Clear Braces: Treatment Process. What types of transparent braces are available in Vietnam?

Transparent braces, also known as clear aligners, are currently a popular aesthetic orthodontic method that many people prefer, despite the high cost of this method of orthodontic treatment. Transparent braces have demonstrated several outstanding advantages:

• Significantly reduces the number of dental appointments during the treatment period.
• Addresses the drawbacks of traditional metal braces, such as avoiding issues like brackets coming loose.
• Easy to maintain oral hygiene.
• Ensures high aesthetics as they are nearly invisible when worn.

The first introduced type of transparent aligner is Invisalign, so when discussing transparent braces, most readers immediately think of this type of aligner. However, there are currently various other types of transparent aligners available in Vietnam.

In this article, BookingCare will provide a detailed introduction to each type of transparent aligner and discuss the pros and cons of each type, allowing readers to gain a better understanding and make informed choices with the guidance of dental professionals.

What are Transparent Braces?

Transparent braces, also known as non-fixed or removable braces, are orthodontic appliances made from specialized dental plastic materials. They are designed to align and correct teeth and jaw alignment.

Transparent aligners possess a nearly invisible feature, making them highly aesthetic. Each patient will receive a customized set of aligners based on the structure and shape of their teeth and jaw.

For each set of aligners, a minimum of 20 hours of daily wear is recommended. Typically, a new pair of aligners is required every 2 weeks to ensure the teeth are shifting according to the treatment plan. However, it's advisable not to discard the old aligners when replacing them with new ones, as you may need to reuse them until the teeth are ready for the next set.

What types of transparent braces are available in Vietnam?

Currently, there are many dental clinics offering transparent aligners with various types of aligner trays. However, two types are particularly popular in Vietnam. Below, BookingCare will provide a detailed introduction to each type:

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign aligners are exclusively manufactured by Align Technology using a special type of dental plastic. This technology represents the leading orthodontic treatment in the United States and has served over 3 million customers. It is also highly more regarded.

Invisalign specialists rely on 3D digital modeling and simulations, combined with the dentist's treatment plan, to create a set of aligners comprising 25 to 40 trays. Each aligner helps shift the teeth by 0.25 mm during the treatment process.

The entire process is simulated on software to provide clients with a visualization of how their orthodontic journey will progress.

Currently, Invisalign offers four treatment packages:

• Express Package: 7 sets of aligners
• Lite Package: 14 sets of aligners
• Moderate Package: 28 sets of aligners
• Comprehensive Package: unlimited sets of aligners

The first two packages are recommended for mild cases.

Advantages:

Suitable for a wide range of orthodontic cases, from mild to severe conditions such as overcrowding, spacing, underbite, overbite, etc. Treatment duration ranges from 16 to 20 months, making it one of the shortest treatment times among transparent aligner types. Provides a snug fit and optimal alignment due to precise 3D modeling.

Disadvantages:

Compared to traditional braces, the cost of Invisalign braces is much higher, ranging from 80 to 140 million VND (~3370 - 5895 USD),depending on the individual's case or the number of aligner sets.

3D Clear Aligners

These aligners operate on a similar principle to Invisalign, but they are produced domestically in Vietnam. Dental clinics will have their 3D printing machines and use dental scans to create aligners from dental-grade plastic.

After completing the first set of aligners, patients will return for follow-up appointments, where new dental scans will be taken for the creation of the next set of aligners.

Currently, many dental clinics in other countries also utilize this domestically produced type of transparent aligner.

Advantages:

Cost-effective due to local production, making them more affordable. Effective for simple orthodontic cases. Lower cost than Invisalign, ranging from 60 to 80 million VND (~2525 - 3370 USD).

Disadvantages:

Not suitable for all cases; suitability depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issue. Some aligner sets may not fit precisely due to manufacturing variances, affecting treatment efficiency. Treatment duration is longer, typically 18 to 24 months.

Treatment process of Invisalign clear aligner

1. Examination and Consultation

The first step in the transparent braces or any dental care procedure is the examination and consultation with a dentist.

During the examination, the dentist assesses the dental condition, tooth alignment, jaw structure, and bite to develop the most suitable orthodontic plan, forecasting the results after completion.

Selecting a skilled dental practitioner for transparent braces consultation is crucial to ensuring optimal treatment. Each type of aligner has specific pros and cons, and the dentist must have a comprehensive understanding of each to recommend the best option based on individual needs.

2. Dental Impressions and Treatment Plan Development

Upon agreeing to undergo transparent braces treatment, the customer will take these specific steps:

• Dental X-rays: Reputable dental clinics typically use specialized Cone Beam CT scanners to obtain three-dimensional images of the teeth and jaw structure. However, not all dental clinics have access to this type of scanner.
• 3D dental scans using an ITero Element scanner, which is specifically designed for creating Invisalign aligners. For domestically produced aligners, a locally purchased 3D printer is used.
• Previewing Results and Treatment Duration: Using the Clincheck software, patients can preview the anticipated treatment outcome. The software simulates the step-by-step teeth movement process, displaying the progression of each stage. The expected duration of treatment is also provided, which may vary depending on the specific case.

3. Signing the Orthodontic Contract

After receiving consultation and an in-depth treatment plan, patients sign an orthodontic contract to ensure their rights are protected throughout the treatment period.

4. Aligner Design and Fabrication

For Invisalign aligners, once all necessary data and images are collected, the dentist sends this information to the Invisalign Center in the United States. This data is used to develop a 3D Invisalign treatment plan. Additionally, the aligners are custom designed for each patient. Typically, a set of aligners will comprise 25 to 45 trays.

For 3D Clear Aligners, the dental practitioners directly manufacture the aligners in-house using the gathered data and dental impressions.

5. Receiving the First Set of Aligners

Approximately one week later, patients receive their first set of aligners. During this appointment, the dentist places small attachments on the teeth to facilitate proper tooth movement.

With Invisalign, patients require a follow-up appointment every 6 weeks to monitor the progress. Over time, patients receive new sets of aligners and replace them at home, without requiring additional appointments.

Throughout the treatment period, regular dental appointments are still necessary as scheduled.

6. Completing the Orthodontic Treatment

After approximately 1 to 2 years of treatment, patients will need to wear a retention appliance, often referred to as a retainer, to maintain the new tooth position. The duration of retention varies based on individual cases.

The information provided above is a comprehensive overview of transparent braces by BookingCare. In addition to this information, readers are encouraged to seek information from reputable dental clinics to ensure a successful transparent braces journey.