How Invisible Braces Work

Play Video

The Alina Smile Journal

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Transparent Braces: The Solution for Discreet & Effective Teeth Alignment

August 9, 2022
Transparent braces being put in
Transparent braces get you closer to your dream smile, all without the distraction of visible brackets and wires. Learn more here.

Teeth alignment is a process, and it doesn’t happen overnight. With traditional metal braces, it becomes very obvious once you begin your course of alignment, with all the wires and metal suddenly installed in your mouth. This can take a toll on your self-esteem and confidence when in social situations. This is where transparent braces come in.

Modern dentistry has found ways to work around. and in some cases, eliminate the visual awkwardness that comes with metal braces almost completely. Traditional metal braces, while still the most common of teeth alignment methods, are no longer the only option if you want perfectly aligned pearly whites. Read on to learn more about the different types of invisible braces and find out which option is the best for you. 

What are the different types of invisible braces?

In the market today, there are different types of invisible braces available depending on the dental provider you choose to approach. These methods all vary in terms of effectiveness, discreetness, and price points. Below are some of the most popular ways to align your teeth without a jarring change in appearance. 

  1. Ceramic Braces – Ceramic braces are the most similar to traditional braces, but the key difference is that they are made from ceramic rather than metal. This change in material means a change in the appearance of your braces: using ceramic that is much closer to the natural color of your teeth minimizes their appearance and eliminates some of the “metal mouth” look. However, this change in material also means a change in price point, as ceramic is more expensive than metal. Some ceramic braces also still work in tandem with metal wires, which means that they are still quite visible to the people around you.
  1. Lingual Braces – Lingual braces, also sometimes referred to as inside braces, are considered “invisible” not because of the material used but rather because of their placement in your mouth. Lingual braces are often made with the same material as metal braces, so they tend to be less expensive than ceramic braces. These are placed along your dental arch behind your teeth, making it difficult to tell that you are wearing them. However, the downside to lingual braces is that they are considered less effective than traditional metal braces or ceramic braces. Beginning your treatment with lingual braces means that you might need to keep them on for longer. Also, keeping them clean is even more difficult than regular braces.
  1. Transparent braces – Transparent braces or clear aligners are the most unique and innovative way to straighten teeth. Rather than permanently attaching orthodontic gear to your teeth, transparent braces are sets of clear plastic trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth – aligning them throughout the course of treatment in the most discreet and inconspicuous way. Clear braces are also removable, which means that you can eat, drink, and maintain your oral hygiene routine with less hassle. Unlike with traditional metal braces, there are no food restrictions with transparent braces. They are far easier to clean and maintain and with proper compliance to your treatment plan, transparent braces can align your teeth much quicker than other methods of teeth alignment. 

How long do I have to wear transparent braces?

The question of how long you need to wear transparent braces can be answered in two ways: the amount of time you would need to wear them throughout the day, and how long it would take for you to complete your treatment and achieve perfectly aligned teeth. 

  • How long should I wear my transparent braces per day?

Most dental providers recommend that you wear your aligners for most hours of the day. In the case of ALINA aligners, we recommend that you wear them at least 22 hours a day, for best results. However, you can (and should!) take them out to eat and drink, or when you’re brushing and flossing your teeth. If a professional or personal situation arises where you would be more comfortable and confident without your aligners, you can take them out for a short time, but put them back in right away when possible. 

  • How long until I don’t have to wear my transparent braces anymore?

Because all smiles are unique, how long your treatment time with transparent braces will last also depends on how much your teeth need to be moved or rotated. Treatment for relatively simple cases can take less than a year, but may take up to two years or more for severely misaligned teeth. However, because transparent braces fit over your teeth and apply pressure throughout your whole dental arch, treatment time with aligners is often much shorter than with lingual braces or even metal braces. Adults who needed braces as children and whose teeth have become slightly misaligned over the years may need invisible teeth aligners for as little as 10 weeks. 

