Interest in dental aesthetics has grown considerably in recent years due to modern solutions in orthodontics, implantology and dental prosthetics. Advances in dental technology have made it possible to develop innovative procedures and treatments that combine the effectiveness of dental braces with the performance of cosmetic dental treatments. 

Increasingly, invisible braces or transparent braces have become the preferred option for those who want an aesthetic smile without attracting too much attention. New orthodontic systems use transparent materials and advanced techniques to gradually align the teeth, maintaining a natural appearance throughout the treatment. 

Choosing transparent braces (dental aligners) makes it easier to achieve excellent results without compromising your confidence in your smile.

Transparent braces are a modern orthodontic device designed to align teeth and correct bite in a discreet manner. Unlike traditional braces with brackets, nearly invisible braces are actually transparent aligners made of medical-grade polymers, making them barely noticeable during treatment.

Whether we are talking about transparent braces such as Invisalign®, Spark™ or FAS Aligner System®, available at DENT ESTET clinics, the purpose of this type of dental braces is the same: to exert controlled forces on the teeth, causing them to gradually move into the correct position. 

This process is done progressively, under the supervision of an orthodontist, so that the final result is both aesthetic and functional.

There are several types of clear braces, each designed to meet different orthodontic correction needs, levels of discretion and lifestyles, depending on the complexity of the case and the dentist's recommendation.

Physiognomic fixed braces (braces with sapphire or ceramic brackets)

Although not completely invisible, sapphire or ceramic braces fall into the category of physiognomic braces. They are, in fact, an aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. 

Sapphire brackets have the advantage of being completely transparent, offering superior aesthetics, while ceramic brackets are close to the natural colour of teeth. In addition, due to the strength and stability of the materials, sapphire or ceramic braces can treat even complex cases, such as severe rotations, major crowding or bite problems.

Benefits of sapphire/ceramic braces:

• increased discretion due to superior aesthetics compared to classic metal braces
• precision in tooth movement during treatment
• increased efficiency in complex cases

Invisalign® braces

This is the most popular type of invisible braces, being the first system based on transparent aligners launched over 25 years ago. 

Advantages of Invisalign® braces:

• Almost perfect aesthetics – Invisalign® braces are almost invisible thanks to ultra-transparent aligners
• Precise digital planning – treatment is planned and monitored step by step thanks to ClinCheck® technology
• Extremely comfortable – SmartTrack® material is designed to be biocompatible and not irritate tissues
• Easy maintenance – allows for proper and effective hygiene, as the aligners can be removed for brushing
• Increased efficiency - shortens treatment time compared to traditional braces and is ideal for mild to moderate cases. Can also treat complex cases with the right technique

"For Invisalign treatment to be effective, it is essential that the patient wears the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. The advantage is that the aligners are changed at home, at intervals of approximately 7-14 days, according to the plan established by the doctor," says Dr. Alexandra Moanță, specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics.

Spark® dental braces

Spark® aligners are a modern solution for transparent dental braces. Made from a patented material - TruGEN™ - Spark® dental braces are barely visible, extremely comfortable and highly resistant to staining.

What sets Spark® braces apart from other transparent braces is their superior retention on the surface of the teeth. Thanks to their smooth edges, Spark® braces offer a pleasant orthodontic experience throughout the entire treatment.

Advantages of the Spark® dental appliance: 

• Superior aesthetics - thanks to the innovative material and design, Spark® aligners are extremely discreet when worn.
• Increased comfort - the rounded and smooth edges are specially designed to prevent irritation or other gum problems.
• Superior stain resistance - TruGEN™ material maintains a clear and aesthetic appearance throughout wear, even when consuming beverages such as coffee, tea or red wine.
• Affordability - Spark® aligners offer a good balance between performance, comfort and cost. 

Other types of aesthetic dental appliances 

• Lingual braces - applied to the inside of the teeth, so they are not visible and provide discretion during treatment
• Self-ligating physiognomic braces - use tooth-coloured brackets and a special mechanism without elastic ligatures, with minimal aesthetic impact.
• Mixed braces - a combination of ceramic brackets on the front teeth and metal brackets on the back teeth

Aesthetic discretion

Clear braces are preferred because the aligners are almost imperceptible. In professional or social settings, this makes a major difference, as braces are no longer an eye-catching feature, but a discreet detail.

Greater comfort for the patient

Clear braces are made from patented, biocompatible materials. They have the advantage of not irritating the lips and cheeks, nor do they significantly change the patient's lifestyle. Even fixed braces with aesthetic brackets are designed for increased comfort.

Significantly better oral hygiene

Unlike fixed metal braces, removable aligners allow for normal brushing and proper flossing, which facilitates better hygiene. This reduces the risk of cavities, gingivitis and tooth stains, problems commonly associated with metal braces.

