Considering aligners for you or your kid?

Want to straighten your teeth without braces but not sure if clear aligners are for you? Thinking about them for your child but wondering if it’s better to wait? We sit down with DR TIFFANY TAN, an Invisalign-accredited dentist from Dental Designs Clinic, who explains the ins and outs of getting invisible braces such as Invisalign in Singapore.

What exactly are clear aligners and how do they work?

Clear aligners such as Invisalign are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth with the need for braces. These clear aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for meals, brushing and flossing, making them a fuss-free option for both adults and kids who prefer something more discreet and comfortable than metal braces.

Not sure if it is right for you? You can start with our clinic’s Smile Assessment to explore your options.

Who’s a good candidate for clear aligners?

Clear aligners are a great option for crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites and even relapses from previous braces. As an Invisalign Diamond Provider, Dental Designs Clinic manages a wide spectrum of cases with confidence. For more complex bite or jaw alignment concerns, adjunct treatments may be necessary alongside these clear aligners.

When it comes to children, it’s not just about straight teeth. We also pay close attention to habits like mouth breathing, snoring or teeth grinding, which can indicate underlying structural issues like a narrow palate. These subtle signs often go unnoticed but can lead to long-term health issues if left unaddressed. That’s why we take a holistic approach with a strong focus on early intervention – creating personalised treatment plans that support both dental alignment and overall facial growth and wellbeing.

Is there a difference between clear aligners for adults and children?

While clear aligners work the same way for everyone – gently shifting teeth into their ideal positions – dental needs change across different life stages. At Dental Designs Clinic, treatment is tailored for children, teens and adults, with each plan customised to suit their unique development and goals.

For children as young as five, our focus isn’t on straightening teeth right away but on guiding proper jaw growth. For example, in cases where a child has a narrow upper jaw, we may recommend using a palatal expander, which is a non-invasive device to help the jaw widen. Starting early can make a big difference, as missing this window may lead to more complex treatment needs later on.

For teenagers, the Invisalign programme is designed to accommodate growing teeth while addressing crowding and bite problems. Adults, on the other hand, often choose to subtly correct alignment and straighten teeth without braces or disrupting daily routines. At our clinic, we see plenty of adults in their 30s, 40s and beyond starting treatment. It’s never too late to invest in your smile.

What is the process of getting these clear aligners at Dental Designs Clinic?

Getting started with invisible braces like Invisalign is a personalised experience from the very start. We use high-resolution scanners and facial photography to create a digital map of your mouth. This is followed by a detailed smile analysis where we look at how your teeth complement your overall look. It’s really a facially driven process because a confident smile should feel natural and in harmony with your unique features.

To make the journey even smoother, our team have curated an Invisalign Journey Kit. It’s filled with useful tools and guides to help patients feel more comfortable and confident throughout their treatment experience.

How long will it take?

Treatment length depends on how much movement your teeth need. Most patients complete their treatment within six months, thanks to our clinic’s accelerated programme. The dentists advocate a non-invasive approach whenever possible. For nine out of 10 patients, we straighten teeth without extractions, which helps preserve natural teeth and shortens treatment time.

How much does Invisalign in Singapore cost? Is it covered by insurance?

Costs vary depending on case complexity, with some needing minor adjustments and others requiring a more comprehensive plan. We’ve seen many expats have insurance policies that cover orthodontic treatments like Invisalign, but coverage varies widely depending on your plan. Dental Designs Clinic provides both self-claim and direct billing insurance options and will assist you with the necessary documentation to support your claims.

Have you noticed any common misconceptions about clear aligners?

People often worry that Invisalign takes too long and that moving abroad could disrupt their progress. This fear causes many to delay care, letting dental issues worsen. Our Invisalign programme is streamlined, with most cases completed in six to 12 months.

If you’re an expat who has relocated to Singapore mid-treatment, Dental Designs Clinic provides a smooth transition of care by reviewing previous treatment records. Our multilingual team is at our primely located clinics at Telok Ayer, Raffles Place and Orchard, and we aim to make your journey as seamless and stress-free as possible.

I’m interested to learn more. Where should I go?

If you’d like to dive deeper into what Invisalign treatment can look like for real people, Our Before & Beyond series shares actual patient cases and treatment planning insights from our dentists, you might even spot a story that mirrors your own smile goals.

And for those who prefer learning on the go, The Bite Angle Podcast tackles a wide range of dental topics with our team of professionals, from bite problems to jaw issue, all in a relaxed, easy to follow format. Both are free and available online so you can explore, learn and feel more confident about your own treatment journey.

About the doctor

Dr Tiffany Tan is an Australian-trained dentist with over 10 years of experience in Invisalign treatments. Known for her calm, patient-focused approach, she’s a firm believer in early orthodontic care for children, especially to support healthy jaw growth and address sleep-related issues like snoring or mild sleep apnoea.

• Raffles Place branch: Level 3, The House of Eden Singapore, 4 Robinson Road
• Telok Ayer branch: #01-01B Keck Seng Building, 133 Cecil Street
• Orchard branch: #12-05 Wisma Atria Office Tower, 435 Orchard Road

6221 8284 | WhatsApp 8200 9092 | dentaldesigns.com.sg
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