With lingual braces, the brackets are bonded to the tongue side of the teeth instead of the front. From the outside your smile looks unchanged, even up close. Because the inner surfaces of teeth vary much more in shape than the outer ones, each bracket is custom-made for the tooth it sits on, and the archwires are shaped to your individual plan. This customisation is what allows lingual braces to deliver precise, fully controlled tooth movement, comparable to conventional fixed braces, while staying hidden.
The process starts with a detailed digital scan of your teeth. Your orthodontist plans the final tooth positions, and a specialist laboratory produces brackets and wires to match, which usually takes several weeks. The brackets are then placed using a transfer tray, so each one goes exactly where it was planned. Expect a short adjustment period. Your tongue will notice the brackets at first, and some sounds may come out with a slight lisp. Speech usually returns to normal within one to three weeks as the tongue adapts.
Lingual braces start from AED 22,000 for full treatment. The higher fee reflects the custom laboratory work and the longer, more technical appointments involved. Dr. Omar Al Suwaidi provides lingual treatment and will tell you after an examination whether your bite suits it; a very deep bite, for example, may need extra steps. For many adults the choice comes down to lingual braces or Invisalign. Lingual braces work full-time without relying on you to wear aligners, which some patients find reassuring.
Benefits
Invisible from the front
The brackets sit behind your teeth, so nobody sees them when you smile, talk or appear on camera. This suits presenters, client-facing roles and anyone who wants complete discretion.
Made for your teeth
Each bracket and wire is custom-made from a digital scan of your teeth. This individual design supports precise control of tooth movement from the first appointment to the last.
No daily compliance
Unlike aligners, lingual braces cannot be left on the bedside table. They work 24 hours a day, which removes the risk of slow progress caused by forgotten wear.
Front surfaces protected
Nothing is bonded to the visible surfaces. If plaque is not cleaned well, any white marks that develop affect the inner surfaces rather than the front of your smile, although good brushing remains essential.
How treatment works
Consultation and records
Dr. Omar Al Suwaidi assesses your teeth, bite and jaw, takes X-rays and photographs, and checks that your bite leaves enough room for brackets behind the teeth.
Digital plan and lab work
A digital scan is used to plan your final tooth positions. Your custom brackets and wires are then made by a specialist laboratory, which usually takes several weeks.
Fitting and adaptation
The brackets are bonded behind the teeth using a precise transfer tray. Your tongue and speech usually adapt within one to three weeks, and orthodontic wax helps with any early tongue soreness.
Adjustments and retainers
Adjustment visits take place every six to eight weeks. When treatment is complete, the brackets are removed, the teeth are polished, and retainers keep your teeth in their new positions.
Is it right for you?
- Adults who want fixed braces that stay completely hidden from view
- Professionals whose work involves client meetings, presenting or appearing on camera
- Patients who would struggle to wear removable aligners 22 hours a day
- People who need complex tooth movements but want maximum discretion
Your dentists for lingual braces
Frequently asked questions
How much do lingual braces cost in Dubai?
Lingual braces at Veloradent start from AED 22,000 for full treatment. The cost reflects custom-made brackets and wires and more technical appointments, and your orthodontist confirms the total in writing after your assessment. You can spread payments with 0% instalments over 3, 6 or 12 months on selected bank credit cards, or split them with Tabby or Tamara. Direct insurance billing is available at our Trade Centre clinic.
Will lingual braces affect my speech?
For most people, yes, but only briefly. The tongue touches the back of the front teeth when you make sounds such as "s" and "t", so a slight lisp is common in the first days. Most patients adapt within one to three weeks, and talking and reading aloud help the tongue adjust faster.
Are lingual braces uncomfortable?
The brackets are small and smooth, but the tongue is sensitive, so it may feel sore or rubbed for the first week or two. Orthodontic wax and warm salt-water rinses help. After this initial period, most patients find lingual braces comfortable and stop noticing them in daily life.
Can anyone have lingual braces?
Most adults and many teenagers can, but not every case is suitable. A very deep bite, very short teeth or certain gum conditions can make lingual treatment harder. Your orthodontist will check your bite, the shape of your teeth and your oral health, and explain the alternatives if lingual braces are not the best option for you.
How do I clean my teeth with lingual braces?
Brush carefully along the gumline and around each bracket, angling the brush to reach behind the teeth. Interdental brushes and a water flosser help clear food from under the wires. Regular professional cleaning during treatment keeps the gums healthy, and your orthodontist will show you an effective routine at your fitting appointment.
