If you are looking into orthodontic treatment, you might be feeling a little lost in the myriad of options available today. Amongst choices such as ceramic, lingual, and metal braces, we also have Invisalign, a form of clear aligners that is primarily known for its near-invisible look.
Invented in 1997, Invisalign is the world’s first complete aligner system. Over the years, this FDA-approved technology has become a choice alternative to traditional braces not just for its invisibility, but its comfort, removability, and overall convenience.
The innovation behind Invisalign makes it possible to fix nearly all common teeth misalignments with minimal disruption to everyday life, but as with all other types of orthodontic treatments, there are still pros and cons to consider.
There are several clear aligner brands in Singapore, including Zenyum, ClearCorrect and Aurora. For the sake of this article, we’ll be focusing on Invisalign, one of the more popular clear aligner systems.
Invisalign is a form of clear aligners made of a patented blend of plastic. Like other forms of braces, these aligners assert pressure on your teeth to slowly move them into a better position.
Though Invisalign is a solid piece of plastic, they are not to be confused with retainers because the former actively moves your teeth to reshape your mouth and jaw, whilst retainers simply hold your teeth in place.
To get Invisalign treatment, you’ll first have a consultation with your dentist. They’ll study your smile, observe your oral health, and take 3D images and impressions of your mouth and jaw.
Following which, your custom fit aligners will be made. Your orthodontist will also create a treatment plan, and make a series of customized plastic aligners for you.
Invisalign aligner trays are usually replaced every one to two weeks. Each replacement tray will feel slightly different, as they’re each designed to continually shift your teeth.
Your dentist will also serve as your partner and guide in helping you achieve the dental results you desire.
Invisalign not only corrects crooked teeth, but it also corrects malocclusions.
Malocclusion refers to when your teeth are crowded, meaning your teeth are too large for your mouth, or crooked. It can also refer to misaligned upper and lower jaws, and while most malocclusions are treated with orthodontics or braces, some serious cases might require surgery.
Malocclusions can cause a range of dental issues, depending on type and severity. Treatments such as Invisalign can help to prevent future dental issues such as gum recession, bone loss, or chipped teeth.
Here are four types of malocclusions Invisalign can help correct:
Read: Can Invisalign fix my underbite?
While the length of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your case, you could complete your treatment in 6 months. Most Invisalign patients also start seeing results in a matter of weeks!
After assessing your case, your orthodontist will recommend an Invisalign treatment plan that best suits your need.
*Each set lasts one to two weeks.
Similar to other types of orthodontic treatments, you can expect to use a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Retainers can either be removable or cemented to your teeth, and tend to cost roughly $150–$450 per set.
Your orthodontist will introduce different types of retainers to you and explain their pros and cons. They’ll also advise you about how long you’ll need to be wearing your retainers for each day.
The five types of retainers commonly available are:
Each type has different pros and cons in the areas of durability, ease, comfort, and cost. Permanent retainers, on the other hand, are great for patients who might want a more carefree approach to maintaining the alignment of their front teeth.
Studies[2] have consistently shown that when it comes to the correction of mild to moderate malocclusions (imperfect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed) in non-growing patients who do not require tooth extractions, Invisalign is a choice alternative to traditional orthodontic therapy.
Moreover, Invisalign aligners can predictably level, tip, arch expansion and closure of extraction spaces in teeth, similar to traditional fixed braces.
On the other hand, Invisalign may have more limited efficacy when it comes to mesially impacted molars and severely rotated teeth. Your dentist may suggest auxiliaries that, together with the Invisalign treatment, can treat these situations more predictably.
Conversely, Invisalign’s advantage lies in the efficient movement of teeth, and shortened treatment duration[3] as well as visualisation and greater control over the final outcome by the patient.
In conclusion, the real question to ask is not if braces or aligners are better, but which type of orthodontic treatment best suits your needs.
Both aligners and traditional braces come with a level of initial discomfort. But you’ll be happy to know that:
A study[4] has also shown that more patients with fixed braces reported taking painkillers during their first week of treatment than those with aligners.
Read: When is the pain from Invisalign a concern?
Not at all. Be it for adults or teens, Invisalign can be a great solution for those looking to improve their smile in an inconspicuous manner. In the same vein, there is no maximum age limit for Invisalign treatment.
Additionally, younger patients can opt for additional blue wear indicators on the outside of their aligners that will help them ensure they’re wearing their clear aligners for long enough daily.
Here’s the good news: You can eat what you want during the course of your treatment. Because Invisalign aligners are easily removable, there’s usually no need to refrain from your favourite foods.
However, we strongly recommend that you follow these Invisalign do’s and don’ts:
The price of Invisalign treatment in Singapore tends to range from $4,500 to more than $10,000, and largely depends on the type of Invisalign plan (Express, Lite, Moderate, or Comprehensive) that your dentist recommends.
Other factors that affect the cost of Invisalign treatment include:
MediSave in Singapore is only claimable for dental treatments that involve surgery, and for medical reasons. As Invisalign is non-surgical and is considered an aesthetic treatment, it is not claimable by MediSave.
Some types of insurance will cover Invisalign as it is a form of orthodontic treatment. It would be best to bring this up to your dentist during your initial consultation should you want to claim for Invisalign under your insurance plan.
You may also opt to create a monthly payment plan for your Invisalign treatment. This will allow you to make lower payments every month; your dentist will likely ask for a down payment at the beginning of your treatment.
If you think your teeth need some fixing, or simply want a more beautiful smile without going through metal braces, we highly recommend Invisalign. Contact us today to begin your Invisalign journey.
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