Why get braces? <br>Braces are orthodontic appliances used by orthodontists to correct teeth alignment. Modern braces have come a long way since 1819. There are many types of braces made of different materials, each with its own pros and cons. <br> <br>Braces can be used to <br> <br>straighten teeth <br>get a better bite <br>develop good oral hygiene <br>improve affected speech caused by a malocclusion <br>get a more beautiful smile and increase your confidence <br>With straight teeth, you can not only brush better and eat well, but you can also have higher self-esteem! <br> <br>Do you need them? <br>It is a misconception that braces are for children and teenagers only. For children, the best time for them to get braces is when all their milk teeth fall out. Many orthodontic issues are easier to solve if detected early, meaning longer treatment time, surgery, and more serious complications can be avoided in the future. Therefore, the best time to get braces is when a child is 10 to 12 years old (for females) and 11 to 13 years old (for males). <br> <br>Adults can definitely benefit from getting braces if they are thinking of correcting any teeth alignment issues, malocclusion, and want to improve aesthetics. <br> <br>How does it work in Singapore? <br>Before you start treatment, you will have to book a consultation with the orthodontist. During the consultation visit, records such as x-rays (orthopantomogram and lateral cephalogram) and teeth study model will be taken to measure and determine the treatment plan. <br> <br>The orthodontist will then discuss the treatment plan with you. This is the time for you to clarify any questions regarding your braces treatment with the orthodontist. <br> <br>One of the most popular questions is “do I need to extract teeth?” Extractions, usually premolars, are required for patients with severe crowding or protrusion of teeth to achieve a more perfect result. The number and teeth are decided based on the type of malocclusion. It is common for patients to take out up to four teeth. <br> <br>During the treatment, you would need to see the orthodontist for adjustments every 3 to 6 weeks. Overtime, you will notice your teeth getting straighter. <br> <br>What types are the best or ideal for you <br>There are many different types of braces in the market. The ones which are most suitable for you depend on your lifestyle needs and preferences. <br> <br>Metal braces: <br> <br>Traditional metal braces comprise of small metal brackets which stick to your teeth and are joined by a metal wire to tighten your teeth. Metal braces are now smaller, more comfortable and sleeker as compared before. <br> <br>The advantages of metal braces are that they are sturdy, able to achieve a detailed finish and suitable for complex cases <br> <br>The disadvantages are that they are more visible and while harder to clean, the cleaning process is manageable by all. <br> <br>Ceramic braces: <br> <br>Ceramic or tooth-coloured braces are produced to look natural and complement the colour of your teeth. To the casual observer, they are barely noticeable. Ceramic braces are ideal for adults who are not suitable for Invisalign but want to improve their smiles. <br> <br>The advantages of ceramic braces are that they are less visible than metal braces, are able to achieve a detailed finish and are suitable for complex cases. However, they are easier to break compared to metal braces. Like metal braces, ceramic braces are harder to clean but patients are still able to clean them well. <br> <br>Damon braces <br>Damon braces, or frictionless systems, were designed to align teeth faster than traditional braces. This is due to the reduction of frictional forces during tooth movement. Studies have shown that the decrease in forces helps to significantly lower the discomfort caused by shifting teeth. This is good news for people who are afraid of the pain caused by braces treatment. <br> <br>The advantage of Damon braces is that they are frictionless, making treatment faster and less painful. They have the same disadvantages as metal and ceramic braces and are more expensive as well. <br> <br>Invisalign <br>As the name suggests, Invisalign is invisible when worn. Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that patients change themselves. This means that they are removable and patients can brush and floss as per usual. They can also continue to enjoy their food! As Invisalign is made up of smooth plastics, patients are less likely to develop ulcers, making it more comfortable. The visits are scheduled every two months, making Invisalign a great choice for working adult patients with busy schedules. <br> <br>Invisalign is the least obvious among all the braces systems. As they can be removed, patients can clean their teeth easily. Invisalign is more comfortable compared to traditional braces as it is made of smooth plastic. However, the disadvantages are the results are less detailed than traditional braces and not advisable for complex cases. The result from Invisalign is highly dependent on patients’ discipline. <br> <br>What dental problems do they address <br>Braces can be used to address various issues such as <br> <br>overbite <br>underbite <br>crooked teeth <br>overcrowded teeth <br>gaps in between teeth <br>crossbite <br>open bite <br>deep bite <br>abnormal teeth growth <br>What to expect <br>Braces are made up of a few components: brackets, wire, modules and molar bands. <br> <br>Metal or ceramic brackets are stuck onto your teeth using a