Clear braces are the sought after option for those who want their teeth fixed in the most subtle fashion. While traditional metal braces are a happy-option for many, you might prefer a treatment that doesn’t draw attention to your teeth and keeps you looking natural as always. There are multiple ‘invisible’ braces options to choose from in Singapore today, such as the Ceramic Braces, Lingual Braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. We share a useful guide on these 3 braces, comparing them in terms of their invisibility, effectiveness, comfort and price, to help you decide which one is the best for you!
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces use ‘clear’ ceramic brackets instead of metal ones. The brackets are not actually translucent, but the colour of the ceramic blends in so well with your teeth that they appear clear and are less noticeable. These braces still have metal archwires running across to join up the different brackets, which means that they are still visible, just less obvious than regular braces.
Also known as Damon ceramic self-ligating braces, these braces use a special gate-technology that reduces friction and causes less strain on the teeth, making them a relatively comfortable option. However, ceramic braces do have thicker brackets than metal braces which may cause your lips unable to close (depend on the overbite) and slightly protrude – especially in the first weeks before you get used to them.
The gate-technology which allows the wires to shift slightly within the gates allow for the teeth’s natural self-adjustment even in-between monthly appointments, making them a highly effective treatment option as it takes slightly faster than traditional fixed braces. Compared to the other two ‘invisible’ braces treatments, ceramic braces are the least expensive, provided you don’t mind the metal archwire.
Read more: 5 facts you should know about self-ligating braces
Invisalign
Invisalign braces are clear plastic aligners that are worn over your teeth. These aligners ideally be changed every 7 days so that your teeth gradually shift into the ideal position. As they are translucent and fit snugly over your teeth, they appear almost invisible and are truly a great option for those who want to keep their braces subtle to the eye.
Invisalign aligners are likely the most comfortable out of all three because they are fitted over the teeth without any extra bulkiness of metal wires or brackets, and can also be removed especially when you are enjoying your meals or having an important meeting. Still, patients have to wear their Invisalign for at least 22 hours a day for the aligners to work effectively, which means you have to be disciplined enough to keep them on.
Invisalign can treat moderate to the most complex teeth problems. Certain tooth movements are better achieved using Invisalign such as molar distalization to reduce the need for tooth extractions. Cost-wise, these aligners lie in the middle range of the three, slightly more expensive than ceramic braces in Singapore but worth the price for its convenience, hygiene and comfort.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces win for its invisibility! These braces work almost like traditional braces, except that they are fixed to the back instead of the front of the teeth. Attached to the back of the teeth, they are hidden completely from sight so your teeth look completely natural from the outside (unless you open your mouth really wide).
Lingual braces might not be the most comfortable because the tongue rests on the back of the lower teeth, in the same position that the braces are fixed. Patients may feel uncomfortable and irritated by the scratchy metal and develop blisters on their tongue especially in the first few weeks of wearing the braces.
As patients’ demand for straightening teeth aesthetically and comfortably continues to grow, our Orthodontist Specialist has carefully hand-picked the 3M™ Incognito™ lingual braces as her only lingual braces treatment. Instead of thick squared metal brackets, the brackets are made according to the shape of your teeth for maximum comfort during the treatment – slim yet strong for holding teeth. The archwires are robotically bent to ensure accuracy yet efficient movement. These perfectly fitted braces with gold-coated brackets cost from S$14,000 at our orthodontic clinic in Singapore.
Which is best for me, Ceramic, Invisalign or Lingual?
As you decide between ceramic, Invisalign and lingual braces, consider which factor you prioritise most, or even better, find a balance between comfort, look and cost! The best thing you can do is to do some research and speak to your orthodontist to find out which treatment is most suitable for your teeth.
Searching for the best invisible braces solution for your teeth? Get in touch with My Braces Clinic, trusted orthodontic clinic in Singapore, to get a headstart on your braces treatment today!