Fixed braces that nobody can see.
Lingual braces are bonded to the inside surfaces of your teeth. They work exactly like conventional braces — with all the mechanics hidden entirely from view.
The mechanics of lingual orthodontics.
Custom brackets made for your teeth
Lingual brackets cannot be standard — they must be custom-made to fit the unique contours of your tooth surfaces. Precise digital impressions taken at our Claremont practice are used to fabricate brackets that sit flush and comfortably against the inside of each tooth.
Bonded to the tongue side
The brackets are carefully bonded to the lingual (tongue-facing) surfaces of your teeth. An archwire threads through each bracket in the same way as conventional braces, applying the controlled forces needed to move teeth.
Regular adjustments
Every 4–6 weeks, Dr Denize adjusts the wire tension and assesses progress. Adjustments for lingual braces require specialist skill, which is one reason this treatment is best provided by a specialist orthodontist rather than a general dentist.
Debond and retainers
Once treatment is complete, the brackets are removed and retainers are fitted. These maintain the position of your teeth long-term and are an essential part of any orthodontic outcome.
When discretion is a priority.
Lingual braces suit patients who want the precision and reliability of fixed orthodontic treatment without any visible hardware. They are particularly popular with adults in Perth who are working in professional, client-facing, or public-facing roles — and with anyone for whom the appearance of braces is a genuine concern.
Patients from Dalkeith, Cottesloe, Subiaco, Nedlands, and Shenton Park regularly consult at our Claremont practice when they want effective orthodontic treatment that stays hidden.
Brackets and wires sit behind the teeth, invisible from the front at any angle.
Comparable to conventional braces. Dr Denize will give you a personalised estimate.
Stays in place throughout treatment — no compliance concerns around wearing hours.
Frequently asked questions about lingual braces.
Are lingual braces completely invisible?
Yes. Because the brackets and wires are bonded to the inside surfaces of your teeth, they are not visible when you smile, speak, or laugh. This makes lingual braces the most discreet fixed orthodontic option available in Perth. For patients whose profession or personal life makes visible braces a concern, this is often a significant advantage.
Do lingual braces affect speech?
There is typically an adjustment period of one to two weeks during which speech may sound slightly different, particularly with sounds made by the tongue touching the back of the front teeth. Most patients at our Claremont practice find their speech returns to normal quite quickly as the tongue adapts. Practising speaking aloud helps speed up this adjustment.
Are lingual braces more uncomfortable than regular braces?
Lingual braces sit against the tongue, which means the tongue may brush against the brackets during the early weeks of treatment. Some patients find this causes minor irritation or soreness initially. Orthodontic wax can help, and discomfort typically settles as the tongue adapts. Dr Denize will discuss what to expect at your Claremont consultation.
How long does lingual brace treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your case and is broadly comparable to treatment with conventional braces — typically 12 to 24 months. Dr Denize will give you a personalised estimate after assessing your teeth and bite at your initial consultation in Claremont.
Can lingual braces treat complex cases?
Yes. Lingual braces are a fixed appliance giving Dr Denize the same degree of control over tooth movement as conventional braces. They can address crowding, spacing, rotations, and bite issues. Suitability depends on the specific case, which is why a thorough specialist assessment at our Stirling Highway practice is essential before deciding on this option.
Interested in lingual braces? Let's talk.
Take our free 3-minute assessment or call our Claremont practice to book a consultation with Dr Denize.