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Let's face it, no one likes wearing braces because of all the metal and wires. Food always get stuck in the metal brackets, the wires are unsightly and maintaining oral hygiene becomes a nightmare. Well, what if I told you that there are other ways to straighten crooked teeth more discreetly?
They are better known as invisible braces and they have changed the way people approach teeth straightening by offering a more aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. Let's learn more about invisible braces in this article!
What are invisible braces?
Invisible braces come in various forms, each designed to treat different orthodontic conditions and needs. When we talk about invisible braces, we are referring to any orthodontic procedures that appears more discreet than traditional metal braces.
Examples of such includes clear plastic aligners (like Invisalign), clear ceramic braces and lingual braces. They all work towards a common goal: they focus on teeth straightening while being as least noticeable as possible.
What are the different types of invisible braces?
The various types of invisible braces offers a discreet way to achieve a beautiful smile. Unlike traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires, invisible braces are designed to be unnoticeable during everyday interactions. There is a wide range of invisible braces, catering to different preferences and dental issues such as severe crowding, mild crowding, gaps, etc.
1) Clear Aligners
These transparent aligners have changed the way teeth straightening works! Clear aligners consist of nearly invisible trays are a good alternative to conventional types of braces. It consists of a series of aligners that gently guide your teeth into their ideal position over time. One of the most popular options available is Invisalign where each aligner set is worn for about two weeks, gradually progressing through the series until your smile is improved.
The treatment duration can vary widely depending on your specific orthodontic condition and dental treatment plan, generally lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 months. The best part? You can easily pop them out when it’s time to eat, drink (anything besides water) or brush your teeth to maintain your oral health, giving you more freedom than traditional braces.
At Dental Designs, we offer Invisalign clear aligners for adults as well as children (from as young as 5 years old)! Opt for our accelerated Invisalign+ packages to ensure a shorter treatment time.
2) Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear ceramic braces are a cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. They function in the same way but use ceramic brackets instead of metal brackets. The ceramic brackets are white or off-white in colour, helping to blend with the natural colour of the teeth.
While more discreet than metal braces, they can still be slightly visible as a thin metal wire will still be used to connect the brackets. This wire remains noticeable.
3) Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the epitome of invisible orthodontic treatment. These braces are attached to the backside of the teeth (the surface that meets the tongue), making them completely hidden from view.
Some people find that it takes a little while to get used to wearing them and you may notice some changes to your speech at first. Nonetheless, for those prioritising aesthetics, lingual braces might be the way to go.
Related Articles
- How Does Invisalign Work: 10 things To Know About Invisalign In 2024
- Wearing Invisalign: How convenient is it, really?
What are some clear aligner brands in Singapore?
Amongst the different types of invisible braces listed above, clear aligners stand out as a modern alternative designed for those who prioritise aesthetics along with functionality. Unlike conventional braces that use metal wires and brackets, these consumer aligners utilise transparent, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit snugly over misaligned or crowded teeth, facilitating a discreet teeth straightening process.
Since they can be removed at home, it makes maintaining oral health much simpler too! The local market is home to several aligner companies that offer clear aligner treatment, such as the ones listed below.
Invisalign
Invisalign treatment is a popular option for straightening upper and lower teeth, offering a clear alternative to traditional braces. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to brush and floss with ease.
Invisalign is the most recognised clear aligner brand, trusted worldwide and in Singapore with over 17 million patients since its launch in 2000. It is known for its proven success in achieving straight teeth. Invisalign uses attachments and supplementary aids to treat a wide range of misalignment dental issues.
What sets Invisalign apart is its continuous investment in R&D, AI tools and their specialised retainers, which help optimise tooth movement and results. Their aligners are made from SmartTrack material, a patented design that delivers the right amount of force for tooth movement while remaining clear and discreet—perfect for those concerned about appearance and making Invisalign one of the trusted aligner companies.
Treatment times vary depending on the severity of the case, but it is typically recommended to wear the aligners for 22 hours a day for optimal results. Invisalign is most effective for mild to moderate alignment issues and is offered by both dentists and orthodontists. While braces work in a more fixed way, Invisalign provides flexibility, making it a preferred choice for many patients.
Find out more about Invisalign with Dental Designs, here.
Zenyum
Zenyum is a budget-friendly clear aligner option, mainly for mild cases of malocclusion. They utilise a direct-to-consumer system, therefore helping to keep the costs low. Made from medical-grade plastic, Zenyum offers one of the most affordable aligner options on the market.
Find out the differences between Invisalign and Zenyum here.
ClearCorrect
ClearCorrect aligners use their patented ClearQuartz material, which resists stains and cracks. They're also thinner, making them less noticeable than other options.
In-house aligners
In house aligners refers to aligners which are designed and made in a dental laboratory using specialised CAD software. Since they're made directly by your dentist, they often cost less but require expert handling. At our dental clinic, we provide in-house aligners and they are fabricated using Zendura FLX, which is a durable polyurethane material.
Click here to read more about clear aligner dental treatment options in Singapore.
How do I get started with invisible braces?
So, you have decided to start your journey to achieving an ideal smile and proceed with invisible braces. This typically starts with an initial consultation with your dentist. If you're curious about whether invisible braces or Invisalign is right for you, we provide convenient online smile assessments. This quick check gives an idea of your dental conditions and can help you determine if you’re a suitable candidate for treatment.
Take our free online smile assessment here. Once you’re ready, we will assist in scheduling a visit to our dental clinic, where our dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums. This appointment is essential to discuss your dental treatment plan in detail. During the visit, the dentist might take digital scans and X-rays to create a 3D image of your dental structure.
Invisible Braces vs. Traditional Braces: Which is better?
If you are wondering whether invisible braces or traditional metal braces would be better for you, this depends on your needs, dental conditions and personal preference. Let’s look at some comparisons.
Appearance
Invisible braces are a clear winner in terms of aesthetics. They are virtually invisible, making them perfect for those who want a more discreet treatment option.
Complex Cases
Traditional braces may be a better option for severe crowding or complex dental problems that require more precise movement.
Cost
Invisible braces are generally more expensive than traditional braces but this varies depending on the case and provider.
Maintenance
Brushing and maintaining oral health becomes much easier when you are wearing invisible braces like clear aligners, as compared to conventional braces.
Interested in find out more? Click here to read in-depth about Invisalign vs Braces.
Conclusion
Invisible braces offer a modern and convenient solution for people looking to correct misaligned teeth, helping you achieve your ideal smile without the hassle of traditional metal braces. Their discreet appearance make them a popular choice for many looking for straighter teeth. However, it’s essential to consider your alignment needs, dental conditions and budget before deciding.
If you think invisible braces could be the right fit for you, the first step is to book a consultation with your dentist. They can assess your smile, answer any questions you may have and guide you on the best treatment plan and suitable treatment duration for your unique situation. With invisible braces, you could be just a few months away from the smile you've always wanted!
Ready for your initial consultation appointment? Just drop us a message here and our dental team will be right with you!
References
- Kumar, K., Bhardwaj, S., & Garg, V. (2018). Invisalign: a transparent braces. Journal of Advanced Medical and Dental Sciences Research, 6(7), 148-150.
- Muir, J. C. (1991). Lingual orthodontic appliances: invisible braces. The New Zealand dental journal, 87(388), 57-59.