The installation and adjustment process demands a high level of specialized skill and precision due to limited visibility and proximity to the tongue. Consultation with an orthodontist experienced in lingual techniques is necessary to determine if the appliance is appropriate for a specific degree of overbite.
Practical Considerations and Alternatives
Lingual braces involve several practical considerations beyond their aesthetic advantage. A common challenge is maintaining adequate oral hygiene, as the brackets and wires are positioned in a difficult-to-see area. Patients must commit to diligent brushing and specialized flossing techniques to thoroughly clean around the hardware and prevent plaque buildup.
Patients experience an adjustment period following the initial placement of the braces. Because the brackets sit on the lingual surface, they may cause temporary irritation to the tongue and interfere with speech, potentially causing a slight lisp. This resolves as the tongue adapts to the appliance within the first few weeks of treatment. Due to the complexity of the custom design and the specialized training required, lingual braces are more expensive than traditional braces.
When lingual braces are not the optimal choice for overbite correction, other options are available. Traditional metal or ceramic braces are versatile and reliable for treating all levels of complexity, often at a lower cost. Clear aligners are another discreet alternative, but they are removable and often less effective than fixed braces for complex movements, especially those involving significant root movement needed for bite correction.