When selecting your provider, choose one that gives you the ability to truly uncover your smile. Philippines dental clinics provide several options, so it is crucial to do your research before finding the right fit for you.

How much is the cost of transparent braces?

You might spend around PhP180,000 for a set of ALINA aligners. That may sound like quite a bit more than traditional metal braces, but that’s because of the expertise required and the material used for the aligners themselves. Invisible braces prices depend on your case, how long treatment is required, and the number of sets of aligners you might need for the course of your alignment. All this considered, transparent braces are still a worthwhile investment in order for you to get the smile of your dreams and boost your confidence. 

Where can I get transparent braces?

There are quite a few options for transparent braces available on the market, so it is important to consider the quality of materials used as well as the caliber of the clinic you might choose. The best providers will consider your case as unique and provide you with treatment that is customized to cater to you and your needs. With ALINA, dentists not only consider your teeth but also the way that your smile fits in harmony with your facial structure. The results speak for themselves, giving you a more cohesive and harmonious look. Find out more about our holistic and innovative approach to teeth alignment by visiting our how ALINA Works pages.

Conclusion 

Dental treatments and methods of teeth alignment have evolved throughout the years, and innovation means solving the problems of the past in our pursuit of a great smile. Now, attaining a smile that you’re proud of doesn’t require you to bear years and years of your treatment impacting your appearance and confidence. With transparent braces, you’re free to live your life as you always have, all while getting you closer to achieving perfectly aligned pearly whites. Begin uncovering your smile today and book a consult with ALINA. 

How Effective are Removable Braces?

August 6, 2022
Woman holding removable braces
Removable braces are the future of teeth alignment, providing great results and a clean look. Learn more about how they work here.

A great smile can work  wonders for your appearance, charisma, and confidence. This is why it’s so important to have great oral health, which, in turn, is affected by a number of different factors. The overall look of your smile is a combination of different components, and to have a great smile, you need to think about the size, shape, color, and of course, alignment of your teeth. This is where removable braces come in.

When it comes to teeth alignment, there are numerous options available on the market. From traditional braces to space-age plastic aligners, these methods all vary in technique, ease of use, price range, and effectiveness. However, there are very few that are as effective, convenient, discreet, and time-efficient as removable braces. 

What are removable braces?

Out of the most common types of braces, removable braces are the most unique, as they are not fixed orthodontic gear and are typically much easier to manage throughout your treatment. They require fewer and less frequent dental visits, and for many cases, a shorter treatment period to achieve that beautiful smile. While they are more expensive than other teeth alignment methods, for many patients, the results they create are more than worth the expense.

In principle, removable braces function similarly to other methods of teeth alignment with a few key differences that set them apart. Removable braces are a set of clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth and are custom-made to fit you. These trays apply constant pressure to your teeth, moving them slowly and gently into their optimal positions. 

As your treatment progresses, your dental provider will prescribe you new sets of aligners to periodically realign your teeth as they move. This brings you closer and closer to your most ideal smile. Because removable braces apply pressure all throughout your teeth, having your teeth aligned using them often takes much faster than traditional metal braces. 

What are the advantages of removable braces?

As the newest, most innovative method of teeth alignment available on the market today, removable braces have several advantages that make them a more appealing option. Invisible braces prices might vary from case to case, but it’s a worthwhile investment when considering the difference it can make on your life and your smile. The advantages of removable braces include the following:

