In Singapore, a perfect smile is more than just an aesthetic goal as it is also a valuable personal asset. Braces are generally better for complex dental corrections, while clear aligners offer a more discreet and flexible solution for mild to moderate cases.
What Are Braces and Clear Aligners?
Braces and clear aligners both aim to straighten teeth and create healthier, more confident smiles, but they do so using different methods tailored to individual needs and lifestyles.
Traditional braces remain a trusted option, especially for patients with more severe misalignments. They use metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by archwires, which apply controlled forces to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions over time. This precise system allows dentists to correct even complex cases effectively.
Clear aligners, on the other hand, are custom-made trays crafted from transparent thermoplastic. They fit snugly over the teeth, applying gentle, even pressure across the entire surface instead of specific points. Treatment involves progressing through a series of aligner sets, each designed to move teeth step by step toward proper alignment, all while remaining discreet and removable.
What Are the Different Types of Braces
Each type of brace comes with unique features, benefits and limitations. From the durability of metal braces to the near-invisibility of lingual options, the right choice depends not only on dental needs but also on comfort, appearance and daily routine.
Here are the different types of braces to choose from:
Constructed from medical-grade stainless steel, traditional metal braces effectively handle even the most complex dental irregularities. Their durability and precision make them ideal for severe crowding, significant bite corrections and challenging rotations.
Ceramic braces provide a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces while maintaining the same effectiveness. Their tooth-coloured brackets blend naturally with your smile, making them less noticeable during treatment. Especially popular among working professionals in Singapore’s business districts, ceramic braces offer reliable results with greater aesthetic appeal.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces offer one of the most discreet orthodontic options, as they are fixed to the back surfaces of the teeth and remain hidden during everyday interactions. While they provide complete invisibility, their placement is more complex, requiring specialised expertise and often resulting in longer treatment times.
Damon braces introduce self-ligating technology that eliminates traditional rubber bands. This innovative system reduces friction, potentially shortening treatment duration while maintaining comfort. The passive sliding mechanism allows teeth to move more naturally, often requiring fewer adjustment appointments.
What Is Invisalign
Invisalign is a clear aligner system designed to straighten teeth discreetly using SmartTrack thermoplastic. Each aligner is custom-made to gently shift teeth into proper alignment over time. They are worn for most of the day but can be removed for meals, brushing or special occasions. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are smooth, transparent and barely noticeable.
The Differences Between Braces and Aligners
Braces and clear aligners are both effective methods for correcting dental alignment. A closer look at their differences in comfort, appearance and suitability helps patients make an informed decision.
Aesthetic Differences
Appearance plays a major role in choosing between braces and aligners. Some younger patients embrace braces as a fashion statement, while others may find them less suitable in professional or social settings.
- Braces: Metal brackets and wires are clearly visible, creating a traditional “braces look.” While some patients feel self-conscious at first, many adapt and even personalise them with coloured bands.
- Clear Aligners: Made of transparent material, aligners blend with natural teeth and are barely noticeable, even in close conversations. This makes them a preferred choice for working professionals, public speakers or those in client-facing roles.
Comfort and Convenience
Since orthodontic devices are worn daily, comfort and ease of use matter.
- Braces: Initial placement can cause soreness as teeth adjust, and brackets may irritate the cheeks or lips. Eating is more restricted, and cleaning requires special tools to remove trapped food particles.
- Clear Aligners: Smooth, custom-fitted aligners minimise irritation and can be removed for meals, allowing unrestricted food choices. However, they must be worn 20–22 hours per day, removed only for eating, drinking (except water) and oral care.
Treatment Effectiveness
The duration of treatment depends on case complexity, typically ranging from 8–12 months for simple cases to 18–24 months for more complex corrections.
- Braces: Highly effective for severe crowding, bite discrepancies and difficult tooth rotations. Their ability to apply controlled, multidirectional forces makes them the preferred choice for complex cases.
- Clear Aligners: Best suited for mild to moderate irregularities, such as minor spacing, crowding or bite adjustments.
Cost Comparison
In Singapore, orthodontic care is often self-funded, so affordability is a key factor.
- Braces: Costs generally range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on bracket type and case complexity.
- Clear Aligners: Prices typically range from $4,000 to $7,400, with premium brands like Invisalign at the higher end.
Lifestyle and Compliance
Daily habits and discipline strongly influence treatment success.
- Braces: Fixed braces eliminate compliance concerns but require diligent oral hygiene with interdental brushes, floss threaders and antimicrobial rinses. Patients need regular adjustments every 4–6 weeks.
- Clear Aligners: Aligners require consistent discipline—cleaning with solutions or gentle brushing and ensuring they are worn most of the day. Lost or damaged trays can delay progress and add replacement costs.
Age and Suitability
Age and lifestyle often determine which treatment works best.
- Braces: Often recommended for younger patients, as they do not rely on patient compliance. Children can personalise their braces with coloured bands, making the experience more engaging.
- Clear Aligners: More popular among adults who prefer discreet treatment. The removable design accommodates professional and social activities, and adults are typically more disciplined in wearing aligners as prescribed.
Conclusion
Both braces and clear aligners remain highly effective orthodontic solutions, each with unique strengths to suit different lifestyles and treatment needs. The right choice ultimately depends on the complexity of your case, your daily routine and your long-term goals, which is why consulting an experienced orthodontist is the best way to determine the treatment that will give you a healthy, confident smile.
You may schedule a consultation at our clinic to discuss the right type of alignment treatment. Headed by Dr Ang Poh Kang, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the ideal smile you want. Contact our clinic today to schedule an appointment.
