Lingual braces

Name: Neyo Orthodontics
Telephone: 01444 523143

At Neyo Orthodontics, we are WIN-certified lingual appliance orthodontists. This means we are exceptionally skilled at placing incognito braces that sit behind your teeth.

What are lingual braces?

Lingual braces work just like regular fixed metal braces, except they are attached to the back of your teeth instead of the front. That means they are completely hidden from view when you smile.

How long do lingual braces take?

Lingual braces usually take around 12-18 months to straighten:

Generally misaligned teeth
Crooked or crowded teeth
Overbites and underbites
Gaps between teeth
Unbalanced bites

Lingual braces cost

Lingual braces are generally not available through the NHS, due to their higher cost compared to traditional metal braces. Like other cosmetic treatments such as Invisalign^® clear aligners, they are considered private treatment options and are not typically funded through public healthcare.

As a result, lingual braces are offered exclusively by private orthodontic practices, with prices ranging between £4,000 and £10,000, and most patients investing around £5,000 or more depending on the complexity of their case.

What makes lingual braces more expensive is the advanced level of customisation involved. Each bracket is tailored to fit the unique shape of your teeth using specialised technology and materials.

Additionally, treatment must be carried out by an experienced Specialist Orthodontist, as placing and adjusting braces on the back surfaces of the teeth requires significant precision and expertise.

Benefits of lingual braces

Truly invisible: Placed on the back of your teeth, lingual braces are completely hidden from view – ideal for those who want to straighten their smile discreetly.

Versatile: From crowding and spacing to more complex bite problems, lingual braces are highly effective at correcting a broad spectrum of orthodontic concerns.

Custom-fit: Each bracket is individually tailored to the shape of your teeth, helping to reduce irritation and improve overall comfort during treatment.

Precise: Lingual braces provide exceptional control over how teeth move, often delivering more accurate results than clear aligners in complex cases.

Help prevent white spots: Because they’re placed behind the teeth, lingual braces may lower the risk of visible white spots – often seen with front-facing braces.

Disadvantages of lingual braces

Harder to clean:

Because they’re fitted to the back surfaces of the teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene can be more challenging and may require extra care and precision.

Initial discomfort:

The positioning of the braces near the tongue can cause mild irritation or speech changes during the first few weeks, though this typically improves as you adjust.

More frequent adjustments:

Lingual braces often require slightly more frequent check-ups and adjustments due to the complexity of their placement and design.

Higher cost:

Higher cost: As a fully customised treatment that uses specialised equipment and advanced techniques, lingual braces tend to be more expensive than traditional or clear braces.

Lingual braces vs clear aligners

If you’ve been searching for an inconspicuous way to straighten your teeth, then clear aligners and lingual braces certainly fit the criteria. However, they’re invisible in different ways.

Clear aligners will be slightly more noticeable, but more smooth and comfortable.

Ultimately, the best orthodontic option depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and level of commitment. Most treatments take anywhere from six months to a year, and staying consistent is key to achieving great results.

If you think wearing aligners for 22 hours a day might be difficult, fixed braces could be more suitable, as they don’t rely on patient compliance.

Consider factors such as your daily routine, career and hobbies when deciding. Fixed braces may require more in-person visits for adjustments, which could mean taking time off work. In contrast, Invisalign^® treatment offers more flexibility and fewer appointments, giving you greater independence throughout your treatment.