  • They are nearly invisible. – Because they are made of clear plastic trays rather than opaque metal or ceramic, removable braces are significantly less conspicuous than any other option. This means you’ll be able to keep your pristine look, with no distracting metal bits in your mouth, all throughout your treatment.
  • They are removable. – Apart from being inconspicuous, removable braces are also less intrusive on your lifestyle. Unlike metal braces, you can (and should!) remove them when eating or drinking, which also means that you don’t have any food and diet restrictions while being treated. 
  • They require a shorter period of treatment. – With proper compliance to the treatment, removable braces often work quickly to align your teeth. They also require less frequent visits to your dentist, unlike the regular visits and adjustments required by other alignment methods.
  • They reduce the risk of oral hygiene problems during treatment. – Being able to remove your aligners means it’s much easier to perform your oral hygiene routine, giving you the ability to regularly brush and floss with ease. Unlike fixed orthodontic gear such as metal or ceramic braces, removable braces give you the liberty of taking out your aligners as needed, meaning you don’t have to work around them to maintain your oral hygiene. This minimizes the risk of your teeth suffering as a result of your treatment. 
  • They are easy to clean. – Apart from making it easier to clean your teeth, removable braces are easy to clean themselves. Regular cleaning of your removable braces also contributes to healthy oral hygiene.
Woman holding removable braces

Which teeth conditions can removable braces fix?

Removable braces are just as, if not more effective than more traditional braces designs. They can repair almost every common tooth misalignment issue, including:

Open Bite – In this tooth misalignment condition, the patient’s incisors, or front teeth, do not meet, leaving a gap between them. In severe cases of open bite, even the teeth beside the incisors, referred to as the canines, fail to meet as well.

Tooth crowding – Also known as crooked teeth, this condition causes teeth to rub and bump into one another due to insufficient space in the mouth. This may happen once a patient’s third molars, popularly known as “wisdom teeth”, come in.  This condition often creates crannies and food traps, making teeth difficult to clean and more hospitable to cavity-causing bacteria.

Diastema – The opposite of tooth crowding. Diastema is a condition wherein large, visible gaps occur between the teeth. If left untreated, the gaps may trap food particles and encourage bacterial growth, resulting in poor oral hygiene, cavities, and a host of other dental issues.

Crossbite – A misalignment of the teeth wherein the upper teeth sit behind the lower ones. This condition can be inconvenient and bothersome and can result in frequent biting of the cheeks and lips.

How often do you need to wear removable braces?

For best results, we recommend that you wear your ALINA aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Whenever you visit your dentist, they will usually check up on your progress until you are ready to move on to the next set of aligners until your treatment plan is successfully completed. 

Where can you get removable braces?

While there are a few options for removable braces in the Philippines, the best providers of them will consider your case as unique and treat you as such: with care and expertise. With ALINA, dentists will not only consider your teeth but also your facial structure and how best to align your teeth in a way that will uncover your most beautiful smile. To learn more about our unique and innovative approach towards teeth alignment, take a look at our How ALINA Works pages.

Conclusion

A great smile can work wonders for your appearance and charisma, and it all starts with great teeth. Having pearly whites that align perfectly will improve your confidence, giving you the boost you need to take on the world. Begin your journey to a better smile and book a consult with ALINA today.

 

5 Things You Need to Know about Clear Braces

August 4, 2022
Hand holding clear braces
Curious about what to expect when being fitted for clear braces? Here’s everything you need to know.

While braces made out of metal wires and brackets may have been the standard for teeth straightening since their invention in 1819, many people who have used them have expressed dissatisfaction with them. Much of this dissatisfaction stems from their look: No one actually likes the look of having a mouth full of wires and brackets that interrupt an otherwise lovely smile.

In response, orthodontists have developed clear braces and a host of other orthodontic appliances that work just as well as traditional braces, but aren’t as, ahem, distracting. Here’s what you need to know about them.

What are Clear Braces?

Clear braces work just like conventional metal braces; that is, they use wires and brackets that are under constant tension to move teeth slowly into their proper position. However, clear braces are made from transparent plastics, clear wires, and sometimes from ceramics as well.

By carefully placing the brackets on the teeth and tightening the wires, your orthodontist can cause your teeth to move in any direction until they’re properly aligned. Typically, those who wear braces usually have them in for between 18 and 24 months, although this depends on the severity of the case.

Also, anyone looking for a more understated tooth straightening option may want to explore clear plastic aligners. These are custom-made metal trays that fit on top of and around the teeth, slowly spacing them and moving them into better position. These will be discussed more in the following section.

