Lingual braces – what are they and why are they needed?

Lingual braces are the second most popular way to correct malocclusion in adults.

Lingual braces are braces that are fixed to the inner surface of the teeth.
They made a breakthrough in orthodontics, eliminating the main problems of classic braces, gaining a huge advantage over other braces. Which? They became invisible to the outside eye. Then even models appeared that began to be called incognito. If you look at the back, inner side of the teeth with lingual braces installed on them, then we will see the following picture:

Any orthodontic design, no matter how useful it may be, has its pros and cons. This was the case at one time with classic braces, which won the love and hatred of millions, and still stand “guardian of the bite,” bringing considerable benefit to patients. But they were first replaced by their improved competitors, then by invisible, lingual ones, who took away their audience from the classic ones. Then lingual braces began to improve - thinner

, lighter
,
more
invisible
, with combined anti-allergic materials. The trend of progress is clear, right?

At the time of publication - before the start of use in patients, if the number of advantages of the model exceeds the number of disadvantages, then this advantage “in the pluses” allows the bracket system to become popular among orthodontists and patients. But progress does not stand still. And braces are being replaced by competitive technologies, which, by their appearance, seem to bring into view all the disadvantages of their predecessors. And if previously users did not pay any attention to some of the disadvantages of lingual brace systems, their current absence in competitive models forces specialists (orthodontists) and users (patients) to talk about them more and more often. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of lingual braces are being discussed today.

Which sapphire braces are better?

Sapphire staples have an attractive appearance. Various manufacturers offer a variety of crystal products.

Brand "Inspire ICE"

The system has a large number of advantages, including the transparency of the material, the ability to withstand heavy loads, no color change, minimal wire friction, the removal process does not cause discomfort, and the enamel is not injured. There is only one minus - the increased fragility of the products.

Brand "Damon Clear"

Braces can be placed on molars with little space. They differ from other models by the absence of ligatures. The arc is held in place by a latch. There are many advantages. For example, hassle-free hygiene care. The number of trips to the dentist is decreasing. The model is installed regardless of age. The periodontal condition is improving.

Brand "Miso"

The peculiarity is transparency. This is achieved due to the fact that the products are made from single crystal sapphire. They are distinguished by their reliability, easy removal procedure, compact size, and rounded shape. You can choose any shade to match the color of the enamel, and the patient will be confident in its resistance to staining.

Brand "American Orthodontics"

The most common model. The difference is the small size and area of ​​adhesion to the enamel.

To make a choice, you need to weigh the pros and cons:

Pros and cons of internal lingual braces

The advantages of lingual braces are as follows. There are only three left:

• The first, main advantage
  is that lingual braces are not visible.
  These are truly internal braces
  . To see them, a person either must know that the braces are fixed from the inside, or be a dentist. Or this is a very close person who knows that you are currently undergoing treatment with braces.
• The second advantage of lingual braces
  is that in a small part (see table below) of lingual braces, as in treatment with aligners, 3D modeling technologies are used. That is, the orthodontist (and the patient) can see the final result of the treatment even before it begins.
• The third advantage
  of lingual brace systems is that orthodontists can make some adjustments at the treatment stage, that is, this is, so to speak, not doom, not blindly. That is, the patient can participate in this treatment process to correct his bite (unlike classic braces).

What are the disadvantages of lingual braces when correcting malocclusion in adults? There are now five main disadvantages. No, even six:

• The first disadvantage
  is that the lingual type of braces is much more painful. That is, there was a study where patients had to rate pain on a ten-point scale. There, calibration was carried out in a certain way so that the results were more or less the same. Patients were treated with conventional braces - one group, another group - with internal, lingual braces, and the third - with aligners (orthodontic aligners, a direct competitor to lingual braces). So, the most painful braces turned out to be lingual braces, and we usually warn patients about this.

• The second minus
  is very important. When correcting a bite with internal braces, diction suffers because they are located on the inside, and our tongue is also located on the inside. Well, naturally, diction suffers. The so-called logoneurosis may develop, when a person becomes very nervous because he has incorrect sound pronunciation.
• Third minus
  . The tongue is injured by the working parts of lingual braces, especially in the first period of time after their installation; patients complain about this very much.

