What are Invisible Braces?

Invisible braces are a modern orthodontic treatment solution designed to straighten teeth without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces. They provide a discreet solution for people to achieve a beautiful smile, which has made them popular among adults and teenagers.

Types of Invisible Braces

types of invisible bracesinvisible braces types

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They are usually made from transparent plastic, making them virtually invisible. Brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect are well-known for their clear aligner products. You would typically receive a series of aligners that you switch out every few weeks to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces but are placed on the inside (tongue side) of the teeth, so they are invisible from the outside. They consist of brackets and wires, just like regular braces, but are custom-made to fit the contours of the back of your teeth. This makes them a less visible option if you need more significant adjustments than clear aligners can provide.

Benefits of Invisible Dental Braces

Invisible braces offer several benefits, including:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: They are far less noticeable than traditional braces – almost completely invisible.
  • Comfort: These braces are less likely to irritate gums and cheeks because they are smooth.
  • Convenience: Clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene.
  • Effective Treatment: Both clear aligners and lingual braces can effectively treat a variety of orthodontic issues.

Invisible Braces Before and After

Who is a good candidate for Invisible Braces?

You’re a good candidate for invisible braces if you have mild to moderate dental issues, like:

  • Crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Crowded teeth

You should also be committed to following your orthodontist’s instructions because compliance and consistency are crucial for successful treatment.

The Invisible Braces Treatment Process

the invisible braces treatment processthe invisible braces

1. Consultation

The first step is a consultation with an orthodontist, who will assess your teeth and discuss your treatment options. They will determine if you’re a good candidate for invisible braces and which type is best for you.

2. Custom Aligner or Brace Fabrication

Once you decide to proceed, your orthodontist will take X-rays and a scan of your teeth. These records are used to create a custom treatment plan and to fabricate your aligners or lingual braces.

3. Wearing the Aligners/Braces

For clear aligners, you’ll receive a series of trays to wear over your teeth. You’ll need to wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks before moving on to the next set. Lingual braces are bonded to the back of your teeth and are adjusted periodically by your orthodontist.

4. Refinements and Retention

After the initial treatment phase, you may need some adjustments or refinements to achieve the best results. Once your teeth are in their desired positions, you’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Each case is unique, so be sure to follow your dentist’s after-care instructions as best you can.

Wearing and Maintaining your Invisible Braces

Clear Aligners

  • Daily Wear: Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Only remove your aligners to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
  • Cleaning: Clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap. Avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic.
  • Switching Aligners: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions on when to switch to a new set of aligners, typically every 2 weeks.
  • Storage: Always store your aligners in their case when you’re not using them. This will prevent loss or damage.

Lingual Braces

  • Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss carefully to avoid plaque build-up around the braces. Consider using an interdental brush or water flosser for thorough cleaning.
  • Diet: Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage the braces or get stuck in them.
  • Comfort: Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that might irritate your tongue.
  • Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with your orthodontist to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.

Invisible Braces Cost

Invisalign clear aligners typically start from $5,900, while lingual braces start from $5,000. The cost of invisible braces can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of braces, the complexity of your case, and your location. Here’s a general breakdown:

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners typically range from $5,900 to $10,000. The total cost includes the initial consultation, the aligners, follow-up visits, and any necessary refinements.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are often more expensive due to their custom nature and the expertise required for fitting. They can cost between $5,000 and $13,000.

Note: Pricing is indicative only of an average cost. Pricing can vary depending on the medical condition and requirements of the patient, as well as the materials used.

Factors Influencing Cost

  • Treatment Complexity: More complex cases require longer treatment and more aligners or adjustments.
  • Orthodontist’s Expertise: More experienced orthodontists may charge higher fees.
  • Location: Costs can vary significantly based on the cost of living in your area.

Insurance can sometimes help cover a portion of the cost, so it’s important to check with your provider.

Comparing different orthodontic options

Traditional Braces vs Invisible Braces

  • Visibility: Traditional braces are highly visible, while invisible braces offer a discreet option.
  • Comfort: Clear aligners are generally more comfortable than metal braces, which can cause irritation.
  • Treatment Time: Treatment time can vary based on individual cases, but traditional braces often work faster for severe cases.

Clear Aligners vs Lingual Braces

  • Convenience: Clear aligners are removable and offer more flexibility, while lingual braces are fixed and require less daily maintenance.
  • Efficacy: Lingual braces can handle more complex cases that clear aligners might not address as effectively.

What are Invisible Braces FAQs

Are Invisible Braces as effective as traditional Braces?

Yes, invisible braces can be as effective as traditional braces for many orthodontic issues. The effectiveness depends on the complexity of your case and how well you follow your treatment plan.

Can I eat and drink with Invisible Braces?

With clear aligners, you must remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. Lingual braces, like traditional braces, require careful attention to avoid certain foods that can damage the brackets and wires.

Are Invisible Braces covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of invisible braces, similar to traditional braces. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

What are the alternatives to Invisible Braces?

While invisible braces are a popular choice, there are several alternatives if you're looking to straighten your teeth:

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. They use metal brackets and wires to move teeth into place. These braces are highly effective for all kinds of orthodontic issues, from simple to complex. They are often the fastest way to correct severe misalignments, but they are also the most noticeable.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work like traditional metal braces but use clear or tooth-coloured brackets, which make them less visible. They blend in with your teeth and offer a more aesthetic option compared to metal braces. However, ceramic braces can be more fragile and may stain if not cared for properly.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional braces but use a different mechanism to hold the wire in place. They have a built-in clip instead of elastic bands, which reduces friction and can shorten treatment time. These braces can be metal or ceramic.

Prepare for sparkling teeth and shiny confidence.

Book now at JC Dental for dental cleaning Perth and Como.
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