What are the different types of clear braces?

If we’re using “clear braces” as an umbrella term for all kinds of orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth but are difficult to see, then there are several kinds of clear braces. These differ in the materials they’re made from and how they’re designed to work, but all of them straighten teeth and are meant to be less obvious than traditional metal braces.

Ceramic braces

We’ve discussed ceramic braces pretty extensively so far, but some other things that you should know about them: The brackets that are used for these braces tend to be a bit smaller than metal ones, and since they’re also close in color to the teeth themselves, they’re much less conspicuous than metal braces. They usually feature metal wires, but certain designs may have white wires that are less visible. Finally, the bonding agent used to affix the ceramic brackets is usually gentler than the substance used for metal ones, so removing them is a bit easier.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are more or less identical to metal braces in every way, except for one major difference: While metal braces have brackets that are affixed to the front of the teeth, lingual braces are affixed to the back of the teeth, in the interior of the mouth. These aren’t technically “clear” braces, but they do serve the same purpose and fulfill the same objectives that clear braces do. However, these can be difficult to clean, and because they’re close to the soft tissues of the palate and the underside of the tongue, they can cause mouth wounds and sores more frequently.  

Clear aligners

Clear aligners have become the popular choice for people who want versatility and subtlety while also achieving great-looking results when it comes to straightening their teeth. These are made from a high-tech plastic that has just the right balance of rigidity and flexibility, fitting snugly around the teeth to move them into their proper positions slowly and gently. The whole treatment plan features a series of trays that the user swaps out about every week or so.

clear braces on teeth

What are the reasons to choose clear braces?

Clear braces, aligners, and even lingual braces provide some definite advantages over traditional braces

1. Clear braces can give you a boost in confidence

Let’s face it: Metal braces are kind of a buzzkill. They’re very conspicuous and can cause users to feel self-conscious about speaking or appearing in public. This can become complicated, especially for employed people who have to make presentations or take meetings regularly.

Clear braces do away with all that awkwardness. They can even give users a shot of confidence, knowing that they can look their best while also working towards creating their most beautiful smile.

2. Clear braces produce great results

While clear braces are a subtler option than traditional ones, this doesn’t mean they aren’t effective at repairing almost every tooth alignment issue. The truth is, they work just as well at fixing common orthodontic issues, including gaps, overcrowding, overbites, and underbites.

3. Better oral health overall

Having straighter teeth has many other oral health benefits and isn’t done just for aesthetic purposes. Keeping teeth from crowding and eventually grinding into one another prevents them from wearing away. Reducing the gaps between them decreases the likelihood of food particles getting trapped between teeth and developing cavities.

How much is clear braces in the Philippines?

Clear braces, aligners, and lingual braces all have different price points in the Philippines. For clear or ceramic braces, these often cost more than traditional braces, as the material needed for them is more expensive than the materials used for metal braces. Expect to spend between Php 80,000 and Php100,000 for ceramic or clear braces.

Clear aligners are the top-shelf item among the three clear braces options we’ve discussed here, and can cost up to Php250,000 or more, depending on how complex the case is. Thankfully, with ALINA aligners, you can get flexible payment options that will help you manage your costs.

Finally, lingual braces are often difficult to adjust and install, and require specialized training on the part of the orthodontist to put in. These can cost Php 80,000 or more.

Invisible braces prices definitely vary greatly, so choose the best one for you and your lifestyle.

Invisible Braces and ALINA

ALINA aligners are different from all other designs of invisible braces and aligners. Our designs start with AlinaSmile technology, a 3D scan of the entire head and face that considers all features to determine the patient’s most beautiful smile. Then, the trays are molded out of space-age materials to move the teeth into their ideal position. Over a million people in the US and Canada have been able to uncover their smiles with the help of ALINA, and now, Filipinos can start uncovering theirs too. This is just an overview of how ALINA works

Book a consult today and get started on your journey to your most beautiful smile today!

