Choosing the right orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth can significantly impact your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. With the increasing popularity of invisible teeth braces and traditional braces, patients often wonder which option suits them best.

At Apollo Clinic Kolkata—with branches in New Town, Salt Lake, and Vivekananda Road—we offer both transparent teeth braces (clear aligners) and traditional braces, guided by expert orthodontists to help you make an informed decision.

ı What are Invisible Teeth Aligners?

Invisible teeth braces, also known as clear aligners or transparent teeth braces, are custom-made orthodontic devices designed to straighten your teeth discreetly. Made from medical-grade transparent plastic, these aligners fit snugly over your teeth, applying gentle pressure to shift them into the desired position gradually. Popular brands like Invisalign, Flash Aligners, and ClearPath offer effective solutions for people seeking aesthetic orthodontic treatment.

Key Features of Clear Aligners:

Virtually invisible appearance
Removable for eating and cleaning
Comfortable and custom-made fit
No dietary restrictions
Fewer dental visits required

ı How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligners work through a series of customized trays created using advanced 3D imaging technology. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the previous one, designed to move your teeth incrementally toward their ideal position. Typically, patients wear each aligner set for about two weeks before progressing to the next one. Regular check-ups every 6–8 weeks ensure that your treatment stays on track.

Treatment Steps:

Initial consultation and 3D scanning of teeth
Customized digital treatment planning
Production of personalized aligner sets
Regular monitoring appointments every 6–8 weeks

ı Dental Issues Corrected by Clear Aligners

Clear aligners effectively address various dental alignment issues:

Crowded Teeth: Overlapping or misaligned teeth due to insufficient jaw space.
Gaps Between Teeth: Excessive spacing leading to aesthetic concerns or food trapping.
Overbite & Underbite: Misalignment where upper or lower teeth excessively overlap.
Crossbite: Upper teeth positioned inside lower teeth causing uneven bite patterns.
Open Bite: Upper and lower front teeth do not meet properly when biting down.

ı Benefits of Invisible Teeth Braces (Clear Aligners)

Clear aligners offer several advantages over traditional metal braces:

Discreet Appearance: Virtually invisible, ideal for professionals or socially active individuals.
Comfortable Fit: Custom-made smooth plastic trays minimize irritation compared to metal brackets.
Removable & Convenient: Easily removable during meals or special occasions; no dietary restrictions.
Better Oral Hygiene: Easier cleaning as aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing.
Fewer Dental Visits: Requires fewer clinic visits compared to traditional braces.

ı What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces have evolved significantly since their inception. Modern systems use high-grade stainless steel brackets, heat-activated wires, and elastic ties to correct even the most complex dental issues.

Types of Traditional Braces

Metal Braces: Durable and cost-effective, ideal for children and teens.
Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets for a subtler look.
Lingual Braces: Fixed behind teeth for complete invisibility.

ı How Do Traditional Braces Work?

Brackets are bonded to teeth, connected by archwires that apply continuous pressure.
Adjustments every 4–6 weeks at Apollo Dental ensure steady progress.

Benefits of Braces

Versatility: Corrects severe misalignment, deep bites, and jaw discrepancies.
Predictability: Controlled, consistent results with minimal patient compliance needed.

Drawbacks

Visibility: Metal brackets are noticeable.
Dietary Limits: Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods to prevent damage.
Oral Hygiene Challenges: Requires meticulous cleaning around brackets.

ı Traditional Braces vs. Invisible Teeth Braces: A Detailed Comparison

Feature	Traditional Braces	Invisible Teeth Aligners
Appearance	Visible metal brackets & wires	Transparent trays; nearly invisible
Removability	Fixed; cannot be removed	Removable during meals & cleaning
Comfort	May cause initial discomfort	Smooth plastic; minimal irritation
Oral Hygiene	Challenging due to wires	Easier as trays are removable
Treatment Duration	Typically 18–24 months	Often shorter (6–18 months)
Office Visits	Monthly adjustments required	Fewer visits; every 6–8 weeks

Key Factors to Compare

1. Appearance

Invisible Aligners: Virtually undetectable, making them ideal for professionals, teens, and social settings.
Traditional Braces: Visible but customizable with colored bands (popular among kids!).

