What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a globally established orthodontic system that is known for its clear and invisible braces. Made out of clear plastic, the invisible braces are designed to realign the teeth and correct malocclusions, all without the use of visible wires and brackets commonly associated with most braces.
Started by Align Technology in 1999, these clear braces are removable, invisible to the eye, and very comfortable, which means your day-to-day living does not need to take a hit! Its rapidly increasing popularity testifies to Invisalign’s efficacy and reliability in helping individuals achieve functional and good aesthetic outcomes.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign utilises 3D data and technology to plan and time the repositioning of your teeth. With the data collected and analysed, the aligners are then designed to exert gentle yet consistent pressure on your teeth to get them to straighten out. The treatment process starts with the orthodontist capturing your current teeth anatomy using either a digital scan to obtain a 3D image, or a rubber impression where a viscous material is loaded onto a tray and pressed against your teeth and allowed to set. Once the orthodontist has studied and measured the severity of your malocclusion, a set of clear braces will be made for you at the laboratory.
Your aligners are one-of-a-kind and customised to comfortably fit your teeth anatomy. The procedure will repeat a couple of times over the course of the treatment process. Since each aligner can only move the teeth over a limited distance, further aligners are required to change the position of your teeth towards the final position, in a gradual and gentle manner.
Advantages of Invisalign
Virtually invisible
- Invisalign’s clear braces are almost invisible, offering an aesthetic solution for those who are self-conscious about their looks.
- Invisalign’s clear braces are almost invisible, offering an aesthetic solution for those who are self-conscious about their looks.
No dietary restrictions
- You do not have to avoid your favourite foods. As these aligners are removable, you need not make considerable adjustments to your existing diet. All you need to do is remove them before eating or drinking.
- You do not have to avoid your favourite foods. As these aligners are removable, you need not make considerable adjustments to your existing diet. All you need to do is remove them before eating or drinking.
Easy maintenance of oral hygiene
- Another advantage is that the aligners are removable when desired, so that you are able to floss and brush your teeth like usual without any obstruction. Hence, as compared to conventional braces, you would experience a reduced risk of plaque build-up, thus leading to a reduced chance of developing gingivitis and tooth decay.
- Another advantage is that the aligners are removable when desired, so that you are able to floss and brush your teeth like usual without any obstruction. Hence, as compared to conventional braces, you would experience a reduced risk of plaque build-up, thus leading to a reduced chance of developing gingivitis and tooth decay.
Comfort
- Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic material, which reduces the likelihood of irritation or discomfort often associated with metal braces. There are no wires or brackets to cause abrasions or poking inside the mouth.
- Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic material, which reduces the likelihood of irritation or discomfort often associated with metal braces. There are no wires or brackets to cause abrasions or poking inside the mouth.
Convenience
- The need for frequent orthodontic adjustments is reduced with Invisalign. Patients are typically scheduled to visit us every six to eight to receive the next sets of aligners and for progress checks, which is less frequent than for other braces treatments, which require visits once every four to six weeks.
For Invisalign to be effective, you will have to put them on every single day for up to 22 hours. You only remove them before mealtimes or when brushing your teeth. It is also recommended to reduce the intake of sugary and fizzy beverages as they will collect in between the aligner and teeth, resulting in an increased chance of developing tooth decay and stains.
How much do Invisalign braces cost in Singapore?
Depending on the dental clinic you visit and the condition of your teeth, the Invisalign braces can cost anywhere from $4000 to $9,000. Besides the cost of clear braces, you will also need to factor in the expense of pre-treatment assessments such as tooth extractions when needed, dental X-rays, as well as post-treatment retainers, when considering the costs.
At BigSmile Dental, we focus on the benefits of Invisalign to help you achieve a confident smile without having to go through the wearing of conventional braces for a couple of years. It is crucial to note that while Invisalign is the ideal aesthetic alternative to traditional braces, they are by no means the universal solution to your needs. Hence, it is vital to discuss with a dentist or orthodontist in Singapore to know what the best treatment plan is for you.
We will guide you through resolving your dental problems and recommend the best treatment procedure, along with the cost and ways to maintain the braces. The cost of such invisible braces can be rather high in Singapore; therefore, we offer various payment methods, such as instalments.
You no longer have to suffer through the pain and discomfort to achieve straight and beautiful teeth! Let us help you smile beautifully and radiantly. Learn more about our Invisalign braces and its costs, and begin your smile journey today!
Cost Subsidies for Invisalign
Unfortunately, dental braces and orthodontic treatment in Singapore are generally considered elective or cosmetic procedures and are not typically covered under government healthcare subsidy schemes.
