Lingual braces are best known for being discreet – fixed to the inside surface of the teeth, they’re completely hidden from view. But discretion is only part of their talents. For patients with bite problems as well as crooked teeth, they can achieve results that go well beyond straightening.
Since founding The London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic in 2005, Dr Asif Chatoo has built a reputation for treating some of the most complex orthodontic cases – and bite correction is a central part of his work. If you’re wondering whether lingual braces can help with your bite, the answer is very likely yes.
What Kind of Bite Problems Can Be Treated?
Bite problems come in many forms, and most can be addressed with the right orthodontic treatment. Some of the most common include:
Overbite – where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively.
Overjet – where the upper front teeth protrude significantly in front of the lower teeth.
Underbite – where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
Crossbite – where some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside.
Open bite – where a gap remains between some of the upper and lower teeth when the teeth are closed together.
Bite problems like these can affect appearance, function, and the long-term health of the teeth and jaw. The encouraging news is that all of them can be treated with lingual braces.
Control, Precision, and Discretion
Lingual braces give Dr Chatoo precise control over both tooth position and bite correction at the same time – which makes them well suited to a wide range of cases. For deep overbites, overjets, crossbites, open bites, and moderate underbites, they can be highly effective, and the results can be transformative.
What matters most is an accurate diagnosis and a carefully considered treatment plan. Bite problems vary considerably from one person to the next, and the right approach depends on a thorough understanding of what’s driving the problem – not just how it looks.
Why a Thorough Assessment Matters
Straightening teeth and correcting a bite are not always the same thing – and it’s something that’s easy to overlook, particularly if treatment has been carried out remotely without a thorough in-person assessment. Patients who have tried remote aligner treatment sometimes find that their teeth look straighter but their bite hasn’t improved – or has become more uncomfortable. Without a face-to-face examination by a specialist orthodontist, bite problems can go undetected or be inadvertently made worse.
When Braces Alone May Not Be Enough
For some bite problems – particularly those where the relationship between the upper and lower jaws is a significant factor – orthodontic treatment alone may not be enough. In these cases, a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery may be the most appropriate route. Dr Chatoo has extensive experience treating patients with complex cases and works closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons where combined treatment is needed. Every step of the process is explained clearly, and patients are supported by our experienced team throughout.
Where Experience Meets Expertise
Dr Chatoo has been treating complex orthodontic cases at The London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic for more than 20 years. He was a founding member of the British Lingual Orthodontic Society and the Past President of ESLO – a reflection of a career spent at the forefront of the field. Alongside his clinical work, he lectures nationally and internationally, which means his practice is continuously informed by the latest thinking in orthodontics.
Your first appointment is a chance to get a clear picture of where things stand and what’s possible. Dr Chatoo will carry out a thorough assessment of your teeth, bite, and jaw – including a clinical examination and, where appropriate, X-rays and 3D scans – and will take the time to talk you through his findings and recommendations. There’s no pressure to commit to anything at this stage – it’s about understanding your options and what’s achievable.
Start Your Journey
If you’re concerned about your bite and would like to understand your options, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with our friendly team to arrange your no-obligation consultation.