• The fourth disadvantage
  is that treatment with internal braces takes longer than with conventional braces. For many patients, the time factor of treatment is the main factor when choosing a method for correcting a bite.
• Fifth
  , one of the most important disadvantages is that this is
  a VERY expensive treatment
  . In terms of treatment cost, lingual braces are much more expensive than aligners. Here, firstly, the purchase price is high, and the biggest factor is that this is a very labor-intensive treatment for the doctor, and the labor intensity is included in the cost of treatment. It feels like they are made of gold, the price of lingual braces is so high

What braces should I put on an adult?

For people over 30 years of age, the doctor selects an orthodontic device taking into account aesthetic requirements, functionality and cost. Since skeletal growth has already stopped, making the right choice is more difficult.

If you want to correct the position of your teeth as an adult, you should choose non-ligature products. It is better to choose ceramic, silicone or sapphire models because they are similar to the color of natural enamel. Silicone aligners are placed when there is a slight change in the bite.

Based on the installation method, people over 30 years of age choose a hidden mount. Lingual appliances are attached to the inside of the teeth. They are visually invisible, do not interfere with diction, and do not injure the mucous membrane. This fact is an advantage, because the treatment period in adults increases by 6-12 months, and most adults are embarrassed to wear the structure. Often the material is selected based on price. Prices for metal structures for one jaw start from 30 thousand. Sapphire and ceramic models are more expensive. Their prices are 50 thousand and 40 thousand respectively.

The sixth disadvantage of lingual braces is the intimate side

Doctors are tactfully silent about this drawback of lingual braces. But it exists. And it causes a lot of problems for owners of lingual structures. This is a continuation of the minus of point #3 - injury. But not the tongue - but injury by parts of the internal braces to the mucous membrane of the sexual partner during intimate caresses: causing micro-scratches with possible infection of the wounds due to insufficient hygiene of the lingual braces. Such statistics are periodically published in the European and American press, where they really and openly talk about it.

At what age is it better to get braces?

There is no time frame for fitting orthodontic appliances. Dentists recommend correcting abnormal growth problems as early as possible to reduce the length of time you wear braces. At a more mature age, the process of straightening molars drags on for up to five years.

Expert answers

To decide which braces are best to choose in a given situation, you need to consult a doctor. Here are the most popular questions and answers on the topic of choosing an orthodontic appliance. Answered by a dentist with extensive experience.

I don’t know which system to choose – ceramic or sapphire. How to make a choice?

If it’s just a matter of aesthetics, then you should give preference to ceramics, since sapphire types emphasize yellowness due to transparency. However, it is worth remembering that if you are a coffee lover, then ceramics are not suitable for you.

How to decide which braces to choose – sapphire or metal?

In this matter, you need to start from the neglect of the case. If the pathology is serious, the dentition is very crowded, then metal braces need to be installed. They apply more pressure. The situation will improve within a year. In other cases, you can choose sapphire types.

Doctor, tell us in what cases are ceramic or metal types used?

Metal and ceramic systems differ in price. This is a significant factor in the choice for most patients. Metal is much cheaper. It is installed for serious dental pathologies. Such products move displaced units faster. Treatment with ceramic braces lasts longer. They are placed when one or two teeth fall out of a row. Comparing the two types, ceramics wins due to the fact that it does not leave stains on the enamel.

What is the difference between ligature and non-ligature systems?

Ligature and self-ligating types differ in the method of attachment. In the first models, the orthodontic arch is secured with special rubber bands or medical wire. Non-ligatures are secured with locks.

Which braces to choose to correct malocclusion of the front teeth - lingual or regular?

You need to start from the price. Costs vary significantly. Internal brackets are more expensive due to the complexity of the installation work. The second factor is getting used to a foreign body in the mouth. It takes 3-4 weeks to get used to lingual types. In addition, diction changes during this period. The treatment period is the same.

In terms of price-quality ratio, should you choose iron or ceramic products?

The cost of metal devices is much lower, the structure is stronger and more reliable. Ceramics are more expensive, but are not as conspicuous as iron, but they are more fragile. The choice is up to the patient. It is difficult to say which braces are better.

Doctor, please advise which braces are best for a 12 year old child?

Without familiarizing yourself with the situation, it is difficult to answer the question. It is necessary to take into account the degree of occlusion, pressure on surrounding tissues, friction against opposing units, etc.

