Cost Factors

Treatment Duration

The overall cost of lingual braces depends on the expected length of treatment, which can vary from patient to patient based on the complexity of the case.

Orthodontist’s Expertise

The fee charged by the orthodontist may also influence the total cost, as more experienced practitioners may command higher rates.

Average Cost Range

Typical Cost of Lingual Braces in Wimbledon and London

In London, the typical cost for lingual braces is approximately £4,000 per arch.

Payment Options

Many dental practices offer flexible payment plans, allowing patients to spread the cost over several monthly instalments. This can help make lingual braces more affordable and manageable financially.

Contact us today to discuss lingual braces treatment and explore payment options that suit your budget.

It’s essential to consult with your orthodontist to understand the specific factors that may impact the cost in your individual case. They can provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses and help you make an informed decision about pursuing lingual braces treatment.

Initial Adjustment Period

Temporary Speech Difficulties

When lingual braces are first placed, patients may experience minor speech impediments as their tongue adjusts to the new appliances inside their mouth.

Duration

This initial adjustment period typically lasts for a few weeks, during which time speech may sound slightly different or slurred.

Long-Term Impact

Adaptation

As the patient becomes accustomed to the lingual braces, speech patterns typically return to normal.

Minimal Long-Term Effects

With proper adaptation and practice, most individuals can speak clearly and naturally with lingual braces, just as they would without braces.

Strategies for Improvement

To help mitigate any speech difficulties, orthodontists may recommend the following:

– Practicing tongue twisters and reading aloud regularly
– Speaking slowly and enunciating carefully
– Consulting a speech therapist if persistent issues arise

Definition and Placement

Behind-the-Teeth Braces

Lingual braces are orthodontic appliances that are attached to the back (tongue side) of your teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front.

Customised Design

Each bracket is custom-made to fit the unique contours of your teeth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit.

Comparison with Traditional Braces

Aesthetic Advantage

Unlike traditional braces, lingual braces are hidden from view, offering a more discreet orthodontic treatment option.

Treatment Precision

Lingual braces can often provide more precise control over tooth movement, potentially leading to more efficient treatment in some cases.

Discover the benefits of lingual braces with Ridgway Dental. Schedule a consultation to learn if this discreet orthodontic option is right for you.

While lingual braces offer unique advantages, they may not be suitable for every case. A thorough evaluation by an experienced orthodontist is necessary to determine the best treatment approach for your specific needs.

Case Suitability

Mild to Moderate Cases

Lingual braces are generally effective for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and bite problems.

Complex Cases

Some complex cases may be more challenging to treat with lingual braces and might require alternative approaches.

Limitations

Severe Overcrowding

In cases of severe overcrowding, there may not be enough space on the lingual (tongue) side of the teeth to accommodate the brackets.

Deep Overbites

Patients with deep overbites may experience more bracket breakages due to increased contact between upper and lower teeth.

Alternative Options

For cases not suitable for lingual braces, your orthodontist may recommend:
– Traditional metal braces
– Ceramic braces
– Clear aligners

Find out if lingual braces are right for your orthodontic needs with Ridgway Dental. Book a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation today.

An experienced orthodontist can assess your specific case and recommend the most appropriate treatment option to achieve your desired results.

Treatment Duration Factors

Case Complexity

The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues being addressed. Mild cases may be resolved more quickly than complex ones.

Patient Compliance

Following orthodontist instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending regular appointments can significantly impact treatment duration.

Average Treatment Times

Typical Range

On average, treatment with lingual braces can take anywhere from 18 to 36 months.

Accelerated Options

Some cases may benefit from accelerated orthodontic techniques, potentially reducing treatment time.

Progress Monitoring

Regular Check-ups

Your orthodontist will schedule periodic appointments to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure treatment stays on track.

Daily Oral Hygiene

Specialised Brushing Techniques

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around brackets and wires, paying extra attention to the lingual (tongue) side of your teeth.

Interdental Cleaning

Utilise interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between teeth and around brackets effectively.

Recommended Tools

Water Flosser

A water flosser can be particularly helpful in removing food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas around lingual braces.

Orthodontic Wax

Keep orthodontic wax on hand to cover any irritating brackets or wires temporarily.

Dietary Considerations

Foods to Avoid

Steer clear of hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage your braces or get stuck in the brackets.

Initial Discomfort

Tongue Irritation

Patients may experience some tongue irritation or soreness in the first few weeks as they adjust to the presence of brackets on the lingual side of their teeth.

Speaking and Eating Adjustments

It may take some time to get used to speaking and eating with lingual braces, potentially causing temporary discomfort.

Long-Term Comfort

Customised Fit

Lingual braces are custom-made for each patient, which can lead to improved comfort compared to one-size-fits-all traditional braces.

Adaptation Period

Most patients report becoming accustomed to their lingual braces within a few weeks, after which discomfort significantly decreases.

Managing Discomfort

Orthodontic Wax

Applying orthodontic wax to irritating brackets can provide relief during the adjustment period.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Mild pain relievers can help manage any discomfort, especially after adjustments.

Age Suitability

Adult Treatment

Lingual braces are an excellent option for adults seeking a discreet orthodontic solution. There is no upper age limit for this treatment.

Teenage Patients

Teenagers can also be good candidates for lingual braces, provided their teeth have fully erupted and they can maintain proper oral hygiene.

Advantages for Adults

Professional Appearance

The invisible nature of lingual braces makes them particularly appealing to adults in professional settings who wish to maintain a mature appearance.

Confidence Boost

Adults can undergo orthodontic treatment without the self-consciousness often associated with visible braces.

Considerations

Oral Health Status

Adults should have good overall oral health, including healthy gums and bone support, to be suitable candidates for lingual braces.

Commitment to Care

Proper care and maintenance of lingual braces require dedication, which many adults are well-equipped to handle.

Visibility

Lingual Braces

Completely hidden behind the teeth, offering maximum discretion.

Clear Aligners

Nearly invisible when worn, but can be slightly noticeable up close.

Treatment Effectiveness

Lingual Braces

Highly effective for complex cases, offering precise control over tooth movement.

Clear Aligners

Effective for mild to moderate cases, but may have limitations with certain tooth movements.

Removability

Lingual Braces

Fixed appliances that work continuously.

Clear Aligners

Removable, requiring patient compliance for 20-22 hours of daily wear.

Comfort and Speech

Lingual Braces

Initial adjustment period for tongue comfort and speech; generally comfortable long-term.

Clear Aligners

Minimal impact on speech; can be more comfortable initially.

Determine the best discreet orthodontic option for you with Ridgway Dental. Book a consultation to compare lingual braces and clear aligners for your specific case.

Both lingual braces and clear aligners offer discreet orthodontic treatment, but the best choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and orthodontic goals.

Retention Phase

Retainer Types

After treatment, you’ll need to wear retainers to maintain your new smile. Options may include fixed lingual retainers or removable retainers.

Wear Schedule

Initially, retainers are typically worn full-time, gradually transitioning to night-time wear as directed by your orthodontist.

Final Adjustments

Fine-Tuning

Your orthodontist may make minor adjustments to ensure your bite is perfectly aligned before removing the braces.

Debonding Process

The process of removing lingual braces is generally quick and comfortable, with minimal discomfort.

Long-Term Care

Regular Check-ups

Periodic visits to your orthodontist are important to monitor the stability of your results and the condition of your retainers.

Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits is crucial to preserve your newly straightened smile and overall dental health.