A Complete Guide to the Price of Braces in Singapore

What are braces?

Braces are orthodontic tools that work hard to straighten teeth and boost oral health. They achieve this by gently applying pressure over time to guide teeth into their new positions.

And it’s not just about looks! Besides giving you a confident smile, braces come with practical perks. With straighter teeth, brushing and flossing become easier, cutting down on the chance of tartar buildup and those pesky stains.

This not only improves your oral hygiene but also supports long-term dental health.

How much do braces cost?

Braces prices vary significantly between types, and even within the same type, costs can vary due to several factors to be covered later.

Curious about how much do braces cost in Singapore? Here’s a quick summary of the price ranges for all kinds of braces:

Types of braces

Price

Zenyum Invisible Braces

$2,790 – $5,090

Invisible braces

Usually between $3,000 – $8,000*

Traditional/metal braces

Usually between $3,500 – $4,200*

Ceramic braces

Usually between $5,000 – $6,000*

Self-ligating/Damon braces

Usually between $5,000 – $13,000*

Lingual braces

Usually between $8,000 – $11,000*

DIY (cheap braces)

Usually below $2,000*

*The listed prices are meant to be taken as a guide at the time of publication. Prices may be subject to prevailing GST and service charge (if any).

Factors that affect the pricing of braces

Cost of braces based on tooth conditions

When it comes to braces, the cost can vary depending on how complex your dental malocclusion is. More severe misalignments mean treatments may take longer and require more detailed adjustments, which can affect the overall cost of braces. If you’re curious to know more about the different types of misalignments, read more about it here on our blog for more information.

Cost of braces based on type

While braces generally start in the thousands, various factors can influence the overall price. The aesthetic appeal and advanced technology of clear aligners may lead to differences in cost.

Braces using brackets may involve potential issues like broken brackets and wires, which can result in additional appointments and costs.

It’s worth noting that with invisible braces like Zenyum, all aligner sets are included in the total pricing, making it straightforward and hassle-free for you.

Types of braces

Invisible braces

Invisible braces, also known as clear aligners, eliminate metal brackets in favour of plastic moulds that fit over the teeth. Aligners are used to gradually straighten your teeth and giving you a Hollywood smile over time.

Invisible aligners are also usually the least painful option. Take a look at the pros and cons of invisible braces below!

Pros

Cons

• Aesthetically pleasing since they are invisible
• Shorter treatment time (3 to 22 months), depending on case complexity
• Moulded to teeth and gum line – less irritation
• Effective in treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues

• May not be suitable for severe bite or jaw alignment issues

Considering an alternative to traditional braces? Choose Zenyum Invisible Braces for a sleek, comfortable alternative that discreetly aligns your teeth. Join others who’ve transformed their smiles with Zenyum.

Traditional/Metal braces

When you think of “brace face,” you’re probably picturing traditional metal braces. These braces feature metal wires and brackets cemented to the front of each tooth. The metal archwire is secured with elastic bands, which often come in fun colors.

However, it’s not all fun and games—your dentist adjusts the tension on each bracket (ouch!) to gradually shape your smile. While effective, it can be a longer and less comfortable experience.

Let’s review the pros and cons:

Pros

Cons

• Generally more affordable compared to other options
• Effective in straightening teeth within an average of 24 months
• Trusted and widely used method
• Suitable for treating most cases, including complex ones

• Less aesthetically pleasing compared to other braces types
• Food restrictions due to brackets and wires
• Changes to oral care routine—can be challenging to clean
• Discomfort—may cause cuts and ulcers on cheeks and lips

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces function similarly to traditional metal braces, but with brackets made of ceramic. These brackets can be clear or tooth-colored, offering a less noticeable alternative to metal braces. The arch-wires used in ceramic braces are typically made of a thinner, transparent material like polymer.

A quick look at the pros and cons:

Pros

Cons

• Less visible than metal braces
• Treatment time similar to traditional braces (around 24 months)

• Costly
• Prone to staining
• Changes to oral care routine—challenging to clean
• Discomfort—may cause cuts and ulcers on cheeks and lips
• Brackets can be more fragile and prone to breakage

Self-ligating/Damon braces

Are you unfamiliar with self-ligating braces? They represent a new generation of metal braces utilising passive self-ligating technology. What does this mean exactly?

Unlike traditional braces, Damon braces do not require elastic rubber bands or metal ties. Instead, they employ a “sliding door” technique where brackets are affixed to the front teeth, allowing the archwire to move freely.

Let’s break down the pros and cons, now that we understand what Damon braces are:

Pros

Cons

• Treatment duration is typically shorter compared to traditional braces
• Requires less frequent in-clinic maintenance
• Exerts reduced pressure on teeth compared to traditional braces

• Brackets and wires are still visible to others
• Elastics may still be necessary for certain teeth movements
• Can be costly compared to traditional braces
• Initial discomfort may be experienced during the adjustment period

Lingual braces

Lingual braces operate on the same principle as traditional metal and ceramic braces, with brackets and arch-wires. The key difference? They’re affixed to the back of your teeth, on the tongue (lingual) side.

Think of them as ‘internal braces’. Cleaning them can be challenging compared to braces on the front of teeth.

Find yourself still curious? Here are the pros and cons of lingual braces:

Pros

Cons

• Invisible from the front, offering discreet treatment
• Treatment duration similar to traditional braces (around 24 months on average)

• Higher cost compared to traditional braces
• More prone to tongue ulcers and gum inflammation
• Potential for speech and dietary restrictions
• Requires extra effort for oral care due to difficult-to-reach areas behind the teeth

DIY (Cheap braces)

Looking for affordable braces in Singapore? There are several options available, each with its own pros and cons. It’s important to weigh your needs and budget when making your choice.

While opting for the cheapest braces might seem appealing, remember: quality matters when it comes to your teeth, which will stay with you for life. DIY braces kits, like those found online or through 3D-printing, should be avoided. Your orthodontic care should always be trusted to professionals.

Just as you wouldn’t attempt to stitch up a wound or perform your own surgery, your orthodontic treatment should be left in the hands of qualified experts. Ensure your smile gets the best care possible by consulting with a trusted orthodontist.

Choosing the right Invisible Braces for you

Licensed invisible braces providers prioritise your oral health by performing essential X-rays to identify any underlying gum issues before treatment. They ensure you receive comprehensive care through in-person visits with local dentists and orthodontists throughout your treatment journey.

Providers also offer Interproximal Reduction (IPR) to create the necessary space for moving teeth effectively. By requiring professional 3D scans and X-rays at licensed dental offices, they ensure safety and accuracy, setting themselves apart from at-home or co-working space alternatives.

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