2. Comfort

Aligners: Smooth plastic minimizes gum irritation. Apollo Dental uses advanced sedation techniques for painless adjustments.
Braces: Initial soreness and occasional wire pokes; dental wax provides relief.

3. Effectiveness

Aligners: Best for mild-to-moderate crowding, spacing, or bite issues.
Braces: Superior for complex cases like rotated teeth, crossbites, or jaw alignment.

4. Day-to-Day Usability

Aligners:
- Pros: Removable for special occasions, no food restrictions.
- Cons: Easy to misplace; discipline is key.
Braces:
- Pros: “Set it and forget it” approach.
- Cons: Frequent adjustments and dietary limits.

5. Treatment Time

Aligners: Average 6–18 months (depends on compliance and case complexity).
Braces: Typically 18–36 months, especially for severe issues.

6. Maintenance

Aligners:
- Clean with a soft brush and clear antibacterial soap.
- Soak in retainer cleaner weekly.
Braces:
- Use interdental brushes and water flossers to clean around brackets.
- Avoid sugary drinks to prevent enamel damage.

ı Cost of Invisalign & Braces in Kolkata

The cost of invisible teeth braces and traditional braces in Kolkata varies based on several factors:

Factors Influencing Cost:

Type of Treatment: Clear aligners generally cost more than traditional metal braces due to advanced technology and aesthetics.
Complexity of Case: Severe misalignment or bite issues may require longer treatment duration, increasing overall costs.
Brand Selected: Premium brands like Invisalign typically have higher costs compared to local brands like Flash Aligners or ClearPath.
Location & Facility Reputation: Clinics with advanced facilities and experienced orthodontists may charge slightly higher fees.

ı Cost Range of Braces and Invisible Aligners in Kolkata:

Treatment Type	Average Cost Range (₹)
Traditional Metal Braces	₹30,000 – ₹45,000
Ceramic Braces	₹45,000 – ₹65,000
Invisible Teeth Aligners	₹45,000 – ₹2,50,000

Note: Apollo Dental offers EMI options and accepts health insurance claims.

ı Conclusion: Which Option Suits You?

Factor	Invisible Aligners	Traditional Braces
Aesthetic Needs	Ideal	Visible
Budget	Higher cost	Affordable
Complex Dental Issues	Limited	Best choice
Lifestyle Flexibility	Removable	Fixed

authored by dr dipta shankha chakraborty

At Apollo Dental Clinic, we believe in providing evidence-based, patient-centric care, and this blog is crafted to empower you with accurate, trustworthy information. Dr. Dipta Shankha Chakraborty, a renowned orthodontist with over 12 years of experience, has personally reviewed and authored this guide to ensure it aligns with the latest advancements in dental science.

About Dr. Dipta Shankha Chakraborty

Expertise: Specializes in invisible aligners, traditional braces, and complex orthodontic cases.
Education: Trained in advanced orthodontics from premier institutions in India and abroad.
Philosophy: Focuses on pain-free, personalized treatments that blend aesthetics with functionality.
Profile: Learn more about Dr. Chakraborty’s work here.

Dr. Chakraborty and the Apollo Dental team in New Town, Salt Lake, and Vivekananda Road have transformed thousands of smiles using cutting-edge tools like 3D intraoral scanners, CAD-CAM technology, and Invisalign®. His insights ensure this blog reflects real-world expertise, not just theoretical knowledge.

ı Why Trust This Guide?

Clinically Verified: Content aligns with global orthodontic standards.
Patient-Driven: Insights derived from 1,000+ successful cases.
Transparent: Unbiased comparison of pros, cons, and costs.