How to Keep Your Mouth Fresh When Using Invisible Aligners

August 1, 2022
woman checking for bad breath
Dry mouth and bad breath can be pain points when you wear invisible aligners. Here are some helpful tips to prevent them.

You might have experienced waking up with a dry mouth and bad breath after wearing your invisible aligners all night. This is mainly because your mouth is irritated by the presence of a foreign object, causing it to produce less saliva which is your mouth’s defense against bacteria.

 While this does not happen to all patients, it can still be a hassle, especially for first-timers. Dryness in the mouth and the self-consciousness that comes with having what might be bad breath can make wearing aligners difficult for the prescribed 20 or more hours. 

 If you are worried that this can affect your overall teeth alignment treatment using invisible aligners, you can relax a bit. These conditions are totally manageable and a few common-sense steps will allow you to uncover your smile in the way that you want to.

 Keep reading to learn effective ways to manage dry mouth and bad breath and make your experience with aligners more pleasant and enjoyable.

 

What Causes Invisible Aligners Dry Mouth?

 

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common side effect experienced by people who wear any type of orthodontic appliance, including invisible aligners. These orthodontic treatments are unnatural for the body, so when wearing them, the body’s initial reaction is to reduce the production of saliva in the mouth.

 When you wear your aligner, your mouth will feel drier than normal which eventually leads to irritation and gum-swelling. You might also notice that you feel more parched and dehydrated while wearing your aligners.

 Persistent dry mouth can also cause a number of other inconveniences, including difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Additionally, it can put your overall oral health at higher risk for more serious conditions like tooth decay or infection.

 

Why Does Invisible Aligners Cause Bad Breath?

Another possible unwanted side effect of wearing your aligners is bad breath or halitosis. Some people might think that this is because of the material of the aligners themselves, which is plastic, or because you have to keep the aligner tray in your mouth for at least 20 hours. However, those are not the direct causes of bad breath.

There can be many reasons why you have bad breath, just as there are many sources of bacteria in your mouth. Some causes can be minor, like eating certain foods that are notorious for causing bad breath, such as onions or garlic. On the other hand, bad breath could be caused by serious conditions like odor-causing bacteria in your tongue, periodontal diseases, or even respiratory conditions. 

But in most cases, for invisible aligners users, bad breath is caused by the aforementioned dry mouth. One of the functions of saliva is to rinse the mouth out and remove excess bacteria in it. Because the mouth produces less saliva when wearing an aligner, it becomes much more hospitable to bacteria. The bacterial build-up in the mouth causes the foul smell and might even lead to more serious oral health complications down the road. 

 

happy Asian woman with clear aligner thumbs up

How to Avoid Invisible Aligners Dry Mouth and Bad Breath

 

While a dry mouth and bad breath are common side effects, take note that they are totally manageable. Now that you know what’s causing them, let’s take a look at some good practices to keep their impact to a minimum.

  1.     Drink lots of water

Of course, hydration is key. Even if you have made it a habit to drink plenty of water prior to wearing invisible aligners, you might find yourself drinking more water than usual. Staying hydrated will help maintain a steady saliva flow. We recommend having a water bottle with you at all times, so you won’t have to deal with  dryness in the mouth so much.

  1.     Practice good overall oral hygiene

In general, it’s a good idea for everyone to always practice proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth, ideally after every meal. Remember that food particles tend to embed themselves in the nooks and crannies of the teeth. This can cause many different oral health issues, so make sure to brush and floss thoroughly to keep your overall oral health at its best. Also, do not leave out your tongue from brushing as bacteria tends to  multiply there as  well.  

  1.     Always keep your aligners clean

One important thing that can keep these unpleasant experiences to a minimum is to keep them clean, alllthe time. Bacteria thrive in unhygienic environments, so to prevent your aligners from becoming a hospitable environment for bacterial, be sure to clean them as much as possible. Clean them after meals with lukewarm water (but not hot water, please!) and recommended cleaning materials. Also, avoid eating or drinking anything except water while they are in your mouth.

