Medical References
Papadimitriou, Aikaterini, et al. "Clinical effectiveness of Invisalign® orthodontic treatment: a systematic review." Progress in orthodontics 19 (2018): 1-24.
Invisalign is a thin clear alignment treatment brand, an orthodontic system that involves transparent, plastic dental braces that are a more comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Building on 25 years of innovation, it treats common dental issues such as gapping, crowding, or having a misaligned bite - shifting teeth gradually to give you a beautiful smile.
If you are considering straightening your teeth, you may have heard about Invisalign. Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that offers a more discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth compared to traditional braces. In this article, we will discuss how Invisalign works, how it compares to traditional braces, how to find a good Invisalign provider in Singapore, and tips for maintaining your Invisalign aligners.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into the desired position through gentle, consistent pressure over time. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, Over the time frame of 12 to 18 months (depends on the complexity of your case) of wearing aligners, the pressure will gradually shift your teeth into alignment, resulting in a straighter and more balanced smile.
A “less conspicuous” orthodontic option, Invisalign is designed to be less noticeable by using clear or tooth-colored materials that blend in with the teeth. The Invisalign treatment program involves wearing a different aligner as you progress through the stages of the treatment. At each stage, your aligner moves solely the necessary teeth using the biomechanics of a gentle “Smartforce” patented by Invisalign. This discrete approach is made possible by CAD-CAM digital dentistry and intraoral scanning.
CAD-CAM digital dentistry technology is used where the Invisalign clinical software system is paired with a unique intraoral scanner, creating a 3D blueprint of your mouth that allows for a precise plan to be developed, which guides the design and production of your custom aligners to effectively move your teeth into the desired position.
Crossbite is a type of teeth misalignment where the upper teeth don't line up properly with the lower teeth. When you have crossbite, you may find it difficult to chew and may suffer from jaw pain, tooth wear, gum disease, headaches, and speech impediments.
Invisalign gently shift misaligned teeth into proper position. This correction helps prevent uneven wear and potential jaw problems.
For anterior (in front of) crossbites affecting front teeth, Invisalign uses small attachments to guide movement. Posterior crossbites involving back teeth may require longer treatment. Your dentist will create a custom plan to tackle your specific crossbite.
Invisalign's precision allows it to target individual teeth needing adjustment. This targeted approach often yields quicker results than traditional braces for crossbites.
An overjet, also known as bucked teeth, occurs when upper front teeth protrude too far forward over your lower teeth. When you have overjet, you may find it difficult to chew and pronounce certain letters or words, have inability to close lips, increased chances of tooth decay, and suffer from jaw pain and sleep apnoea.
Invisalign can effectively reduce this gap between upper and lower teeth. The aligners apply gentle pressure to move protruding teeth back into alignment.
Treatment time varies based on the severity of the overjet. Mild cases may see improvement in a few months. More pronounced overjets could take up to a year or more to correct fully.
Fixing an overjet with Invisalign not only improves your smile but also protects front teeth from damage. It can also alleviate jaw strain and improve overall bite function.
This is not to be confused with an overbite, which is a vertical overlap of the lower teeth by the upper.
An excessive overbite is when your upper front teeth cover too much of your lower front teeth.
Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, breathing difficulties (including sleep apnea), excessive wear on teeth, facial appearance concerns, and jaw pain (TMJ disorder) as well as speech problems can be encountered when you have an overbite.
Invisalign helps solve problems caused by overbite by applying gentle pressure to the teeth so that the bottom jaw is moved forward to align with the top jaw.
The aligners create space by gradually shifting teeth into proper alignment. This process can straighten even severely crooked teeth over time.
For mild crowding, Invisalign often works faster than traditional braces. Complex cases may require additional techniques like interproximal reduction. This involves slightly reshaping teeth to create more room.
Correcting overcrowding improves your smile's appearance and makes oral hygiene easier. Properly aligned teeth are less prone to decay and gum problems.
An underbite, also known as reverse overjet, occurs when lower teeth and jaw sit in front of upper teeth. Invisalign can correct mild to moderate underbites effectively. The aligners work by shifting both upper and lower teeth to achieve proper alignment.