Predictable digital planning

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign or Spark, use technologies that ensure precision in treatment planning. The patient can see a simulation of the final result from the outset, which helps them understand the entire process.

Easy maintenance

There are no strict dietary restrictions, and aligners are easy to clean. Fixed transparent braces require extra care, but are easier to maintain than metal ones. 

The cost of clear aligners can vary significantly, as it is influenced by several factors. These include the type of aligner chosen, the materials used, the complexity of the orthodontic case, and the total duration of treatment.  

In the case of alignment systems, such as Invisalign, the price is also influenced by the number of aligners needed to achieve the desired result.

At DENT ESTET clinics, the price of ceramic or sapphire braces can range from 5,700 to 6,200 RON per arch. As for Invisalign braces, the price can start at 2,100 EUR per arch, but the final price is determined based on the personalised treatment plan.  

The final cost is always determined after an orthodontic consultation and a detailed assessment of each case. We invite you to consult the prices of transparent braces on the orthodontics price list page.  

Invisible braces are a suitable option for those who want effective orthodontic correction without a visible impact on their smile. They are often chosen by adults who value discretion and by professionally active people for whom aesthetics and everyday comfort are essential.

This type of braces is also recommended for motivated teenagers who are able to follow the instructions for wearing aligners, as well as patients who seek a high level of comfort during treatment. Invisible braces are particularly suitable for mild to moderate cases of dental misalignment.

In more complex situations, the orthodontist may recommend alternatives, such as fixed appliances with sapphire or ceramic brackets, which offer greater control over tooth movement.

"Modern orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth, it's a complete transformation of the experience. Clear aligners are a discreet and effective alternative for correcting certain orthodontic problems without affecting our lifestyle. Whether we're talking about elegant sapphire braces or the advanced digital technology behind the Invisalign system, these solutions represent tremendous progress: patients can have a beautiful smile while continuing to feel confident at all times. Dental transformation is no longer a difficult and visible process, but a discreet and personalised journey towards a more harmonious version of one's own smile," says Dr. Valeria Ștefănescu, Specialist in Orthodontics and Dento-Facial Orthopaedics at DENT ESTET clinics.  

1. Initial consultation and 3D digital scan

Invisalign treatment begins with a detailed consultation with a specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics from the DENT ESTET team. During this session, the doctor assesses the position of the teeth, the bite and overall oral health.  

Investigations such as 3D digital impressions and digital X-rays provide an accurate image of the dental arches, without the need for traditional impressions, providing the basis for a personalised treatment plan.

2. Detailed digital plan

The scan results are sent to the developers of the Invisalign® dental appliance, who use ClinCheck® technology to create a detailed digital plan for the final alignment.  

This simulates the tooth movements step by step and allows you to preview the final result of the treatment right from the start. The plan is tailored to each patient's needs and can be adjusted before the actual treatment begins.

3. Manufacturing customised aligners

Invisalign aligners are made individually according to the approved digital plan. Each aligner is designed to apply controlled pressure to specific teeth, gradually guiding them into the correct position. The material is transparent, comfortable and suitable for daily wear.

4. Wearing aligners 20–22 hours/day

For the treatment to be effective, aligners must be worn between 20 and 22 hours a day and removed only during meals and oral hygiene.  

At intervals of approximately 7–14 days, you can change your set of aligners, as directed by your dentist, to continue the correct progress of dental alignment.

5. Regular check-ups

Visits to the orthodontist's office are usually less frequent than with fixed braces. These visits allow the progress of the treatment to be monitored and the aligners to be adjusted if necessary.

6. Retention after treatment

After achieving the desired result, the retention phase is essential. Your dentist will recommend wearing retainers to keep your teeth in their new position and prevent relapse.

Frequently asked questions about invisible braces

Are transparent braces visible?

The aligners are almost invisible, while the sapphire brackets blend in very well with the surface of the teeth.

How long does treatment with invisible braces take?  

On average, 6–24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Is it painful?

The discomfort is mild and occurs mainly at the beginning or when changing the aligner.

How much does invisible braces cost?

The price of transparent braces varies depending on the type chosen, but also on the complexity of the case. Prices can range from 5,700 to 6,200 RON for fixed physiognomic braces, and start at 2,400 euros per arch for dental aligners.  

1. American Association of Orthodontists
2. Invisalign Official
3. How Does Invisalign Straighten Teeth?, Verywell Health, 2024
4. The Orthodontic Revolution: Invisalign, a modern solution, Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 2024
5. Assessment of Patient-Reported Outcomes in the Use of Clear Aligners Compared to Conventional Fixed Braces, PubMed, 2025