A perfect smile can impact how you look and feel. If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth but don’t like the idea of metal braces, clear aligners could be the perfect alternative.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about clear aligners, from why they’re a great option to what affects their success and how much they cost in Singapore.
The Risks of Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
While many people think misaligned teeth are just an aesthetic concern, they can actually lead to long-term dental problems if left untreated. Here’s why addressing misalignment is important:
- Increased Risk of Cavities & Gum Disease – Crowded or overlapping teeth give rise to tight spaces that are difficult to clean, becoming a breeding ground for plaque and bacteria. Over time, teeth can decay, gums become inflamed, and may even lead to periodontal disease.
- Jaw Pain & Headaches – When teeth are misaligned, your bite may not function properly, putting excessive stress on the jaw muscles and joints. Overworked jaw muscles can lead to chronic jaw pain and tension headaches, making it uncomfortable to speak, chew, or yawn.
- Speech & Chewing Difficulties – Your teeth have a role in how you pronounce words and break down food. Severe misalignment can cause speech impediments, making certain sounds difficult to articulate. It can also affect the way you chew food, causing digestive issues due to improper food breakdown.
- Increased Wear & Tear – Crooked teeth can cause uneven pressure on certain teeth when biting and chewing, giving way to excessive wear. Over time, your enamel weakens, giving way to cracks and increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity and damage.
- Lower Self-Confidence – A straight, healthy smile can boost your confidence, while crooked teeth may make you feel self-conscious in social or professional settings. Many people with misaligned teeth are too embarrassed to smile or speak freely, impacting their personal and work interactions.
The above risks can be minimised by correcting misalignment with treatments like clear aligners.
Why Choose Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, have become a popular choice for straightening teeth. Unlike metal braces, clear aligners are transparent, so most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
They are made from smooth plastic and don’t have sharp wires or brackets that can irritate. Furthermore, you can take them out when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth, so there’s no need to worry about food getting stuck, like with braces.
What Influences the Success of Clear Aligner Treatments?
While clear aligners are highly effective, their success depends on these factors:
1. Wearing Them Consistently
For the best results, you should wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. Taking them out too often can slow down progress.
2. Following Your Treatment Plan
Each set of aligners is designed to move your teeth gradually. If you don’t switch to the next set as instructed, your treatment may take longer.
3. Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Since aligners fit snugly over your teeth, poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup or bad breath. Regular brushing and flossing are your friends in keeping teeth healthy over the years.
4. Choosing an Experienced Dental Provider
Not all aligner treatments are the same. A skilled dentist will assess your teeth properly and create a customised treatment plan, ensuring better results.
What Is the Cost of Clear Aligners?
In Singapore, cost of clear aligner treatments generally range from $4,000 to $10,000. Simple cases requiring minor adjustments may be on the lower end, while complex cases involving extensive corrections can cost significantly more.
The clinic or provider you choose also affects the total cost of getting clear aligners. Larger chain dental providers may offer lower prices due to higher patient volume. However, you should consider how personalised your treatment is and how quickly you can get an appointment.
With Orchard Scotts Dental, you receive one-on-one attention from skilled dentists who oversee your treatment at every step, and we offer a comfortable and stress-free experience, making your journey to a perfect smile more enjoyable.
Consult Orchard Scotts Dental
Clear aligners offer a comfortable, discreet, and effective way to straighten your teeth and enhance your smile. Whether you’re dealing with mild misalignment or more complex dental issues, aligners can help you achieve the results you want without the hassle of traditional braces.
At Orchard Scotts Dental we are committed to providing quality and tailored care to every patient.
Schedule a consultation with Orchard Scotts Dental to learn more about clear aligner treatment and its cost.