Over 24% of teeth alignment treatments administered in Australia are invisible braces. Never heard of invisible braces? If you are looking for a straighter, more beautiful smile, it’s time you did.
Invisible braces for adults and teens are the top choice in Australia these days. They are less noticeable and more affordable than regular braces. And they work faster, too.
But what exactly are invisible braces, and how do you know if they are right for your needs? We’re answering all your questions about these innovative braces in this guide, so keep reading!
What Are Invisible Braces?
Invisible braces are also known as clear aligners. There are dozens of brands that make clear aligners. For example, at TLC Dental, we offer brand name aligners from Invisalign and ClearCorrect.
Invisalign was one of the first clear aligner brands to hit the market. Today, it is one of the most well-known brands in the world of invisible braces. However, it can be expensive and does not work for everyone.
ClearCorrect is a more affordable option that came out only a few years after Invisalign. Both brands can treat the same dental issues. Yet, ClearCorrect offers various treatment packages to suit different budgets.
Clear aligners are a lot like retainers. They are translucent trays that mould to the shape of your teeth. Yet, unlike retainers that only maintain your straight smile, invisible braces can actually straighten your teeth.
Invisible braces are a modern alternative to regular metal braces. They are less noticeable and more comfortable to wear. Depending on the state of your smile, clear aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces.
What Are the Benefits of Clear Aligners?
There are countless invisible braces benefits. Straighter teeth can help you avoid gum problems, make it easier to brush and floss, and prevent oral damage. Invisible braces can also treat the following dental issues:
- Misaligned or crooked teeth
- Crowding
- Underbites and overbites
- Gaps
Compared to braces, the benefits of clear aligners are countless. If you are deciding between the two, here are some top reasons why people love invisible braces.
They’re Simpler
Have you ever known anyone with braces? If so, you have probably heard horror stories about how long the initial procedure takes. Then, patients must go back to the dentist periodically for tightening (ouch!).
With invisible braces, the treatment process is streamlined (more on this later). You do not have to return to get new clear aligners, either. Many dentists will ship your new aligners to you directly.
They’re More Affordable
The average cost of metal braces in Australia is $6,000 to $9,000. In many cases, clear aligners are far more affordable. Of course, the exact cost you pay depends on the brand and the number of dental issues you need fixing.
For example, a full set of Invisalign aligners can cost $6,950 at the top end. But the average Invisible braces for adults cost is closer to $5,500. ClearCorrect can be even more affordable for some candidates.
They’re Removable
One of the most attractive aspects of invisible braces is that they are removable. You only have to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. That leaves plenty of room for eating, as well as brushing and flossing.
With the ability to remove your braces, you can improve your oral hygiene. It is easier to care for your smile when massive metal brackets and wires don’t get in your way. Plus, you can even clean your aligners when needed!
They’re Faster
As with costs, the timeline to straighten your teeth with invisible braces vs. traditional braces varies depending on your needs. Yet, clear aligners typically take far less time to straighten teeth than metal braces.
Treatment with metal braces lasts 18–24 months on average. Meanwhile, the longest you will have to wear Invisalign is 11–18 months. More commonly, candidates wear their Invisalign braces for 3–6 months.
They’re More Aesthetically Pleasing
Another top reason people get invisible braces is for aesthetic reasons. Clear aligners are completely see-through. You may find that most people don’t even notice that you are wearing braces!
Traditional braces are the complete opposite. They’re so bulky you can even tell someone has braces when they don’t show their teeth. You’ll feel more confident in your smile when wearing invisible braces.
What to Expect from the Invisible Braces Treatment Process
The first step toward getting a straighter, more beautiful smile is to head to your local dentist for a consultation. Your dentist will ask you questions about your oral issues and goals.
If it’s your first time, the dentist may need to x-ray your mouth and create a mould of your teeth. This mould will then be used to create your custom aligners. The entire process can take less than an hour.
Once you receive your first set of invisible braces, you need to wear them for 22 hours a day. You may remove them when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. You’ll get a new tray in the mail every two weeks.
You will also need to revisit your dentist periodically. The patient downloads an app on their phone which alerts them when they are due to change aligners. All they have to do is take photos of their aligners in place, which the dental staff shows them how to do, in the comfort of their own home. Your dentist then assess those photos and can manage progress, without the patient almost never having to actually come in to the practice. Very convenient and accurate. If there are complications or your teeth move slower than expected, your dentist can adjust your aligners.
Searching for ‘Invisible Braces Dentists Near Me’?
Invisible braces are a more affordable, faster, and better-looking alternative to traditional metal braces. Many adults choose this option to feel better about their smiles while they are on their way to getting straighter teeth.
Are you looking for a dentist who works with Invisalign or ClearCorrect? TLC Dental offers full-service cosmetic dentistry in Sydney. Schedule an appointment at our Martin Place office to get the smile of your dreams today!