  1.     Avoid tobacco or caffeine 

You may want to consider eliminating tobacco and caffeine from your routine, as both can contribute greatly to dry mouth or bad breath, especially when wearing invisible aligners. This goes for all types of tobacco (cigarettes, hookah, chewing tobacco, etc.). For coffee lovers, you might want to switch to decaffeinated coffee or tea while you have your aligners. Instead, consider healthy energy-boosting snacks like bananas or whole grains.

  1.     Mouthwash can help

To refresh your mouth and give it a clean, minty feeling, try to include mouthwash in your daily oral hygiene routine. Persistent dry mouth can also be solved with mouthwashes specifically formulated for this condition.

 

Getting aligners? Get it from the best

 

Interested in finding out how ALINA works? Here’s what you need to know. 

ALINA aligners not only allow you to create your most beautiful smile. With our AlinaSmile technology, we analyze your entire face to gently and effectively move your teeth into their optimal positions.  With 30 years of expertise in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, ALINA aligners will give you the best experience, and at invisible aligners prices that will provide exceptional value. Simply book a consult now and get to talk to our dental professionals to see if invisible aligners are the best treatment for your teeth. To know more, contact us directly at 0917-626-5348. 



ALINA’s Clear Invisible Braces: A Better Invisalign Alternative

July 27, 2022
clear invisible braces

Achieving perfect teeth and a confident smile has become much easier and faster these days because of clear invisible braces. Dealing with misaligned teeth does not necessarily mean going through the entire process of getting dental impressions and having metal braces put in anymore.

A fast, comfortable, and effective teeth alignment journey – that’s what you can expect from clear invisible braces.

But first, what are invisible braces?

Invisible braces” is the umbrella term for several orthodontic treatment options, all of which are designed to be less visible in the mouth. These are just as, if not more effective for straightening teeth when compared to traditional metal braces.

While metal braces are undeniably effective, their look may put some people off, especially if they’re older or employed already.

Some people may be hesitant to have their misaligned teeth fixed, as metal braces use brackets, wires, and elastic bands that are attached to your mouth. These can be very distracting and may give users unwanted attention. This may affect the wearer’s confidence and prevent them from living their best lives.

By contrast, invisible braces allow you to achieve proper teeth alignment without worrying about noticeable changes in your appearance. With invisible braces, you can confidently flash that beautiful smile of yours.

Different Types of Invisible Braces and How They Work

There are different types of clear invisible braces, namely: ceramic or clear braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners.

No matter their design, invisible braces can treat common teeth alignment problems such as:

  • Dental crowding or when there is not enough space in the mouth for permanent teeth to properly grow straight
  • Dental gaps or extra space between teeth
  • Bite issues such as:
    • Overbite, or when your front teeth overlap the bottom front teeth more than the normal gap
    • Underbite or when your lower teeth extend farther than your front top teeth
    • Open bite or when your top and bottom front teeth do not bite in the correct position
    • Crossbite; when you close your mouth, some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth or directly on top of them

Although they are all not as noticeable as metal braces and are effective treatments in resolving the above-mentioned dental problems, there are still some big differences between these types of invisible braces. 

1. Ceramic or Clear Braces

These are very similar to fixed metal braces. This design for braces uses brackets, wires, and elastic bands and is also affixed to your teeth. These braces cannot be removed until  your treatment is complete.

The main difference between the two is that ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with the natural color of your teeth, while clear braces are made from a clear plastic material. Ceramic braces help you avoid having a metal mouth look. However, ceramic brackets are prone to staining. They’re also more brittle than metal braces, and may crack if not careful.

2. Lingual Braces

These work the same as metal braces, with all the wires and brackets fixed on your teeth. However, brackets in lingual braces are attached behind your teeth, making them almost impossible to see.

3. Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer a non-invasive and more comfortable teeth alignment treatment. Clear aligners are currently the most popular invisible braces option, as they provide a clean, clear look all throughout treatment.