special kind of dental adhesive and they will be there throughout the whole braces treatment. Therefore, it is very important to watch your diet as hard food will cause the braces to break, delaying your completion. <br> <br>The wire is placed over the brackets and tied in place using modules. This is the fun part where you can choose colours to jazz up your braces! If you want your braces to look less noticeable, you can pick silver for metal braces or transparent for ceramic braces. Darker colours are less likely to stain than lighter colours, so you may want to keep it in mind when choosing the colours. <br> <br>Molar bands are the back part of the braces. Before the molar bands can be put on, separators or spacers have to be placed in between the back teeth to create gaps. <br> <br>Once the braces are on, it starts to work its magic and you can expect to see changes to your teeth alignment. The change can happen as early as in the first month. Over time, you can notice your teeth shift into their ideal position. This is possible with adjustments every 3 to 6 weeks. Elastics may also be used during treatment. <br> <br>The average treatment time is 18 to 24 months, assuming you come every month for the adjustment. <br> <br>After the braces are removed, you will have to wear retainers to maintain the teeth in their position. Retainers are to be worn all the time for 6 months, then only at night. This is to prevent the teeth from shifting. <br> <br>How painful is getting braces on? <br>After the braces are put on, you can expect some soreness which is temporary. Generally, painkillers are not needed. A few months later, patients do not experience any soreness as they are used to the braces. <br> <br>What is the cost of having braces? <br>The costs of braces vary widely, depending on the severity of the issue, complexity of the case, and length of treatment. <br> <br>To give you a broad idea, the typical costs of the different types of braces are as follow: <br> <br>Metal braces $3000 to $6000 <br> <br>Ceramic braces $3500 to $6500 <br> <br>Damon braces $4000 to $7000 <br> <br>Invisalign $4500 to $9000 <br> <br>How long will you wear them <br>On average, braces treatment will take around 18 to 24 adjustments. That equates to 1.5 to 2 years assuming you have adjustments every month. However, the actual completion time highly depends on the complexity of the case and cooperation from patients. <br> <br>There are a few things to follow to make sure that you finish braces treatment within the stipulated time frame. <br> <br>Watch your diet to prevent food from breaking the braces. <br>broken braces may cause teeth to shift. Shifted teeth need time to realign into position. <br>Come regularly for your appointments so that the orthodontist will be able to keep your treatment on track. <br>Brush your teeth well. If you don’t, the plague may accumulate causing decalcification. Decalcification results in white marks on your teeth, spoiling the smile you’ve always wanted. <br> <br>Oral hygiene and tips <br>Brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day. <br>Always use an interdental brush after normal toothbrushing as it helps to clean around the brackets. <br>Floss every day. You can floss on the alternate jaw so it is less tedious and you will be less likely to give up. <br>Use Colgate’s phosflur mouth rinse once a day to aid in the prevention of dental cavities. <br>It is recommended to get a cleaning every 3 months to maintain good oral health. <br>About Braces is a clinic that strives to provide high-quality services to our patients. Our braces packages are priced to cater to everyone so that they can have straight teeth and a beautiful smile. <br> <br>Our patients are in the good hands of our skilled orthodontist and dedicated nurses, some of whom have grown with us since the start. We are ready to provide our best knowledge and orthodontic care to you. <br> <br>About Braces also uses the latest technology such as digital scanners and orthodontic software to give patient a more efficient, accurate and comfortable experience. We also have a special programme that will allow patients to view their possible outcomes with treatment. This helps patients decide on the best course of treatment according to their desired goals. <br> <br>Give us a call at 63977177 to enquiry more or to book an appointment! We look forward to hearing from you ? <br> <br>[a]https%3A%2F%2Faboutbraces.org%2Finvisalign%2Fa-complete-guide-to-braces-treatment-in-singapore%2F[/a]

Straightening teeth with Invisalign can be pretty different from traditional braces, but it’s an excellent option for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. <br> <br>First, let us look at the differences between Invisalign and traditional braces. <br> <br>traditional braces vs invisalign <br> <br> <br>Appearance: <br>Traditional braces: They consist of metal or ceramic brackets that are attached to the teeth, connected by wires and, sometimes, rubber bands. The metal brackets and wires are visible when you smile, making them more noticeable. Traditional braces work by applying constant pressure to the teeth, which causes the bone surrounding the teeth to remodel and adapt to the new position. This process can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the severity of the dental issue being treated and the individual patient’s needs. During the treatment, patients are required to visit their orthodontist regularly for adjustments and progress assessments. <br> <br>Invisalign: Invisalign is a modern, innovative orthodontic treatment that offers an alternative to traditional braces. