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Types of Removabe Braces

Gone are the days when people had to suffer through wearing visible, metal braces. Advancements in orthodontic technology have led to the invention of invisible braces, virtually undetectable to the naked eye. Unlike traditional metal braces, an invisible apparatus treats minor to moderate problems. Although all invisible braces seem identical, they vary according to their aims and design.

  1. Invisalign

    • Consisting of custom-made aligners, Invisalign shifts teeth until they reach the final, desired alignment. Each aligner is tailored to the patient, who wears them for two weeks. Then the aligners are replaced by new ones, according to a sequential treatment plan determined by the orthodontist, until the treatment plan has been fulfilled. Unlike other types of removable braces, each aligner moves specific teeth according to a time-sensitive plan.

    Simpli5

    • With the capacity to treat both upper and lower arches, Simpli5 contains five aligners. Since each aligner moves teeth 1/64 of an inch, an apparatus possessing more aligners will correct more complicated problems. Simpli5 holds a maximum of 10 aligners, making it an ideal device to correct misaligned teeth on both the upper and lower arches.

    Red, White & Blue

    • Unlike Simpli5, the Red, White & Blue apparatus treats one arch at a time, either upper or lower, but not both simultaneously. The device has three parts allowing it to conform to the arch more comfortably. Each part has a red, white or blue dot to guide patients to inserting them in the correct order. However, this device is designed to treat less complex cases, since it includes fewer aligners than Simpli5 and treats only one arch.

    RW II

    • Like the Red, White & Blue system, RW II treats one arch at a time. Each of the two aligners has a soft, flexible lining, allowing more significant movement of teeth, but with less force than the Red, White & Blue system. The soft lining has greater retention that allows greater comfort to the patient wearing them. Like the other systems, RW II aligners look just like all other invisible braces, despite the difference in design.

    Cost

    • Each device varies in cost, according to the number of aligners used, how long the device is worn and the level of treatment. Invisalign generally costs about $3,500 to $8,000 per patient. Patients who possess orthodontic coverage in their dental plan should receive coverage for all removable braces, regardless of which treatment method they choose. Patients without insurance may qualify for monthly financing that makes invisible braces more affordable.

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