Lingual Orthodontics

Types of Orthodontic Devices

Orthodontic equipment consists of two major types of devices:

• Fixed orthodontics:
  • Brackets and wires
  • Lingual orthodontics (a subset of fixed orthodontics)
  • Palatal expanders
  • Space maintainers
• Removable orthodontics:
  • Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign)
  • Retainers
  • Functional appliances
  • Headgear

The patient’s condition and treatment requirements significantly affect the dentist’s equipment choice. Some people prefer ceramic or transparent brackets because they blend in better with their teeth, making their smile more aesthetically pleasing.

Moreover, some patients are curious about the alternative of an orthodontic appliance being invisible to others. For example, invisible lingual orthodontics are an option.

Lingual Braces in Orthodontics

In lingual orthodontics, brackets and orthodontic wires are placed behind the teeth. This method maintains the patient’s appearance, and most people who are concerned about their smile’s beauty turn to this option.

It is effective for correcting minor to moderate dental misalignments but cannot treat severe cases such as extreme crowding.

Benefits of Lingual Orthodontics

• Discreetness: This method’s most important advantage is that the orthodontic apparatus is not observed. Since the braces are placed behind the teeth, the smile’s appearance does not change.
• Suitable for Social People: This method is ideal for people who are in contact with others and do not want their orthodontic apparatus to be seen.
• Preserves Smile Aesthetics: Unlike metal or ceramic braces, which may alter the appearance of a smile, lingual orthodontics maintains a natural look.
• Mouth Protection
  Standard braces can cause scratches and sores on the inside of the patient’s cheeks and lips, especially in the early stages of treatment, when the mouth is not used to brackets and wires.
  However, it is common for patients to experience discomfort. With lingual braces, the cheeks and lips are not irritated or sore like traditional braces.
  So, there isn’t much to worry about with the cheeks and lips, although the tongue may sometimes be irritated.

Disadvantages of Lingual Orthodontics

• Higher cost: This method is more expensive due to the additional expertise required for installation and maintenance.
• Further care: Lingual orthodontics requires more care and maintenance, as the doctor’s access to the device is more limited, and any adjustment requires more precision.
• Discomfort: Because the device is placed inside the mouth, some people may feel more discomfort or pressure in the area of the gums and tongue.

Some people find lingual braces uncomfortable while talking and eating because the wires cause friction on the tongue.

Difference Between Lingual Orthodontics and Other Methods

Lingual orthodontics differs from other methods, such as fixed Orthodontics, in some characteristics. For example, braces are installed in fixed orthodontics in front of the teeth, which may cause changes in speech and oral comfort.

In contrast, lingual orthodontics may cause some people an unpleasant sensation, as the device is located inside the mouth and can pressure the tongue and gums.

Suitable Conditions for the Use of Lingual Orthodontics

Invisalign Orthodontics is ideal for people with minor to moderate dental irregularities who do not want their orthodontic appliance to be noticeable. However, it is unsuitable for patients whose jaws are easily stacked since the pressure from chewing could damage the appliance and the teeth.

Essential health tips during treatment

Oral hygiene is vital in lingual orthodontic treatment therapy. Pieces of food may get stuck behind the teeth quickly, creating the right environment for bacteria to grow. So, one should use soft toothbrushes and clean the teeth cautiously to avoid discoloration.

Lingual braces can be more difficult to clean and adjust to, and they may cause temporary speech changes.
American Dental Association

Frequently Asked Questions About Lingual Orthodontics

1. Is lingual orthodontics suitable for people who do sports?
   Because the brackets are hidden behind the teeth, lingual orthodontics is a good option for people participating in high-impact sports like football or basketball. The appliances do not come into direct contact with the mouth or lips.
2. Is there a need to use a retainer after lingual orthodontics?
   Like other orthodontic procedures, lingual orthodontic treatment must be completed with a retainer to maintain the treatment’s results and prevent the teeth from shifting.
3. Is lingual orthodontics problematic for people who are particularly allergic to certain foods?
   Some people may experience discomfort or sensitivity in their gums and tongue after installing lingual orthodontics. For those allergic to certain foods, using lingual orthodontics may be challenging.
4. Is it possible to correct back teeth with lingual orthodontics?
   Yes, lingual orthodontics can also be used to correct back teeth. Typically, this type of treatment is effective for both front and back teeth simultaneously but requires more expertise and experience from the orthodontist.
5. What factors can change the length of lingual orthodontic treatment?
   Factors such as age, the severity of misalignment, patient compliance with oral hygiene, and regular visits to the orthodontist can influence treatment duration. More complex treatments usually take longer.
6. Does insurance cover lingual orthodontics?
   It depends on the type of insurance and its policies. Some insurances cover the cost of orthodontics to some extent, but due to its specificity and complexity, the cost of lingual orthodontics is usually higher than that of other procedures. For more detailed information, it is better to contact your insurance.
7. Can lingual orthodontics help treat jaw problems such as overbite?
   Lingual orthodontics alone are unsuitable for correcting complex jaw problems such as overbite. Combining treatments or fixed orthodontics may be necessary to correct the jaw and teeth problem.
8. Is lingual orthodontics suitable for people who already have fixed orthodontics?
   People who have already had fixed orthodontics may use lingual orthodontics to maintain the results or correct minor changes in the position of the teeth. It depends on the teeth’s current condition and the orthodontist’s opinion.
9. Does lingual orthodontics change speaking?
   At the beginning of treatment with lingual orthodontics, some people may have difficulty speaking because the device is located behind the teeth and may interfere with the tongue. However, most people get used to it after a while.
10. Is lingual orthodontics suitable for older people?
    Lingual orthodontics can also be used for older people, but depending on the individual’s dental condition and treatment needs, other methods may be more effective for correcting dental abnormalities. In any case, consultation with an orthodontist is necessary to determine the best option.

Conclusion

Lingual Orthodontics is an excellent option for people who want to correct their dental abnormalities but don’t want their orthodontic apparatus seen.

However, with technological advancements, clear aligners like Invisalign have emerged as a modern alternative, offering even more convenience and aesthetics.

To explore the best orthodontic solution for your needs, schedule a consultation at Beach Cities Dentistry in Manhattan Beach

Sources:

https://www.ajodo.org/
https://aaoinfo.org/
https://www.colgate.com/