And now - about the competitor of lingual braces

Who has become a competitor to lingual braces? Who has opportunities that are not available in lingual constructions? These are orthodontic aligners, the so-called aligners (aligners in English are “aligners”). The beginning of a new era in orthodontics was heralded by Invisalign. With the advent of aligners, the world was divided into two diametrically opposed camps - “with braces” and “without braces”. And no one from the “braces” camp wants to give up their place on the podium. But new aligner technologies based on mathematical models of the movement of teeth and their nerve endings in the gums, improving computer technologies for modeling treatment results, reducing the influence of the human factor in making certain decisions on the tactics of patient management - step by step, are confidently pushing back braces. which cannot compare anything new to aligners. And what is the result?

By the way, if you have 1 minute and are ready to answer 9 express questions

, you can find out whether aligners are right for you or not.

But let's continue about lingual braces

Do you think that lingual braces only have the five disadvantages that we discussed above? Unfortunately no. Orthodontists have prepared a large comparative analysis of bite correction systems - on the one hand - albeit invisible, but - rigid bulky structures such as braces, and on the other - orthodontic aligners, aligners (they are generally weightless and invisible on the teeth). This analysis also included all the pros and cons of lingual braces. There are more than 70 of them (!). And if you read this analysis in detail - and it is really interesting and written in simple language, then you get the feeling that not only lingual braces, but all braces - although they are popular, they are already a thing of the past, as they say.

What braces should I give my child?

Children are often given metal ligature structures. The staples are painted in different colors, which is especially popular with kids. The advantage is that the devices can be adjusted to suit the growing jaw. In addition, metal models are the cheapest, metal correction is simpler and more profitable.

Ceramics require careful daily hygiene; such products are expensive, so they are not suitable for small children.

At what age should a child get braces?

Correction of the dentition with orthodontic devices is possible from the age of 10, when baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth and the tissues are completely strengthened . However, many children in this period have not yet formed the dentofacial apparatus. Therefore, treatment is recommended after twelve years of age. Until this age, unstrengthened roots may not withstand the load. Until the jaw has formed and four molars have grown in, specialists correct the defects with removable plates.

At what age should a girl get braces?

If any pathologies of the dentition are noticed, it is worth installing the device immediately after the formation of the incisors and their roots. Of course, there are no age restrictions for installation . The optimal age is 11-13 years. During this period, one year is enough to eliminate anomalies. In adolescence and adulthood, girls face such difficulties as slow metabolism, cessation of jaw growth, and slow tissue regeneration. These factors increase the duration of wearing the structure to three years.

What braces should I get for a teenager?

Adolescents aged 12-16 years are fitted with non-ligature orthodontic appliances with enamel protection . This makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene. In order not to provoke any complexes, teenagers choose ceramic models. They are less noticeable on the enamel surface.

The choice of system is influenced by the following factors:

• insufficient oral care. In this case, you need to give preference to metal.
• reluctance to diet. It is also worth choosing metal.

Statistics show that internal lingual braces are a thing of the past

But not in Russia. We are accustomed to the fact that new trends and technologies come to us a little late, 3-5 years. The case with braces is no exception. In European countries, orthodontists note a sharp shift in patients’ interests towards lightweight, invisible aligners on the teeth. There is a decline in orders from orthodontists for lingual braces from brace system manufacturers in Europe. In the USA, by the way, such a decline occurred several years ago and now braces and aligners divide the orthodontic equipment market 50:50

In Russia, the main obstacle is... the orthodontists themselves. Young specialists are already trying to be at the center of all new trends, actively studying and specializing. But older generation orthodontists are more conservative, and the main disadvantage of many of them is computer illiteracy and reluctance to master advanced computer technologies. Very often you hear: “Why relearn? There will be enough braces for our age.” And thus, orthodontists do not leave patients a choice of treatment, offering in cases where invisible treatment is required - lingual braces, which are already becoming obsolete.

Undoubtedly, linval braces have a common big advantage of all brace systems: it is a metal structure that has more powerful force and pressure on the teeth, which means it can cope in areas where it is difficult to heal with aligners. But such pathologies do not occur very often. Since we started talking about all lingual brace systems, let's list them:

• traditional lingual braces (Ormco STB, Inovation L, etc.)
• individual lingual braces Incognito
• custom lingual braces Win

Let's briefly look at their capabilities based on the main parameters, including comparing prices for lingual braces. We will also compare this type of bracket systems with the capabilities of aligners.

