Aim: Anchorage is of major concern in adult lingual orthodontics, due to increasing esthetic requirements, posterior mandibular rotation caused by the lingual appliance, posterior disocclusion that excludes the interdigitation, which is a natural anchorage component, and low compliance with an extraoral appliance. Methods: Anchorage preservation in lingual orthodontic sliding mechanics follows the principles of six anchorage keys: (1) Standard lingual- bracket-jig prescription in the anterior segment, with slight extra torque and no extra tip for extraction treatment, and posteriorly, mesial off-center position and mesial angulation (tip-back) of the molar brackets; (2) bidimensional approach, with its inherent feature of less friction during sliding mechanics; (3) posterior bite stops for bite opening; (4) light orthodontic forces for space closure, with Class I (elastomeric chain), II, or III (elastics) mechanics; (5) inclusion of second molars in the anchorage unit; (6) placement of an exaggerated curve of Spee in the space-closing archwire. Conclusion: This article describes six keys to lingual orthodontic anchorage control, which provide effective space closure with sliding mechanics and simultaneously comply with all lingual orthodontic treatment goals, avoiding the use of a cumbersome loop system. The biomechanic principles of these anchorage keys are thoroughly elucidated. World J Orthod 2003;4:258–265 .