InSmile lingual braces are placed on the tongue side of the teeth, making the appliance far less visible from the front than conventional braces. At COCO Smiles Orthodontics in Miami, Dr. Sibel Eljach evaluates this option for patients who want a discreet fixed appliance and whose bite and tooth anatomy support lingual treatment.
How Lingual Braces Work
Lingual braces use the same principles as traditional braces — brackets and wires that apply controlled force to move teeth — but are bonded to the inner surfaces of your teeth instead of the outer surfaces. This placement makes the appliance less visible from a typical front view than conventional braces.
Dr. Eljach uses InSmile lingual braces, which are custom-manufactured for each patient. The brackets are designed using digital impressions from our iTero® Lumina scanner, ensuring a precise fit on the unique contours of your tooth surfaces.
Who Are Lingual Braces For?
Lingual braces may be considered by adults and teens who need fixed orthodontic treatment and prefer an appliance placed behind the teeth. Possible candidates include:
• Working professionals in client-facing roles
• Adults who want fixed-appliance precision without visibility
• Patients whose cases require treatment beyond what clear aligners can achieve
• Patients seeking a fixed appliance that is less visible from the front
Specialist Training in Lingual Orthodontics
Lingual braces require appliance-specific planning and technique. Dr. Eljach received training in lingual orthodontics during her residency at the University of Illinois Chicago and continues education related to behind-the-teeth appliance systems. She evaluates diagnosis, anatomy, hygiene, and treatment goals before recommending this option.
Benefits of Lingual Braces
• Discreet placement — Brackets are hidden behind the teeth from a typical front view
• Fixed appliance control — The appliance remains in place between visits
• Custom-made — Brackets designed for your unique anatomy
• Planned fixed treatment — May support selected comprehensive movements
• No removal needed— Works continuously, no risk of lost aligners
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lingual braces truly hidden?
The brackets and wires are placed on the tongue side of the teeth, so they are not visible from the front in the same way as conventional braces.
Will lingual braces affect speech?
Some patients notice temporary speech changes or tongue awareness while adapting. The experience varies, and the team will provide guidance for the adjustment period.
How do I clean behind-the-teeth braces?
Cleaning requires careful brushing and flossing around the inner tooth surfaces, brackets, and wires. Dr. Eljach and the team will demonstrate suitable tools and techniques.
Who is a candidate for lingual braces?
Candidacy depends on your bite, tooth shape, treatment goals, oral hygiene, and planned movements. A clinical evaluation is needed before recommending this appliance.
Explore our orthodontic services, meet Dr. Sibel Eljach and the COCO Smiles team, or review orthodontic financing and payment options.
Interested in Discreet Fixed Braces?
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