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. Invisalign has gained popularity due to its discreet appearance and the flexibility it offers compared to traditional braces. The treatment is suitable for both teenagers and adults with mild to moderate dental misalignment issues. Invisalign offers several advantages, such as being nearly invisible, allowing for easier oral hygiene, and providing a more comfortable experience compared to traditional braces. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with severe malocclusions or other complex orthodontic issues. The treatment duration and cost may also vary depending on the specific case and individual factors. <br> <br>Removability: <br>Traditional braces: They are fixed to your teeth and can only be removed by your orthodontist. With traditional braces, you’ll have to wear them 24/7 throughout your treatment. <br> <br>Invisalign: The aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Hence, it provides more flexibility and makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene. <br> <br>Comfort: <br>Traditional braces: The brackets and wires can sometimes cause discomfort, irritation, or even injury to the soft tissues inside the mouth. Adjustments made during orthodontic appointments can also cause temporary soreness. <br> <br>Invisalign: The aligners are made of smooth plastic, which is generally more comfortable. There are no sharp edges or wires that could cause irritation. However, some people may experience mild discomfort when changing to a new set of aligners. <br> <br>Effectiveness: <br>Traditional braces: They are highly effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including severe misalignments, crowding, and bite problems. They offer more control over tooth movement, making them suitable for complex cases. <br> <br>Invisalign: They are also effective in treating many orthodontic issues but may not be suitable for very complex cases or severe bite problems. Invisalign is often a better option for mild to moderate misalignments. <br> <br>Cost: <br>Traditional braces: The cost of traditional braces varies depending on the type of braces (metal or ceramic), and the complexity of the case. They are generally more affordable than Invisalign. <br> <br>Invisalign: The cost of Invisalign is typically higher than that of traditional braces, reflecting the custom fabrication of the aligners and the advanced technology involved. <br> <br>Maintenance: <br>Traditional braces: Brushing and flossing can be more challenging with braces, but it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Special tools like interdental brushes and floss threaders can help. You must also watch your diet and avoid certain hard or sticky foods to prevent damaging your braces. <br> <br>Invisalign: Since the aligners are removable, you can brush and floss as usual. You’ll also need to clean your aligners regularly. <br> <br>Life with Invisalign <br>invisalign aligner and model <br> <br>Now that you’re set on Invisalign, here are some points to take note of and tips for living with Invisalign: <br> <br>You’ll need to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day: Invisalign aligners are removable, but you should only take them out when eating or brushing your teeth. That means you’ll need to wear them for most of the day and night because the plastic aligners require constant force to shift the teeth. Be consistent and diligent about wearing your aligners to achieve the best possible results. <br> <br>TIP: Make it a habit to wear the aligners right after eating or brushing your teeth. <br> <br>Keep track of your aligners: Always store your aligners in their case when not in use to avoid misplacing or damaging them. This will also help keep them clean and away from pets or small children who may find them. <br> <br>You’ll need to use a chewie every time after you put on the aligners: A Chewie (or Chewy) is a small cylindrical device made of a soft, pliable material used together with Invisalign or other clear aligners. The chewie helps to seat the aligners more securely on the teeth and can also help improve the fit and effectiveness of the aligners. <br> <br>chewies for invisalign aligners <br> <br>To use a Chewie, a patient bites down on the device for several minutes after they put on the aligners, gently chewing and applying pressure to the aligners. Using the chewie can help push the aligners into the correct position and ensure a snug and perfect fit. <br> <br>TIP: Be systematic when using the chewie (from left to right) for an even pressure throughout the aligners. <br> <br>Orthodontists often provide chewies to their Invisalign patients by including them in the treatment plan, or patients can purchase them separately. They are typically made of a soft, medical-grade plastic material and are disposable when it becomes limp. <br> <br>You may experience some discomfort: Like with any orthodontic treatment, you may experience some discomfort, such as soreness, when you first start wearing your aligners or switch to a new set. The pain is normal, but you can take over-the-counter pain medication to feel better. <br> <br>Change your aligners as instructed: You’ll receive new sets of aligners to change every 1-2 weeks until you next see your orthodontist. You’ll need to wear them in sequence to gradually move your teeth into the desired position. Your orthodontist