Lingual Orthodontics

3 Columns

Modern lingual  orthodontics is a special technique pioneered  in the 70s, under the leadership of Dr. Fujita (Japan) and Dr. Kurtz (USA). The  word lingual is used to describe the positioning of orthodontic brackets on the inner side of the teeth, that is to say on the side of the tongue. This is a treatment technique  which uses the same principles as conventional techniques where the braces are positioned on the external face of the teeth (labial or buccal).

Traditionnaly, lingual orthodontics was a very difficult modality to execute,  it thus motivated active and successful clinical research. We are now combining advanced technological modeling   and softwares to help us position or  even design braces and wires that are completely  individualized with a much higher precision than direct manual positioning of braces.

Are there any contra-indications for lingual orthodontics?

Yes and no: the contra-indications are those related to orthodontics in general. Those specific to lingual positioning are very limited: some teeth have a morphology that can makeit very difficult to properly position a lingual bracket. Lingual braces  can also modify  speech, particularly early in treatment (usually the first two weeks). Recent technological advances made on the shape and design made on these braces make for  treatments that are  very bearable. Patients with visible braces  have in many cases shown the desire to prematurely remove their braces, sometimes at the expense of proper finishing procedures to ensure a perfect bite; whereas patients treated with lingual braces that are not visible  have a level requirement that is assertive and prefer to keep the braces on  a few more months to ensure the best result.

Is there a fee difference between lingual braces and regular braces?

Yes, the difference in fees is due to two important and specific facts: a lingual appliance   is between 3 and 4 times more expensive than the visible braces, and the appointments average duration on the dental chair is at least 2 times longer for Lingual Treatment.
it is important to note that the total duration of the treatment stays the same ( a 18 month treatment for example is done in 18 months with a lingual or a conventional approach).
These two points alone justify a different fee. To this we can add that further training is required before an orthodontist is certified to provide lingual treatment  has his office. Dr Benguira is certified in  lingual orthodontics  with the Incognito technique ( www.hiddenbraces.com ) And eHarmony ® ( www.myharmonysmile.com).