Invisible Braces
What are Aligners?
This refers to an almost invisible form of tooth correction: invisible braces in the form of transparent splints that are attached to the teeth. With these special aligners, almost all malocclusions can be corrected. They are transparent splints with a thickness of about 0.3 mm. They should be worn for about 23 hours a day and changed every 7-14 days. For faster splint changes every 3-5 days, see also faster treatment. As each splint is a little different from the previous one, the teeth are moved to the planned position.
Another advantage of invisible braces is that the results are relatively predictable. These are visualized by a 3D computer model. This allows us to show our patients an animation of the tooth rearrangement and the approximate number of splints, i.e. duration of the treatment.
With a smile simulator, the smile can even be conjured up on the face. Here, the ideal tooth position is projected into a facial photo of the patient to give some idea of the final result.
Who are invisible braces for?
Invisible braces are for adults of all ages. And with good cooperation, a wonderful treatment option for teenagers and children under the age of 10 as well.
Cost of invisible braces in Vienna and Linz
Which number of splints, and the resulting costs, is ideal for the particular treatment case can only be determined after inspection. To make it easier for patients, we always offer splint packages. We look forward to a consultation to discuss your individual case. Book an appointment online.
Course of treatment
In our offices in Vienna and Linz, we work by means of a scan, WITHOUT an impression!
First, we make a detailed analysis of the teeth, jaw joints, facial symmetry and smile. Then we make an intraoral scan, X-ray and photo documentation, based on which an exact planning of the desired result is made. Based on this planning, a 3D computer simulation is generated, which we discuss with our patients. This also shows the extent of ASR (see text below) as well as the position and number of necessary attachments. If desired, a smile visualization can also be performed in the simulator.
- ASR or approximal enamel reduction: In this procedure, tooth substance is removed in planned areas to a maximum extent of 0.5 mm. This is necessary, for example, to make room for crowded teeth in order to ensure correct alignment of the teeth. Often the method of choice if you want to avoid extraction of a tooth. The reduced interdental spaces are always smoothed by us and treated with special fluoride varnishes.
- Attachments: Small, hardly visible, tooth-colored plastic buttons. They are needed for specific tooth movements, for example to rotate a tooth. They are removed at the end of the treatment. For a short video on the attachment bonding process, here is a link to our Instagram page.
When the 3D model simulation is satisfactory to both practitioner and patient, the splints are ordered. Some time later, the invisible braces (aligners) are handed over together with the attachments being bonded and special instructions on wearing time and care. See the following link to reduce the wearing time: faster treatment.
You can find more details in this video.
Can I have my malocclusion treated with invisible braces ?
Almost all malocclusions can now be treated with invisible braces:
- for children under 10 years of age
- for teenagers
for minor malocclusions
in complex cases without or with surgical intervention for open bites with the modified Sato method.
However, as with any orthodontic correction of malocclusions: One must permanently stabilize the result afterwards. For this purpose serve either:
- fixed retainers, i.e. thin wires that are not visible from the outside, fixed directly to the tooth on the tongue side, or
- removable retainers in the form of transparent splints that have to be worn at night.
Invisible braces for Children under 10 years old
This is a clear orthodontic splint treatment for children with mixed dentition. This offers an efficient alternative to removable, night-worn braces. The decisive factor for invisible braces for children is the number of (visible) permanent teeth that have already erupted. For this purpose, impressions are no longer taken but images of the dental arches are created with the help of an intraoral scan. This allows a virtual 3D planning to be created.
Based on this computer simulation (see invisible or transparent braces), the expected tooth movements can be visualized. The advantage over classic removable braces is that individual teeth and groups of teeth can be adjusted in a more individual and targeted manner. This is especially true for crowding or gaps in the anterior region. Due to the daily wearing time of the transparent braces of 22h, improvements of the tooth positions are noticeable faster. This is possible because the braces fit closely to the teeth and do not cover the palate. Thus, speech is not affected and the splints can also be worn during school hours.
Example photo of an "invisible" or transparent braces
FAQ for invisible braces for children:
At what age can treatment with invisible braces for children begin?
Basically, the age of the teeth is the decisive factor. But as a good guideline, the start of treatment is before the age of 10. In addition, at least 2 permanent front teeth per jaw and the permanent molar (6th year molar) should be visible in the mouth.
What is the difference to classic removable braces?
Unlike the removable appliances worn at night, the invisible splints for children can be worn all day. This means they are only removed from the mouth for eating. Due to the permanent pressure on the teeth, a better individual adjustment of the teeth can be guaranteed. This means that success is seen more quickly, especially in the case of crowding or large gaps in the anterior region.
When are invisible braces suitable for teenagers?
Invisible (also known as translucent) braces for teenagers or splints/aligner therapy are suitable for young people whose permanent teeth have broken through completely or partially. For example, if a canine tooth is not yet completely in line or if the teeth are very crowded or missing, but also if there are gaps. The main advantage over fixed braces is better oral hygiene and fewer complications (no stinging wires or loss of brackets). These invisible braces are designed for the special needs and habits of teenagers.
Advantages to fixes braces for teenagers:
Invisible braces for teenagers also offer independence during planned stays abroad (for school or work reasons, e.g. semester abroad) or other changes such as the start of training/studies. Loose brackets and other typical complications of fixed braces are not to be expected. The braces are simply provided for a certain period of time. You can plan in advance if ASR or attachment changes need to be made. This way it is possible to enter the new phase of life without being restricted by the braces.
- better oral hygiene
- Less complications
- Aesthetic advantage
Independence during semesters / stays abroad or the beginning of an apprenticeship / studies
Difference between invisible braces for adults and for teenagers:
Special blue color indicators show how long the aligners (splints) have really been worn, because without perfect cooperation, even the most invisible splints can have no effect.
For further questions about the invisible splint therapy, simply use our contact form, call or use the possibility to book an appointment online. Our team is waiting for you for a free consultation!
Treatment case 1 - Protruding anterior tooth
In the following case, the anterior tooth was adjusted within 23 splints (means approx. 46 weeks of treatment). On the left side the before - after photos compared to the simulation on the right side.
Patient Case 2 - Open Bite
Without oral surgery, a bite closure is achieved here with splints and elastics. Previously, the patient had contact only on the last posterior teeth. Accompanying physiotherapy is recommended in such cases.
Treatment case 3 - Anterior tooth gap treatment (diastema treatment)
Closing gaps between the front teeth, also called diastema, is possible with invisible braces. The patient in the following pictures was treated in just under a year. On the left side the before - after pictures, on the right side the 3D model simulation of the treatment process.
Treatment case 4 - Crowding treatment
Teeth that are too close together often form dirt niches for increased plaque and tartar. In the following patient, the teeth could be shaped within 25 splints (i.e. 50 weeks of treatment). On one of the pictures on the left you can also see very nicely the so-called fixed retainers This is a retaining element for fixing and stabilizing the result after completion of the treatment.
Treatment case 5 - Deep bite treatment
When the upper anterior teeth overlap the lower ones, this is called a deep bite or overbite. In this patient case on the left, the deep bite and the slight crowding were corrected within 18 months with invisible splints.