Integrating lingual orthodontics into specialist practice

Lingual orthodontics is an evolving treatment modality and increasingly an appliance of choice for the patient wanting discrete yet comprehensive treatment. Although historically not always a treatment of choice, lingual appliances have enjoyed an increase in popularity in recent years with the advent of contemporary lingual appliances providing a viable treatment alternative to aligner treatments and aesthetic labial brackets.¹ It is estimated that about 10% of the UK's 960 registered orthodontic specialists offer the lingual technique, and the number is growing.²

In 2016, the British Orthodontic Society (BOS) conducted a survey designed to gather data about adult orthodontics in the UK, which was sent to all members working in specialist practice. Seventy-five percent of respondents reported seeing an increase in adult treatment, with a quarter starting more than 50 new adult cases each year, the main drivers for treatment appearing to be heightened awareness of adult orthodontics, alongside rising expectations on how treatment can positively impact on both appearance and well-being.³ This increase in demand for treatment, and in particular aesthetic treatment, has made the use of lingual appliances all the more appealing to the public and prompted more orthodontists to consider integrating the technique into clinical practice.