Treatment often involves moving upper teeth forward and lower teeth backward. This process can take 12-18 months on average. Some cases may require attachments or elastic bands for added force.
Fixing an underbite with Invisalign can improve jaw function and facial aesthetics. It also reduces the risk of uneven tooth wear and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
Invisalign is highly effective for closing gaps between teeth. The aligners apply consistent pressure to gradually move teeth together. This closes spaces and creates a more uniform smile.
Treatment time depends on the size and number of gaps. Small spaces may close in a few months. Larger gaps or multiple spaces typically take longer to correct.
Closing gaps not only enhances your smile but also protects your gums. Proper spacing reduces the risk of food getting trapped between teeth, lowering the chance of decay and gum problems.
An open bite occurs when upper and lower teeth don't meet when biting down. Invisalign can effectively close this gap by moving teeth into proper alignment. The aligners apply precise force to shift teeth vertically and horizontally as needed.
Treatment often involves moving front teeth to create proper overlap. This process can take 12-18 months on average. Some cases may require attachments for more complex tooth movements.
Correcting an open bite improves your ability to bite and chew properly. It also reduces strain on jaw joints and can alleviate speech issues linked to open bites.
These clear, customizable, and removable aligners are ideal for adults who want to straighten their teeth comfortably. They serve as a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. This type uses a series of custom-made aligners that you wear for about 22 hours daily. You'll switch to a new set every 1-2 weeks.
Invisalign can be used for a variety of purposes, including crowding and spacing issues, as well as some mild and moderate bite issues, such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
Invisalign Teen is tailored specifically for adolescents. It not only aligns teeth but also addresses jaw growth issues, like a small lower jaw, with its mandibular advancement feature. This feature gently guides the jaw forward while accommodating the eruption of new adult teeth into their correct positions.
Invisalign First is designed for early treatment in young children with a mix of baby and permanent teeth. It helps develop young jaws and arches, making space for existing and incoming permanent teeth. This early intervention can prevent worsening bite issues and correct current alignment problems, ensuring that any future orthodontic treatment is shorter and more straightforward.
Invisalign aligners use SmartTrack® material, a special type of plastic. This material fits your teeth snugly and moves them with gentle, steady pressure.
SmartTrack® was made after testing 260 different materials over 8 years and is . designed to be comfy to wear and easy to put on and take off.
The material is clear, so it's hard for others to see when you're wearing your aligners. It's also strong enough to shift your teeth into the right spots.
ClinCheck® is a special computer program that Invisalign uses to plan your treatment. It uses info from millions of patients to make a plan just for you.
The software makes a 3D model of your teeth. It shows how your teeth will move during treatment. You can see what your smile might look like at the end before you even start.
Your dentist uses ClinCheck® to make sure your treatment plan is right for you. They can adjust it if needed to get the best results for your smile.
SmartForce® is a system of small, tooth-coloured attachments. These bits stick to your teeth and work with your aligners to move your teeth in specific ways.
These attachments help with tricky tooth movements like rotating teeth or moving them up or down. They're hard to see, so most people won't notice them.
SmartForce® makes Invisalign able to fix more complex tooth issues. It can often help you avoid having to wear metal braces.
With Invisalign, a trained dentist guides your whole treatment. They check your progress and make sure everything's on track.
Your dentist will:
Having a dentist guide your treatment means you get expert care throughout. They can spot any issues early and fix them to make sure you get the best results.
Before The Procedure
During The Procedure
After The Procedure
Treatment Management and Maintenance
Proper care of your Invisalign aligners is crucial for successful treatment.
Keep your aligners clean by rinsing them each time you remove them. Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
Oral hygiene is key:
Regular dental check-ups every 6-8 weeks are vital. Your dentist will monitor progress and provide new sets of aligners.
Tips for aligner care:
Be mindful of what you eat. Sticky or hard foods can damage your aligners. Rinse your mouth after sugary drinks to prevent decay.
