Who is Suitable for Invisalign? Everything You Need to Know
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment and have heard about Invisalign in Singapore, you may be wondering whether it’s the right option for you. You may also be itching to ask, what is the cost of Invisalign in Singapore?
Now, Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth gradually. These aligners are custom-made using 3D imaging technology and are designed to shift your teeth into a better position over time.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be easily removed when eating or brushing your teeth. The aligners are made of a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, which ensures a snug fit and gentle, controlled force to reposition your teeth.
Patients usually switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, with treatment typically taking 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Invisalign is suitable for both teenagers and adults and is often recommended for those who prefer a discreet, flexible way of straightening their teeth.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign works by applying continuous, gentle pressure to move your teeth into the desired position. Here’s what you can typically expect with Invisalign in Singapore:
- Initial Consultation: The first step is to consult with an Invisalign-trained dentist or orthodontist. During this consultation, the professional will determine whether Invisalign is a suitable option for your specific dental needs.
- Custom Treatment Plan: If you’re a good candidate, the dentist will take digital scans or impressions of your teeth to create a 3D model. This model is then used to design a custom treatment plan, which predicts how your teeth will move throughout the process.
- Wearing the Aligners: You’ll be given a series of aligners, each slightly different, which must be worn in sequence. Typically, each aligner is worn for about 20-22 hours a day, and you’ll switch to the next one every one to two weeks.
- Monitoring Progress: Throughout your treatment, you will need regular checkups with your dentist or orthodontist to ensure everything is progressing as planned. Your dentist will give you the specific dates for all he appointments.
Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign is a versatile treatment but as is the case with any other orthodontic treatment, it’s not for everyone. Below are some conditions and characteristics that may make you a good candidate for Invisalign.
- Mild to Moderate Crowding: Invisalign works well for individuals with mild to moderate crowding. Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate all of the teeth, which causes them to overlap. Invisalign can effectively create space by slowly repositioning the teeth.
- Gaps between Teeth: Invisalign is ideal for closing gaps between teeth. These gaps can be caused by abnormal growth of the jawbone, missing teeth, or other factors. The aligners help shift the teeth into a more aligned position to close the gaps over time.
- Misalignment Issues: People with mild to moderate misalignment issues, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, can benefit from Invisalign. Misalignment affects the way your upper and lower teeth fit together and can lead to issues such as difficulty chewing or speech problems. Invisalign can help correct these bite problems by applying consistent pressure to reposition the teeth.
- Adults and Teenagers: Invisalign is suitable for both adults and teens. There is even a specific type of Invisalign—called Invisalign Teen—that’s designed for teenagers. It comes with additional features, such as eruption tabs, that can accommodate teeth that are still growing in, and compliance indicators to help monitor wear time.
- If you’re Seeking a Discreet Option: One of Invisalign’s biggest advantages is its discreet nature. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for people who are concerned about the aesthetic appearance of traditional braces. This is especially true for adults who want to straighten their teeth without it being obvious.
- If you can Commit to Wearing Aligners: A good candidate for Invisalign in Singapore must be committed to wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours per day. The success of the treatment largely depends on patient compliance. Aligners need to be worn consistently and only removed for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and brushing. Patients who don’t follow these guidelines might find that their treatment takes longer or is less effective.
Who is not Suitable for Invisalign?
While Invisalign is highly effective for many people, it is not the best choice for everyone. Here are some situations where Invisalign may not be suitable:
- Severe Orthodontic Issues: Invisalign has its limitations when it comes to addressing severe orthodontic issues. People with extreme overbite, underbite, or crossbite may need more intensive treatment, which might involve traditional braces or even jaw surgery to correct the problem.
- Young Children: Since Invisalign aligners are removable, they require discipline and proper care. This makes them unsuitable for young children who may not have the responsibility needed to wear and take care of the aligners properly. Invisalign is better suited for older teens and adults who can commit to the requirements of the treatment.
- Complex Tooth Movements: Some complex tooth movements are difficult to achieve with clear aligners. These include major tooth rotations or moving teeth vertically. In such cases, traditional braces may be more effective as they can exert greater force and provide more precise control over tooth movement.
- Poor Oral Health: Invisalign is not recommended for individuals with poor oral health. Problems such as untreated cavities or gum disease must be addressed before starting Invisalign treatment. Wearing aligners over unhealthy gums or decayed teeth can exacerbate these issues and lead to more serious complications. For those looking for dental care products and supplements to support their oral health before treatment, Amazon.com offers a variety of options.
- Non-Compliant Patients: Invisalign requires a high level of commitment. Patients who are unlikely to wear the aligners as prescribed might not be suitable candidates. For those who are not compliant, the treatment might not be effective, leading to a less-than-ideal outcome.
- Severe Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Severe teeth grinding can damage the aligners and make Invisalign less effective. However, in some cases, it can still be used with specific adjustments and careful monitoring by the dentist.
The Bottom Line
Invisalign is a great option for those seeking a discreet, comfortable, and effective way to straighten their teeth. However, it’s crucial to determine whether it’s the right choice for your particular dental needs.
If you think Invisalign might be right for you, consult with your orthodontist to discuss your specific dental needs. They will be able to assess your dental health and discuss the best treatment options based on your unique situation. If you’re in Singapore and ready for an appointment with a skilled orthodontist, call or visit us at;
Dennis Tan Dental Surgery – Veneers | Teeth Whitening | Dental Crowns Singapore
22 Malacca St, #03-01 RB Capital Building,
Singapore 048980
+65 6438 5622
