Braces, Invisalign and Angel clear aligners
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth into a better position to improve how they bite together, how easy they are to clean, and how they look. We offer fixed metal braces and two clear aligner systems, Invisalign and Angel Aligners.
Reviewed by Dr Samuel Ong Jien Woon, BDS (Singapore), Clinic DirectorLast reviewed 4 November 2026General information, not a diagnosis
In brief: Metal braces $3,500 · Angel Aligners $5,500 · Invisalign $6,500 · Retainers $150 per jaw · Typical treatment 9–30 months · Not CHAS or MediSave claimable.
Why straighten teeth?
Crowded or misaligned teeth are harder to clean, which increases the risk of decay and gum disease. An uneven bite can wear teeth unevenly and strain jaw muscles. Orthodontics is also used to make space for impacted teeth, to close gaps before an implant or bridge, and to improve speech where tooth position affects it. Appearance is often the reason patients come to us, and that is a valid reason too.
Your options
| Metal braces | Angel Aligners | Invisalign | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee (incl. GST) | $3,500 | $5,500 | $6,500 |
| Includes | X-rays, 3D scan, photos and orthodontic treatment visits | X-rays, 3D scan, photos and orthodontic treatment visits | X-rays, 3D scan, photos and orthodontic treatment visits |
| Not included | Retainers ($150/jaw) | Retainers ($150/jaw) | Retainers ($150/jaw) |
| Suitable for | All cases, including complex rotations, deep bites, severe crowding or spacing, jaw guidance in growing patients | Mild to moderate crowding or spacing, relapse after previous braces, alignment before implants or bridges | Mild to moderate crowding or spacing, relapse after previous braces, alignment before implants or bridges |
| Removable? | No | Yes, remove to eat and brush | Yes, remove to eat and brush |
| Visits | Adjustment every 4–6 weeks | Review every 6–10 weeks; new aligners every 1–2 weeks | Review every 6–10 weeks; new aligners every 1–2 weeks |
| Main requirement | Careful brushing around brackets; avoid hard and sticky foods | Wear 20–22 hours a day | Wear 20–22 hours a day |
When to start
Children and teenagers
- Most start between 12 and 15, when most permanent teeth have erupted.
- An earlier assessment (around 7 to 10) can pick up jaw growth or bite problems. In some cases, early (interceptive) treatment can make later treatment simpler.
- Treatment during growth allows the dentist to guide jaw development.
Adults
- Teeth can be moved at any age as long as the teeth and gums are healthy.
- Clear aligners are often chosen by working adults because they are less visible and removable.
- Adults with gum disease need it stabilised before orthodontic treatment begins.
What treatment involves
- Consultation and records. Examination, X-rays, photographs and a digital scan or impressions. We discuss what is achievable, the options and the fee.
- Fitting. Braces are bonded to the teeth, or your first aligners are issued with attachments where needed.
- Active treatment. Regular adjustments or new aligners over 9 to 30 months depending on complexity and how consistently aligners are worn.
- Retention. Braces are removed or the last aligner is completed, and retainers are made. Retainers are worn full-time at first, then at night indefinitely.
Looking after braces and aligners
With metal braces
- Brush after every meal and floss daily (floss threaders or a water flosser help).
- Avoid hard, sticky and crunchy foods that can break brackets or bend wires.
- Keep every adjustment appointment; missed visits extend treatment.
With clear aligners
- Wear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day; remove only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush.
- Brush and floss before putting aligners back in to avoid trapping sugar against the teeth.
- Clean aligners daily with a soft brush and cool water.
Frequently asked questions
How much do braces cost in Singapore at Toothsmith?
Metal braces are $3,500, Angel Aligners $5,500 and Invisalign $6,500, inclusive of X-rays, 3D scan, photos and orthodontic treatment visits. Retainers are $150 per jaw and are needed after any orthodontic treatment. Fees include GST.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment typically takes 9 to 30 months. Simpler cases, such as mild crowding or teeth that have shifted after previous braces, are at the shorter end; more complex bite corrections take longer. Your dentist will give you an estimate after reviewing your records.
What is the best age to start braces?
Many patients start between 12 and 15, once most permanent teeth have erupted. An earlier assessment around age 7 to 10 can identify jaw growth or bite issues where interceptive treatment may help. Adults can be treated at any age if teeth and gums are healthy.
Braces or Invisalign: which is right for me?
Fixed metal braces can manage every type of tooth movement, including complex rotations and deep bites. Clear aligners (Invisalign, Angel Aligners) suit mild to moderate crowding or spacing and are removable, but they only work if worn 20 to 22 hours a day. We will tell you if your case is suitable for aligners.
Do braces hurt?
Teeth feel tender for a few days after braces are fitted or adjusted, and after each new set of aligners. Soft foods help. If you need pain relief, ask your dentist, who will take your other medicines and any allergies into account. Brackets can rub the cheeks initially; orthodontic wax is provided.
Is orthodontic treatment covered by CHAS or MediSave?
No. Orthodontic treatment is not a CHAS-claimable procedure and is not MediSave-claimable. Some insurance plans include orthodontic benefits; check your policy.
What happens if I do not wear my retainers?
Teeth tend to drift back towards their original position, particularly in the first year after treatment. Retainers are usually worn full-time initially and then at night indefinitely.
Questions about your teeth?
Book a check-up. You will hear what we find, the options and the fee before anything is done.