Wearing your aligners as directed ensures your treatment stays on track. If you lose or break an aligner, contact your dentist immediately.
The Comprehensive plan is ideal for patients with severe tooth misalignment or bite issues. It includes an unlimited number of aligners over 12-24 months. This plan can address complex orthodontic problems like:
You'll wear each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks, visiting your dentist every 6-8 weeks for progress checks. The Comprehensive plan offers the most flexibility and customisation for achieving your desired smile with treatment duration of 2-3 years .
For less severe cases, the Moderate plan provides up to 20 sets of aligners over 5-12 months. This option suits patients with:
The Moderate plan is a cost-effective choice for those needing more than minor adjustments but not requiring full comprehensive treatment. You'll change aligners every 1-2 weeks and have check-ups every 8-10 weeks with treatment duration of 1-2 years.
The Lite plan is designed for minor orthodontic issues, offering up to 14 sets of aligners over 3-6 months. This option is best for:
You'll change aligners weekly and visit your dentist every 4-6 weeks. The Lite plan is a quick and affordable solution for those needing minimal tooth movement with treatment duration of 6 to 12 months.
For the smallest adjustments, the Express plan provides up to 7 sets of aligners over 3 months or less. This plan is perfect for:
While getting Invisalign is not free of risks, at Nuffield Medical SG, we are transparent to our patients regarding these risks to ensure you get a safe Invisalign treatment. Our clinics uphold strict infection control: staff in scrubs and masks, and thorough sanitization after each patient. We further ensure quality with dental nurses receiving official training four times yearly, plus regular in-house sessions. Start your Invisalign treatment by booking consultation with us today.
At Nuffield Dental SG, we go beyond aesthetics, prioritising your health through comprehensive medical assessments. We’re committed to caring for you by using electric motor-driven drills for precise, safe procedures. Book a consultation today to discover the personalized Invisalign plan that suits your needs.
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment in Singapore that uses a series of clear aligners to straighten teeth. The cost of Invisalign treatment depends on:
Price Range:
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary. Get a quote from a dentist or orthodontist.
Unfortunately, there are no government subsidies specifically for Invisalign treatment in Singapore as this is non-surgical and is considered as an aesthetic dental treatment. However, some dental clinics offer payment plans to make the cost more manageable.
You might be able to use your Medisave to cover part of the treatment if it's deemed medically necessary. This is rare and usually only applies to severe cases.
Nuffield Dental accepts these payment methods:
Invisalign Before and After
Regulations prevent us from displaying before and after pictures on our website, but you're welcome to visit our clinic to view these images. Feel free to drop by anytime.
Practise good oral hygiene daily. Brush twice a day, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to prevent decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth movement.
Visit your dentist every 6 months for check-ups and professional cleanings. They can spot potential issues early on.
Address thumb-sucking or dummy use in young children, as these habits can affect tooth alignment.
Wear a mouthguard during sports to protect your teeth from injury or shifting.
Eat a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Have your wisdom teeth evaluated early. Removing them if needed can prevent crowding of other teeth.
Get any missing teeth replaced promptly to stop surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap.
Absolutely. For S$3,000 to S$7,000, you'll enjoy discreet, removable aligners that offer comfort and effectively address various alignment issues.
Studies indicate an effectiveness rate of 90% to 96%. The success rate of Invisalign is generally considered to be high for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Typically, immediately after removing your Invisalign aligners. However, you may feel some mild soreness initially when switching to new aligners.
You might feel a bit of discomfort when you start wearing Invisalign. It's normal to have some soreness as your teeth begin to shift. The good news is that most people find Invisalign less painful than traditional braces.
No. The Invisalign system is an ideal solution for patients of all ages (children, teens, and adults) who are looking to get their teeth straightened discreetly.
No, you can't receive it all at once. You'll be given 3-4 sets at a time, with progress checks every 6-8 weeks to provide new aligners.
Yes, Invisalign treatment may still be possible, but it depends on the amount of restorative dentistry that’s already been done and the complexity of the case.