How to care for your oral cavity?

If you do not take good care of your mouth while wearing braces, your gums may become inflamed. After installation of the structures, it becomes more difficult to brush your teeth, so the duration of this procedure should not be less than ten minutes. At the same time, this must be done after every meal without toothpaste (otherwise it will negatively affect the enamel). If you cannot use a toothbrush, you need to rinse your mouth. This will remove food debris from the system.

It is worth noting that you need to use a special paste and brush. As already mentioned, a simple remedy cannot be used. If you follow this recommendation, you can maintain your dental health. Ideally, you should also visit a specialist at our orthodontics clinic to have professional cleaning done:

• process enamel;
• remove tartar;
• seal fissures.

So, treatment with braces is not only wearing these structures, but also careful oral care.

Comparison of the main systems of lingual braces and Star Smile aligners

Pay attention to the last point of the table. Dependence on the doctor’s qualifications very tightly “ties” the patient both to the choice of bite correction method and to the quality of treatment using braces.

In the case of treatment with aligners, the entire treatment process can be predicted and presented to the patient on a computer - a 3D virtual model. After this, all the doctor’s competence comes down to competent “service” for the patient, and many doctors do not like this approach - they want to completely subordinate the patient’s treatment to their will and decisions.

The treatment process thus includes subjective assessments of the orthodontist treating you and, as a result, the result of treatment with lingual braces completely depends on the competence of this doctor. In the case of treatment with aligners, the risk of getting a poor-quality result is practically reduced to zero.

Types of bracket systems by type of fixation

The main element of braces is the arch, which creates a load, forcing the teeth to move in a given direction. Depending on the method of fixing the arch, braces are divided into:

• Ligatures
  . The name comes from the small rubber bands (ligatures) that secure the wire in the system. Re-upholstery is required at least once a month. The orthodontist regulates the load, which allows more precise control of the treatment process. Individuality can be achieved using colored ligatures.
• Unligated (self-ligating)
  . They are more modern orthodontic devices. Instead of ligatures, the design uses a lid or a lock. They require tightening every 1.5-2 months. Suitable for those who do not have the opportunity to frequently visit the dental clinic (for example, due to frequent business trips).

Both types do an excellent job of the task, so it is impossible to recommend only one of them as the best. As a rule, the dentist provides the patient with the choice of a device based on this characteristic.

Why are aligners cheaper than lingual braces?

Both external and internal braces are being replaced by digital technologies in the form of aligners, which are comfortable, invisible and completely predictable. If in the case of lingual systems orthodontists note as a plus such aspects as 3D visualization and the ability to at least partially control the process of correcting the bite, then in the case of aligners the patient ALWAYS sees his result BEFORE the start of treatment and this result is always achieved in 100% of cases.

And of course, a big question arises about the price of lingual systems. As we said just above, lingual braces are the MOST expensive way to correct a bite. And if we consider the same Star Smile aligners as a method of treatment, then the cost of treatment with aligners over the last year has become much lower than the cost of this type of braces.

Why did it happen? Everything is very simple. Where during the treatment process the orthodontist spends his time (which is very expensive for them) carefully considering the method of moving the tooth and correcting the bracket system, in the case of aligners, the entire treatment prognosis was planned in advance by the software. And the doctor’s participation in correcting the bite using aligners becomes less. And the result is almost the same!

Contraindications

Like any orthodontic correction system, internal braces cannot always be installed; there are contraindications:

• excessively narrow jaw;
• low crown parts of teeth;
• pathology of the mandibular joint;
• children's age up to 11 – 12 years;
• severe mental disorders;
• diseases of the skeletal system.

In addition, braces cannot be installed at the time of exacerbation of any disease, in the presence of dental and (or) periodontal disease (gingivitis or periodontitis). Braces therapy is only possible with a completely sanitized oral cavity.

Motivation for orthodontic treatment is different for men and women

Regular surveys of adult patients who are considering certain methods of correcting their bite show that men and women motivate themselves differently against braces. But the basis for refusing treatment with lingual braces is their two disadvantages - discomfort

and
price
.

Men speak directly about the discomfort of braces: “Am I a boy, or what?”

Women reduce the problem of wearing braces to a psychological level, preferring aligners:

Which ceramic braces are better?

Several models from different companies are used in this work. All have different characteristics.

