Looking for a perfect smile without traditional braces? Discover the benefits of clear aligners, factors to consider, and the cost in India. Learn how to choose the best aligner for your needs and enjoy a more comfortable orthodontic experience.
Orthodontic treatment has traditionally involved bracing the teeth with wires and brackets for straightening. These braces can be uncomfortable and are usually quite noticeable giving an unattractive appearance, which can often lead to low self-esteem. But now, with clear aligners, you have a much simpler and more aesthetic solution.1
Clear aligners are transparent, thin plastic trays that fit your teeth and gently move them into their place. You need to wear each aligner for about a week, for at least 22 hours a day, and they slowly shift your teeth a little bit at a time.2 These aligners were initially started as a solution for mild dental issues, but now, it has become a versatile solution for many types of teeth alignment problems.1
In this blog, we’ll look at why clear aligners are better than braces, what you should think about when you are planning to choose the right aligner, and how much aligners cost in India. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the best option for getting that perfect smile.
Benefits of Clear Aligners Over Braces
When it comes to straightening your teeth, clear aligners have several advantages when you compare it with the traditional metal braces
- Discreet Appearance
These are made from thin and transparent plastic, so they are nearly invisible. Unlike the traditional metal braces, they blend in with your teeth without drawing much attention. - Removability
You can take out your aligners whenever you want to eat, brush, and floss. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and allows you to enjoy all kinds of food without worry. However, to work effectively, you need to wear them throughout the day for at least 22 hours a day. - Better Comfort
They are smoother and more comfortable than the traditional metal braces. The metal ones can poke inside your mouth and cause discomfort. But with a new set of aligners, the discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.3 - Shorter Treatment Time
Clear aligners can often finish treatment faster than braces, which is something many want in their busy schedules.5 - Convenience
Aligner treatment usually requires fewer trips to the orthodontist for check-ups, and some manufacturers provide direct to patient services including at-home treatment planning, aligner delivery and monitoring, adding convenience to the treatment process.6
- No Age Limit
Clear aligners are suitable for people of all ages, making them a versatile option for teens, adults and even senior individuals.7,8
Clear aligners have gained popularity because of their invisible look, easy removability, and comfort. They often make orthodontic treatment simpler and more pleasant compared to traditional braces.
Factors to Consider While Choosing Aligners
When choosing aligners, there are a few important things to consider in order to ensure you get the best results. You must keep these factors in mind:
- Your Dental Condition: The choice of going for an aligner depends on what kind of dental issue you have. Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate problems like crowding or spacing. If you have more serious issues, like significant bite problems or large gaps, you might need to look into other treatments or a mix of options.
- How Long the Treatment Will Take: The time-period to wear aligners may differ from patient to patient, and sometimes it can take longer compared to braces. But it is not that painful and more comfortable, so you can plan your schedule accordingly and continue follow-up as and when needed.
- Your Ability to Follow the Plan: For aligners to work, you need to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. If you are not sure that you can stick to this schedule, it could delay your treatment. So consider your commitment before choosing alginers.9
- Cost: Aligners can be more expensive than traditional braces, but the price can vary based on the brand and your dental condition. While they may cost more, many find them worth it for their convenience and appearance. Plus, a lot of providers offer flexible payment plans and EMIs that could help make the cost easier to manage.10
- Reputation of the Brand: Not all aligners are the same. It is a good idea to research different brands and talk to your orthodontist to find the best one for you.
Taking these factors into account will help you make a well-informed choice and ensure that your aligners are the right pick for you.
Aligners and Costs in India
The clear aligner prices in India can cost somewhere between ₹80,000 and ₹1,20,000. The price can differ based on:
- Severity of Misalignment: The complexity of your teeth misalignment influences the cost, with more severe cases requiring additional aligners and extended treatment.
- Technology Utilized: Costs can be affected by the technology used, such as 3D imaging, which enables a tailored and accurate treatment plan.
- Dentist’s Expertise: The cost may vary based on the skill and experience of the orthodontist or dental specialist.
- Post-Treatment Maintenance: Additional expenses may include retainers and potential adjustments to ensure long-term alignment stability.
Many clinics offer payment plans or financing options to help with the cost. Toothsi is a notable brand offering flexible options and convenient EMI choices. Their packages include GST and support from experienced orthodontists, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive treatment experience.10
Conclusion
Clear aligners can be better than traditional braces in many ways and are a great choice because they are less noticeable, removable, and often more comfortable. When you plan to go for an aligner, you must opt for the right one considering factors like your dental needs, treatment time and your budget.