will provide a schedule for when to change your aligners. Stick to this schedule to ensure that your treatment progresses as planned. <br> <br>TIP: Change your aligners at night before bed to minimise feeling discomfort. <br> <br>You’ll need to avoid certain foods: While you can remove your aligners to eat, you’ll need to avoid certain foods that could damage or break the attachments, such as nuts, ice, or popcorn. <br> <br>Attachments, or buttons, are small tooth-coloured shapes of dental composite material attached to specific teeth during Invisalign treatment. Orthodontists typically remove the attachments when treatment is over or during refinement stages when the teeth have moved into the ideal positions. <br> <br>Invisalign attachments <br> <br>Invisalign attachments are a vital part of the Invisalign treatment process. They can help improve the effectiveness of the treatment by providing additional anchors or force to shift teeth into proper positions. <br> <br>You’ll need to visit your orthodontist regularly: Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make sure your treatment is on track. You’ll need to see them every 4-6 weeks to receive new aligners and check your progress. Attend all of your scheduled orthodontist appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. <br> <br>Your speech may be affected at first: Some people experience a slight lisp or difficulty speaking when they first start wearing their aligners, but this typically disappears within a few days. Your tongue will need time to adjust to the aligners. Wear your aligners consistently so your tongue can learn to speak with them. <br> <br>TIP: Practice speaking and enunciating words to help speed up this process. <br> <br>Overall, living with Invisalign requires some extra care and attention, but it’s an excellent option for people who want to straighten their teeth without the appearance of traditional braces. You can achieve a beautiful, straight smile with proper care and regular orthodontic visits. <br> <br>Life after Invisalign <br>After completing your Invisalign treatment, you can expect straighter, healthier teeth and a more confident smile. However, the work doesn’t stop there. Here are some things to keep in mind as you transition to life after Invisalign: <br> <br>Retainers: After completing the Invisalign treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain the position of your teeth. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on wearing and caring for your retainer, which you must follow to keep your teeth straight. <br> <br> <br> <br>Diet: While undergoing Invisalign treatment, you had to avoid certain foods and drinks that could stain or damage the aligners. After completing treatment, you can enjoy these foods again, but it’s still important to maintain a healthy diet to keep your teeth and gums strong. Avoid eating sugary food, which may cause tooth decay. <br> <br>Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy. <br> <br>Follow-up appointments: After completing your Invisalign treatment, you will still need to see your orthodontist for follow-up appointments to ensure that your teeth are maintaining their position. Be sure to attend these appointments to maintain the health of your teeth and the longevity of your Invisalign results. <br> <br>Confidence: One of the most significant benefits of Invisalign treatment is the confidence that comes with having a straighter smile. After completing treatment, you may find that you feel more confident in social and professional settings. <br> <br>In summary, life after Invisalign is about maintaining the health and beauty of your new smile. This is achieved by wearing retainers, good oral hygiene, and regular check-ups with your orthodontist. Embrace your newfound confidence and enjoy your straighter, healthier smile! <br> <br>In fact, there have been numerous studies which show the positive impact on straight teeth and your success in life. These studies suggest that an attractive smile, which includes straight teeth, can influence people’s perceptions and judgments in different situations, including job interviews and career advancement. <br> <br>Oral Health and Well-Being in the United States, American Dental Association (2015): This report found that people with poor oral health and dental appearance were less likely to get hired or promoted compared to those with good oral health and dental aesthetics. <br> <br>A study by Beall Research and Training (2012) found that people with straight teeth were perceived as more successful, smarter, and having more dates than those with crooked teeth. <br> <br>In a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (2008), researchers found that people with an ideal smile were considered more intelligent and had a greater chance of finding a job compared to those with a non-ideal smile. <br> <br>A study published in the Journal of Economic Psychology (2007) investigated the “beauty premium” and “plainness penalty” in the labor market. The study found that attractive individuals enjoyed a wage premium, while less attractive individuals experienced a wage penalty. <br> <br>At About Braces, we provide patients with affordable Invisalign packages to achieve their desired smiles. We understand that starting Invisalign can be daunting to some, so we strive to give our patients the best orthodontic care and feel comfortable while receiving treatment. <br> <br>[a]https%3A%2F%2Faboutbraces.org%2Finvisalign%2Flife-with-and-after-invisalign%2F[/a]