What Are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are a fixed orthodontic system in which the brackets and wires are placed on the inner (tongue-facing) surfaces of the teeth rather than the front. This makes them completely invisible from the outside, offering the corrective power of traditional braces with total aesthetic discretion. Lingual braces are the only fixed appliance option that is truly hidden from view during treatment.
Lingual Braces: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | Every 6 to 8 weeks |
| Time needed | Usually 18 to 30 months |
| Anesthesia | None |
| Recovery time | One to two weeks for the tongue and speech to adapt |
| How long it lasts | Permanent with retainers |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Lingual Braces Are For
Lingual braces can address the same range of orthodontic issues as metal and ceramic braces, including crowding, spacing, and bite irregularities. They are especially popular among adult professionals, public-facing individuals, and anyone who values aesthetics during the treatment process. For patients who prefer a removable option, Invisalign provides an alternative, though lingual braces offer the advantage of working continuously without relying on patient compliance with wear time.
Lingual braces offer fixed-appliance control with nothing visible. They take some getting used to, because the tongue shares its space with the brackets.
- Adults who need fixed braces but want nothing visible
- People who speak or perform in public
- Cases too complex for aligners
- Patients who do not want removable trays
- People who play wind instruments or contact sports and prefer nothing on the front of the teeth
Lingual Braces at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, lingual braces are offered by Dr. Marina Rubinshtein for patients who require fixed orthodontic correction but do not want any visible evidence of treatment. Because lingual brackets are custom fabricated to fit the unique contours of the inner tooth surfaces, the system requires precise planning and expertise to design and place. Dr. Marina evaluates each patient’s bite, alignment, and treatment goals to determine whether lingual braces are the right fit.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Records. A precise scan or impression is taken.
- Custom fabrication. Brackets and wires are made to fit the back of each tooth.
- Bonding. The braces are bonded using a transfer tray.
- Adjustments. Visits are every six to eight weeks.
- Removal and retention. Braces are removed and retainers are fitted.
Lingual braces compared with other discreet options
| Feature | Lingual braces | Clear aligners | Ceramic braces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visible from the front | No | Barely | Slightly |
| Removable | No | Yes | No |
| Effect on speech at first | Noticeable | Mild | Minimal |
| Relies on patient wear | No | Yes | No |
Lingual braces are the only orthodontic appliance that is truly invisible and never has to be remembered.
Living with Your Appliance
Day-to-day care
The first week
- Your tongue will feel sore; use the wax or silicone provided
- Speech usually adapts within one to two weeks; reading aloud helps
- Eat soft foods
Throughout treatment
- Clean behind the teeth carefully with a small-headed brush and interdental brushes
- A water flosser is useful
- Avoid hard and sticky foods
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- A bracket comes loose
- A wire irritates the tongue and wax does not help
- Speech has not improved after three weeks
Cost and Insurance
Orthodontic fees are usually quoted as one amount for the whole course of treatment, including adjustments and the first set of retainers.
What affects the cost
- The complexity of the tooth movement needed
- The type of appliance chosen
- The expected length of treatment
- Retainers and any replacement aligners
Some dental plans include an orthodontic benefit with a lifetime maximum. Payment is often spread across the months of treatment. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
For typical price ranges, read our guide to how much clear braces cost in Brooklyn.
