Cost, Types & Everything You Need to Know

Lingual braces are a specialized orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth while remaining hidden from view. Unlike traditional braces that are attached to the front surface of the teeth, lingual braces are fixed to the inner (lingual) surface facing the tongue. Because they are placed behind the teeth, they are often referred to as hidden braces or invisible braces.

The most commonly available lingual brace systems include Incognito® and Harmony®. These advanced orthodontic systems are custom-manufactured specifically for each patient to ensure precise tooth movement and predictable treatment outcomes.

Incognito lingual braces feature fully customized brackets, archwires, bonding trays, and accessories designed using advanced CAD/CAM technology and rapid prototyping techniques. This level of customization allows orthodontists to achieve accurate tooth movement while maintaining a discreet appearance throughout treatment.

The average cost of lingual braces in Dubai ranges between AED 25,000 and AED 30,000 depending on the complexity of the orthodontic problem and the duration of treatment. Since each appliance is individually customized, lingual braces are considerably more expensive than traditional braces and clear aligner systems.

Although lingual braces were once considered one of the best invisible orthodontic solutions available, modern clear aligner systems such as Invisalign have become increasingly popular due to their enhanced comfort, convenience, and removability.

Today, many orthodontic specialists recommend clear aligners as the first choice for patients seeking discreet orthodontic treatment. However, lingual braces may still be suitable for specific cases where fixed orthodontic treatment is preferred.

Real Advantage of Lingual Braces

Is It Worth It?

The primary advantage of lingual braces is their invisible appearance. Because the brackets and wires are attached to the back surfaces of the teeth, they remain hidden from view during normal conversations, professional interactions, and social events.

Patients who are concerned about the appearance of traditional metal braces often choose lingual braces because they allow orthodontic treatment to be carried out discreetly without affecting their smile aesthetics.

Lingual braces can successfully correct many orthodontic problems including crowding, spacing, bite issues, and tooth alignment problems while maintaining a natural-looking smile throughout treatment.

  • Hidden behind the teeth for maximum aesthetics.
  • Virtually invisible during everyday interactions.
  • Effective for treating complex orthodontic cases.
  • Customized treatment for precise tooth movement.
  • Provides continuous orthodontic correction without removable appliances.

Disadvantages of Lingual Braces

What Patients Rarely Talk About

While lingual braces offer excellent aesthetics, they also come with several disadvantages that patients should carefully consider before choosing this treatment option.

One of the most common challenges associated with lingual braces is speech difficulty. Since the brackets are positioned near the tongue, many patients experience temporary pronunciation problems during the initial weeks or months of treatment.

The tongue requires time to adapt to the presence of the brackets and wires. During this adjustment period, patients may notice discomfort when speaking, eating, or swallowing.

Tongue irritation and ulcers are also relatively common with lingual braces. Continuous contact between the tongue and orthodontic appliances can cause soreness until the mouth adapts to the braces.

Another common concern is irritation caused by archwires. In some cases, archwires may poke the tongue and create discomfort, requiring orthodontic adjustments to improve comfort.

Eating with lingual braces can be more challenging compared to other orthodontic options. Certain foods may need to be avoided to reduce the risk of damaging brackets and wires.

Hard foods, sticky foods, and crunchy snacks can increase the risk of bracket breakage or archwire distortion, which may require additional orthodontic visits and repairs.

Because lingual braces are custom-made for each patient, treatment costs are significantly higher than conventional braces or clear aligner systems.

Many patients also find lingual braces less comfortable than Invisalign Clear Aligners because Invisalign does not involve brackets or wires and can be removed during meals and oral hygiene routines.

  • Temporary speech difficulties.
  • Tongue irritation and mouth ulcers.
  • Possible tongue injury from archwires.
  • More difficult eating experience.
  • Food restrictions during treatment.
  • Risk of bracket breakage.
  • Higher treatment costs.
  • More challenging oral hygiene maintenance.
  • Less comfort compared to Invisalign.

Lingual Braces vs Invisalign

Which Invisible Orthodontic Treatment Is Better?

Both lingual braces and Invisalign provide discreet orthodontic treatment options. However, Invisalign has become the preferred choice for many patients due to its removable design, improved comfort, and ease of maintenance.

Unlike lingual braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed while eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This flexibility allows patients to maintain their normal lifestyle with fewer restrictions.

The best treatment option depends on your orthodontic condition, treatment goals, and personal preferences. A consultation with an experienced orthodontist can help determine whether lingual braces or Invisalign is the most suitable solution for your smile.

Book Your Lingual Braces Consultation in Dubai

At Easy Dental Clinic Dubai, our experienced orthodontic specialists provide personalized orthodontic treatment plans tailored to your individual needs. We carefully assess your smile, bite, and treatment goals to recommend the most effective orthodontic solution.

Whether you are considering lingual braces, Invisalign, ceramic braces, or metal braces, our team is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident, and beautiful smile.

Book Your Orthodontic Consultation Today