MediSave
- MediSave is only claimable for procedures that require dental surgery and are performed due to medical reasons, such as for placing dental implants and surgical wisdom tooth extractions. Non-surgical dental treatment such as braces are not MediSave-claimable.
- MediSave is only claimable for procedures that require dental surgery and are performed due to medical reasons, such as for placing dental implants and surgical wisdom tooth extractions. Non-surgical dental treatment such as braces are not MediSave-claimable.
CHAS
- The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) offers subsidies for selected basic dental services to eligible Singaporeans. These subsidies commonly cater to basic dental procedures like examinations, fillings, and extractions. However, orthodontic treatment like those using braces are typically not covered under this scheme.
- The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) offers subsidies for selected basic dental services to eligible Singaporeans. These subsidies commonly cater to basic dental procedures like examinations, fillings, and extractions. However, orthodontic treatment like those using braces are typically not covered under this scheme.
Insurance Coverage
- Certain private health insurance plans in Singapore may provide coverage or partial support for orthodontic treatment, including dental braces. It’s advisable to contact your insurance provider to better understand the specifics of your coverage.
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FAQ
What is Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign is a teeth-straightening dental treatment in Singapore that uses clear, plastic aligners that gradually aligns the teeth. True to its name, they are virtually invisible. Because they are removable, you can take them out when brushing your teeth, eating, or when attending social gatherings.
This is a great option for those who want straighter teeth but do not want to go for traditional braces. It is also advantageous for those who want straighter teeth without feeling self-conscious about them.
How does Invisalign straighten my teeth?
Invisalign straightens the teeth by pushing them with gentle pressure, similar to what braces do. Because Invisalign trays are custom fit to your teeth, it helps move them to a more optimal position over time. Like braces, while it is not painful, it can feel a little uncomfortable during the adjustment period. However, there is nothing to worry about because it’s an indication that the aligners are working.
Make sure that you wear the Invisalign for no less than 20 hours a day so that the aligners can do their job properly. Consult your dentist in Singapore to get a better idea of what to expect during your treatment.
How quickly do teeth move with Invisalign?
It varies because teeth will shift at different rates for different people. It also depends on the treatment plan made by the dentist and the severity of the orthodontic issues faced by the individual.
For instance, someone who needs to fix a small gap between the front teeth may notice positive changes after a short six week period. On the other hand, crowded or crooked teeth may take more time to correct.
Even if you need only small corrections, Invisalign treatment can be delayed if you do not wear them for at least 20 hours per day. Since they are removable, the commitment can be tricky but following this rule is important for faster results.
What should I avoid doing during my Invisalign treatment?
Like braces, there are some things you should avoid during your Invisalign treatment if you want to see faster, better results:
Don’t play with it: The first few days are usually difficult since you are still getting used to the aligners. After that, you will hardly notice them at all. It’s crucial to leave them alone when you are getting used to them. Avoid using your tongue to touch the edges of the aligners as it may get scratched.
Don’t leave them in during meals: Before every meal, you have to take a short time to remove the aligners and safely put them inside your aligner case. Eating with them on your teeth can scratch or damage them which will impact the treatment time. If you want to drink while wearing aligners, don’t drink anything but water. This helps to avoid unwanted stains on the aligners.
Don’t forget to brush: Try brushing and flossing as often as you can (preferably every meal) to keep your teeth and aligners clean. If you are not at a place where you can brush and floss, an alternative is to rinse your mouth vigorously several times with warm water.
Is Invisalign cheaper than regular braces?
Orthodontic treatment is highly personalised and the cost depends on the needs and complexity of each individual’s case. The cost varies from clinic to clinic; depending on your requirements, budget, and needs, the best treatment will be recommended to you. The cost of braces range from S$1,100 to S$9,500. Metal braces are the most affordable and remain the standard option, costing around S$1,100 to S$6,400, while Invisalign braces cost about S$3,200 to S$9,500.
What is the difference between Invisalign and lingual braces?
For starters, invisible (lingual) braces costs the most among various types of orthodontic treatments – up to S$12,000 for a standard treatment. The cost of Invisalign is less, going up to S$9,500 for comprehensive treatment.
Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than other regular braces and they are removable. Also, they require less frequent dental visits for adjustments. Lingual braces are attached at the tongue-facing surfaces of the teeth. As such, they can be uncomfortable for the tongue and are challenging to install, adjust, and maintain.
How often do I need to visit my dentist or orthodontist?
Depending on the severity of your orthodontic condition, you will be scheduled to visit your dentist or orthodontist every six to eight weeks for Invisalign treatment, which is less frequent than for other braces treatments, which require visits once every four to six weeks. All you need to do between visits is to ensure that you wear your aligners for at least 22 hours daily and change to the next set after 10-14 days.
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