Clear aligners are made from 3D printed plastic aligner trays that are smooth and light, making them more comfortable to wear compared to metal braces. Their streamlined design also makes them less likely to irritate your lips, tongue, and cheeks.

When using this tooth straightening treatment option, patients will be given a set of plastic aligner trays that are custom-designed for their mouths. Each tray will gradually and carefully move misaligned teeth into a new position, just like traditional braces do.

In the past, dental impressions would be used in the construction of the trays. However, with ALINA aligners, a 3D scan is made of the patient’s skull and jaw, and Ai is used to predict what their best smile might look like. Then, the trays are constructed and will gently move the teeth until they are in their optimal positions.

The number of aligner trays required for your treatment depends on the severity of your case. You will have to wear each tray usually for up to three weeks, and you should wear them for about 22 hours a day.

There are two types of clear aligners: the In-Office Clear Aligners, or those fitted and constructed directly by your orthodontist at their clinics; and At-Home Clear Aligners, where treatment takes place entirely in the comfort of your home.

Invisible Braces vs. Invisalign

Invisible braces are less noticeable compared to metal braces. However, when it comes to these three types of invisible braces, clear aligners like ALINA provide more benefits to the patient.

First, they are entirely and easily removable. These can give you:

  • Better oral hygiene: Cleaning your teeth will be easier and more convenient than if you were wearing fixed braces. The likelihood of accumulating plaque, or developing gingivitis or  other gum diseases is reduced.
  • Fewer food restrictions: You won’t have to modify your diet, as there is no need to avoid hard and sticky foods that may damage traditional braces.

Second, they are made of smooth and light materials and are not permanently affixed to the interior of your mouth. This means:

  • No wires that might poke the insides of your mouth.
  • No brackets that might get loose.
  • Reduced likelihood of developing canker sores and wounds.

How much do braces cost in the Philippines?

The cost of metal braces is usually lower compared to modern designs such as ceramic braces and lingual braces. Traditional metal braces range from Php 30,000  to Php 90,000.

The price of invisible braces is a little bit higher than metal because of the materials used. Installation of these also requires specialized training on the part of orthodontists. Typical invisible braces price can go from PhP 180,000 for a mild case, to PhP 250,000 for severe cases.

A Better Invisalign Alternative

Now, if you’re looking for a teeth alignment treatment and you’re after the advantages of clear aligners, we’ve got a better Invisalign alternative for you.

Meet ALINA’s Clear Invisible Braces. 

One of the fastest growing, most trusted, and most convenient providers of clear invisible braces here in the Philippines, ALINA ensures that you are truly able to uncover your smile.

How? ALINA does not only look at your teeth in their current position to determine what treatment you need. Our AlinaSmile technology studies all your facial features extensively, considering the shape of your face, the position of your jaw, and the angle of your teeth to determine your most beautiful smile.

How does it work? Your ALINA treatment journey will start with a consultation with our experts. 3D scanning of your teeth is easy and pain-free. No need also to frequently visit your dentist as your ALINA braces will be delivered directly to your door.

You can have ALINA’s Clear Invisible Braces at a very reasonable price.

Ready to start your ALINA Clear Invisible Braces journey? Book a consult today.

Everything you need to know about teeth aligners vs braces

July 12, 2022
teeth aligners

As the field of dentistry changes and advances, those who are looking to have orthodontic treatment may find traditional braces unappealing. In fact, many adults put off getting proper teeth alignment because they think these are just for kids. For these people, teeth aligners are the clear, definitive choice. 

Teeth alignment treatments don’t have to be treated simply as an adolescent rite of passage. With clear aligners made available, you’re never too old to benefit from a teeth alignment procedure. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists reported that one in five orthodontic patients is an adult.

To help you make a more informed decision on what to choose between aligners vs. braces, here are some things you need to know.

What are teeth aligners?

