Lingual Braces for Barnet Patients | Book A Consultation

Lingual braces are ideal when discretion is your main goal. They can fix a wide range of issues from mild crowding to complex bite problems with the same effectiveness as traditional braces. You are a good candidate if you want a fixed appliance you do not remove for eating or cleaning, unlike clear aligners. A solicitor from Barnet chose lingual braces before a major court case because visible braces would affect his professional image. The treatment finished with no one noticing. This option also works for patients who may struggle to wear removable aligners for 22 hours a day.

Your treatment starts with a 60 minute consultation at our Finchley practice. We take digital scans and use CAD/CAM technology to design and build your custom brackets and wires for a precise fit on the back teeth. The fitting appointment lasts about 90 to 120 minutes. You will return every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustments that guide your teeth into final position. Typical total treatment time is 12 to 24 months, depending on complexity. After completing, the braces come off and you’ll receive a retainer to keep your new smile.

After fitting, expect some initial discomfort and tongue irritation for the first one to two weeks. This is normal and can be managed with dental wax and over the counter pain relief. You may notice a slight lisp, which usually improves within a few weeks as your tongue adapts. Oral hygiene is important; use special brushes to clean around the brackets. Soft foods are recommended for a few days. If pain is severe or a bracket loosens, call our practice during office hours (Mon Wed Fri 9 to 5, Tue Thu 11 to 7) for advice. For emergencies outside hours, call 111 or go to the nearest A and E.

While lingual braces offer maximum discretion, other options exist. Invisalign clear aligners are also discreet and removable, making cleaning easier. Our Invisalign Full treatment costs £4,400. They require strict wear and may not suit very complex bite issues. Traditional fixed braces are common and affordable, but highly visible. They work well for almost all cases. At your consultation we'll give you a balanced view of the pros and cons of each option to help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

Lingual braces are a premium choice because of the custom manufacturing and specialist skill involved. The cost is higher than Invisalign or traditional braces. As a private practice we do not offer NHS treatment. The final price depends on how long and how complex your treatment is. We provide a detailed all inclusive quote with no hidden fees at your initial visit. We accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, which may cover part of your orthodontic care. Please check your policy for details.

To make an informed choice, ask questions whether you come to us or another Barnet practice. Inquire about their experience with lingual systems and ask to see before and after photos of similar cases. Request a clear breakdown of the total cost, including retainers and follow up appointments. Ask about expected treatment time and what happens if a bracket needs repairing. Finally ask how they handle any initial speech issues or discomfort so you feel supported throughout.