Brand "Damon"

The manufacturer produces non-ligature types based on a clip, which is an advantage. The design does not oxidize and does not change color. Braces reduce wearing time.

Brand "Clarity"

It does not shimmer or shine in the sun, so the system is invisible in the oral cavity. The color does not stand out from the natural shade of the enamel, making the product less noticeable. Ceramics do not irritate the mucous membrane. It is also hypoallergenic. Small locks are not felt.

What lengths do aligner manufacturers now go to in order to divert patients' attention from braces?

There are good discounts, free consultations, and even free modeling of a future smooth and beautiful smile. But most people, out of established habit, choose not even lingual braces, but ordinary braces, as the main way to correct their bite. In any case, whichever method you choose now, this is the first step towards solving the problem of crooked teeth and entering a new world of opportunities that will open up your beautiful smile.

And by the way, you can sign up for a free consultation and 3D smile modeling in your city by filling out the form below this article. Star Smile specialists will select a specialized orthodontic center for you in close proximity to your residence.

Models

The number of patients who are ready to undergo therapy with an orthodontist is growing every day. If you prefer aesthetic orthodontics, then modern dentistry is ready to offer you a whole range of devices for forming a correct dental bite; we will consider them further.

Incognito

Completely individual technology, which allows the orthodontist to work at the most modern level, it also provides maximum comfort to the patient.

Advantages:

• are 100% individually developed, made precisely from dental impressions using the most modern technologies;
• since the inside of teeth is more resistant to caries, the risk of demineralization is reduced;
• due to the use of gold alloy, Incognito lingual braces are hypoallergenic;
• tongue injury is minimized;
• since the design is thin, getting used to them is much easier;
• Problems with diction are also less likely.

STB

The name is associated with the names of two developers: Giuseppe Scuzzo and Kyoto Takemoto. Doctors around the world highly appreciate this device.

The STB lingual system is also custom-made with mandatory computer positioning and straight arches are used.

Why STB:

• small sizes, getting used to them happens very quickly;
• work efficiency is increased due to the use of a straight arc in the design;
• design features allow the tooth to be positioned as correctly as possible;
• if any structural element is lost, it can be manufactured immediately, without waiting for an order from abroad.

In Ovation L

One of the latest developments in modern orthodontics. It is also made taking into account individual characteristics, interactive, without ligature. Ovation L lingual braces feature an interactive latch and are able to combat malocclusions that are difficult to correct using classical technologies. The entire design of the device has been worked out to the smallest detail in order to reduce discomfort during therapy to a minimum, as well as reduce the specialist’s work time.

Win

The flattest design in the world, created by a professional in his field, Dr. Wichman, author of Incognito. Win braces are the result of the work of a well-coordinated team of specialists who make it possible to exclusively accurately and absolutely predict the result of therapy; taking into account all the latest research, all design elements are manufactured; it is also individual and interactive.

2d

Surprisingly thin - from 1.3 to 1.65 millimeters. And what is also noteworthy is that the 2d lingual bracket system is self-adjusting; the arch enters the groove from the occlusal side, clamped with a clip. The clip is opened and closed using a special tool. Another significant advantage is the pricing policy; 2d ones are significantly lower than most orthodontic devices, which are supposed to be installed on the inside of the molars.

Do you really need lingual braces as your doctor advises?

Are you ready to carry this pile of iron in the form of lingual braces in your mouth for the entire duration of treatment (a year or two)?
Rub your tongue against them, polish them until they shine, eliminating pieces of food? Braces are uncomfortable and not aesthetically pleasing. Yes, aligners can’t fix everything. But you can have a free consultation with our orthodontists and understand - what if your case can be perfectly cured with aligners? If aligners can do it, then why subject yourself to self-torture with braces? So, we offer a FREE consultation. The Star Smile company operates in more than 70 cities of Russia and will be able to offer you competent consultation with an orthodontist in your city.

Take the first step towards comfortable treatment

Price policy

Of course, it should be noted that invisible braces are quite expensive. However, you can look for possible ways to save money. For example, on the upper jaw such elements are much more noticeable than on the lower jaw, so it is quite possible to install conventional devices on the lower jaw and internal ones on the upper teeth. This will save about 25% of the cost. Some dental clinics offer lingual braces in installments or on credit. The cost of an orthodontic device also depends on what material the elements are made of, and therefore you can choose the most suitable option.