Invisalign straightens teeth but isn't permanent. To maintain results, wear retainers initially full-time, then at night. Practice good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups, as teeth can shift over time due to aging or other factors. Proper care helps preserve your new smile.
To verify if a doctor is trained in Invisalign, check the official Invisalign website for a list of trained providers, ask to see their certificate, and inquire about their experience. Many clinics display Invisalign credentials and are open to showing before-and-after photos of previous cases.
Invisalign aligners are manufactured by Align Technology in Juarez, Mexico, using advanced 3D printing for precise customization. The facility produces up to 80,000 aligners daily, ensuring quick delivery. Align Technology also has offices in California and subsidiaries in Hong Kong and Australia.
Invisalign is costly due to its use of advanced 3D imaging, custom-made aligners, regular dental check-ups, and orthodontist expertise. Its discreet design demands a premium, while continuous product innovation and substantial marketing expenses also contribute to the price.
Invisalign aligners are replaced every 1-2 weeks, with treatment typically lasting 12-18 months. Afterward, retainers are worn full-time for about 6 months, then at night indefinitely to maintain alignment. Thin retainers last 3-6 months; thicker ones last 3+ years. Follow your orthodontist's guidance for best results.
Wear your Invisalign aligners 20 to 22 hours daily, including while sleeping. Only remove them for eating, drinking (except water), and oral hygiene. Consistent wear is crucial for effective treatment and timely progress.
Wearing Invisalign aligners might temporarily affect your speech, causing a slight lisp as your tongue adjusts. Most adapt within a few days to weeks. To speed up the process, practice speaking aloud. If issues persist after 2-3 weeks, consult your dentist for advice.
Yes, you can and should sleep with Invisalign aligners on, as wearing them 20-22 hours daily, including during sleep, ensures effective treatment. Ensure they fit well, clean them before bed, and rinse your mouth after brushing for comfort. Keeping them overnight is crucial for timely results.
Each smile is unique hence requires a comprehensive assessment to understand your suitability and expectations. Cost, therefore, depends on factors such as your teeth’s condition, size, shape, colour, and bite. So you will receive a customised quote after a consultation with one of Nuffield’s dentists.
Papadimitriou, Aikaterini, et al. "Clinical effectiveness of Invisalign® orthodontic treatment: a systematic review." Progress in orthodontics 19 (2018): 1-24.
Overall, Invisalign offers a more convenient, comfortable, and discreet option for teeth straightening compared to traditional braces. However, it's important to consult with an experienced dentist and Invisalign provider to determine which treatment option is best for your specific case.
Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy your favourite foods without the restrictions of traditional braces. Not to mention allowing you to taste the food without having an appliance in your mouth (eg. braces).
Invisalign treatment is computer-guided, which means you can see a virtual representation of your teeth before and after treatment. This also means that the movements of your teeth are planned out in advance, making the treatment process more predictable and efficient.
Nuffield Dental Seletar
Greenwich V
1 Seletar Road #01-07/08
Singapore 807011
Nuffield Dental Kovan
Simon Plaza
2 Kovan Road #01-03
Singapore 548008
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Serangoon Garden Estate
57 Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555953
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The Domain
914 East Coast Road #01-03
Singapore 459108
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East Village
430 Upper Changi Road #01-64
Singapore 487048
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7 Holland Village Way #03-16
Singapore 275748
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Westgate
3 Gateway Dr #04-32
Singapore 608532
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HarbourFront Centre
1 Maritime Square #02-64A
Singapore 099253
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Novena Medical Centre
10 Sinaran Dr #09-26
Singapore 307506
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Wheelock Place
501 Orchard Road #05-01
Singapore 238880
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One Raffles Place
1 Raffles Place #05-19
Singapore 048616
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Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre. At Nuffield, we put you first. We believe in providing personalised service for each patient.
Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre. Here at Nuffield Dental, we pride ourselves of our personalised oral care for each and every one of our patients. We need to make sure you get all the help you need to make your dental procedures comfortable, accessible and seamless.
Our dentists have a special interest in orthodontic treatments and are accredited Invisalign providers who have been helping patients achieve confident smiles.
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