Below is a ranked guide of the top 8 custom lingual braces providers, with a detailed profile on each as well as some general information about lingual braces.
What Are Lingual Braces and Why Choose Them?
Lingual braces are a type of fixed orthodontic appliance where the brackets and wires are placed on the back (tongue side) of the teeth instead of the front, making them nearly invisible from the outside. Unlike traditional metal braces, which are glued to the visible front surface, lingual systems maintain the same mechanical control over tooth movement while offering a discreet alternative for teens and adults who want straightening without obvious hardware. This makes lingual braces especially popular among professionals, public‑facing roles, and anyone who wants to avoid the “metal mouth” look of conventional braces.
How Lingual Braces Work
Lingual treatment begins with an intraoral scan or impressions of the teeth, which are used to create a custom fixed appliance setup tailored to the unique shape of each patient’s arch. The brackets are bonded to the lingual surfaces and connected by a continuous wire that applies gentle, controlled pressure over time. Because the force vectors are similar to those of traditional braces, lingual systems can handle many of the same problems—crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and rotations—without relying on removable trays. Adjustments are made during regular check‑ups, where the clinician may tweak the wire or change segments to guide the teeth into their final positions.
Benefits of Lingual Braces
One of the main advantages is aesthetics: since nothing is visible from the front, most people will not realize you are in active treatment. Lingual braces are also fixed, so patients do not need to worry about compliance or tray wear time, unlike clear aligner systems. For many complex cases, lingual treatment can move teeth more predictably than aligners, especially when significant rotations, deep overbites, or non‑extraction strategies are needed. Additionally, the brackets are designed to fit the natural outline of the lingual tooth surfaces, which can reduce bulk and improve comfort compared with older, more “boxy” designs.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Lingual braces usually require a short adaptation period during which speech can feel slightly affected, and the tongue may take time to get used to the new hardware. Some patients also experience temporary discomfort or irritation until the mucosa adapts, though modern systems have reduced this with smoother, more anatomically shaped brackets. Lingual treatment often involves a slightly higher cost than traditional braces and may require a specialist with specific training in lingual techniques. Careful oral hygiene is also important, because the brackets on the back of the teeth can be harder to clean without proper brushing and flossing tools.
Who Are Lingual Braces Best For?
Lingual braces are ideal for adults and older teens who prioritize discretion but still want the power and predictability of fixed appliances. They suit people who dislike removable aligners, struggle with compliance, or have complex bite issues that aligners alone may not fully address. They are also a strong option for those who travel frequently or work in environments where appearance matters, since there is no visible labial appliance. However, candidates should have healthy gums and teeth, be committed to regular appointments, and be willing to adapt to the initial tongue and speech changes that come with any lingual system.
1. InSmile Braces – one of the top‑ranked choices
Why one of the top-ranked choices:
InSmile is widely deployed custom lingual‑brace system in the United States and is continuing to expand, making it one of main choices for “invisible” fixed orthodontics. It uses a proprietary “Smartwire” technology that is customized to patients' treatment needs, and placed behind the teeth so nothing is visible from the front, and its plan (Smile Design) is managed digitally from scan to final result.
Technology & treatment:
Comfort & aesthetics:
Clinical support & availability:
For these reasons—in visibility, customization, and strong clinical support—InSmile is ranked as one of the top choices for custom lingual braces.
2. Incognito (3M) – Very established custom lingual brand
Incognito remains one of the best‑known fully custom lingual brace brands in the U.S., with a long history in complex cases. But Incognito has now been discontinued.
3. Alias Lingual Straightwire (Ormco) – Self‑ligating lingual brand
Alias is a passive self‑ligating lingual bracket system offered by Ormco, designed to simplify bonding and wire exchanges.
4. Harmony Lingual (American Orthodontics) – Robotics‑driven custom lingual
Harmony Lingual is a custom lingual bracket line from American Orthodontics that uses 3D scanning and robotic wire‑bending technology.
5. SureSmile Lingual (Dentsply Sirona) – Digital‑workflow‑focused lingual
SureSmile Lingual integrates with the broader SureSmile ecosystem, using 3D imaging and digital planning for lingual treatment.
6. Lingual Liberty – Simple, niche lingual brand
Lingual Liberty is one of the older, simpler lingual brace names occasionally seen in U.S. clinics, often used for straightforward invisible treatment.
7. BRIUS Lingual/Brava - relatively new and novel system
BRIUS is a new and novel system listed among U.S. lingual options, typically used for select cases.
8. Other generic lingual bracket lines (e.g., 3M, Ormco, etc.) – Non‑custom “hidden” braces
Several U.S. labs and suppliers offer non‑custom lingual brackets that are adapted from conventional bracket lines and placed on the back of the teeth.