Teeth aligners, like those of ALINA, utilize custom-made transparent trays that straighten the teeth in small increments. Unlike traditional braces, ALINA Aligners don’t make use of metal brackets and wires. Aligners look like mouth guards but serve the purpose of traditional braces.

Aligner treatment typically takes between 12 and 18 months, depending  on the condition of your teeth. 

Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your ALINA aligners and put them back in whenever you like. Just make sure you wear them for at least 22 hours a day to get the best outcome possible. When you’re not wearing them, store your ALINA aligners in the provided case to keep them clean and prevent them from being misplaced. 

 

The pros of getting aligners

Teeth aligners are dental devices, designed to treat or correct crooked and misaligned teeth. Here are some signs telling you that you might need aligners or braces: 

  • Not as noticeable – ALINA aligners are more subtle to wear because they’re made of transparent plastic material. When you’re out and about, your colleagues or friends won’t even notice you’re wearing them, especially from afar. 

  • More comfortable – Many patients who have had orthodontic treatments such as braces during their younger years have reported that ALINA Aligner trays are more comfortable to wear. While you might still encounter some discomfort, this only occurs in the first few days. In the absence of metal brackets and wires, there’s also a reduced probability of developing canker sores or tiny lesions in your mouth. 

  • Easy to wash – ALINA aligners are much easier to wash than traditional braces. All you have to do is clean and brush your aligners before and after wearing them to keep them in great condition.

  • Makes brushing and flossing easy – You don’t need any special dental equipment to brush and floss your teeth. Simply remove your clear aligners at any time to practice good oral hygiene.

  • Almost no food restrictions With ALINA Aligner, you can eat your favorite foods, including hard, chewy, or sticky ones. Just take your aligners out first before eating to avoid damaging them. However, try not to drink hot drinks while wearing your teeth aligners, as the heat may damage them. Finally, note that liquids seep into aligners easily, and may cause tooth decay or staining if the drinks are highly acidic or sugary.

  • Fewer visits to the dentist – With ALINA, you’ll receive your fresh set of aligners in the comfort of your home. Expert smile designers will be in touch with you, monitor the progress of your treatment, and give you a fresh set of trays every month until your desired smile is achieved. No more manual tightening necessary!

 

What are traditional braces?

Traditional braces have been the standard orthodontic treatment for quite some time. They are composed of ceramic or metal wires which are attached to every tooth with the use of brackets. 

There are several kinds of traditional braces in the market. Some of these are Damon braces, which don’t require O-rings, the small plastic elastic bands; lingual braces where wires and brackets sit on the inner part of the teeth; and the ceramic ones that use thin wires to connect the brackets.

The Hassles of traditional braces

Traditional braces are known for their reliability. As a result, they’ve been around for many years now. Unfortunately, they come with a number of drawbacks as well.

  • Metal causes mouth sores and wounds – Wearers of metal braces often complain of even the slightest contact causing wounds in the interior of the mouth. These are distracting and prevent wearers from eating, drinking, and even talking comfortably. 
  • Results can be inconsistent – Because braces need to be adjusted manually, the quality of the results tend to vary. The guesswork that comes from manual tightening and unexpected behavior of the teeth may wind up causing more difficulties in the end.
  • Cleaning is a huge headache – Braces create even more nooks and crannies in the mouth, allowing food to collect in between wires and underneath brackets. While these can be cleaned, users typically have to resort to specialized tools to get at the harder to reach areas.
  • Creates a smile ruined by wires or metal – This might be the biggest drawback to having traditional braces installed. All those metal brackets and wires are definitely a distraction from the wearer’s most beautiful smile!

The key takeaway

With ALINA Aligners, you can have your teeth straightened while looking great too. In just a short period, you’ll have your desired smile that creates a better bite and decreases the risk of future dental issues. Our trained and skilled dental experts will make sure you receive the highest quality dental care you require.

Should you still have any concerns about aligner vs braces, write us an email at ALINA so our team will be able to assist you in making an informed decision!