Dental Braces
Straighten crooked teeth and improve bite function with traditional or clear braces.
What are Dental Braces?
Dental braces are orthodontic appliances designed to straighten crooked teeth and correct misaligned jaws. They work by applying gentle, constant pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions.
Beyond aesthetics, braces can improve your oral health by addressing issues such as crooked teeth and jaw misalignment. This makes it easier to clean your teeth effectively, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
With various types available, including metal, ceramic, damon and Invisalign are suitable for people of all ages. Treatment duration typically ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on the complexity of the case.
Who needs Braces?
Gaps/Spacing
Extra space or gaps between teeth can lead to issues with chewing, speech, and the overall appearance of your smile.
Protruding Teeth
(Excessive Overjet)
If your upper front teeth extend too far over your lower teeth.
Overbite
When the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth vertically.
Underbite (Reverse Overjet)
Occurs when the lower jaw protrudes further than the upper jaw.
Overcrowding
When teeth are unable to fit properly due to limited space in the jaw, overcrowding happens. Teeth can be pushed forward, backward, upwards, overlapped, or twisted.
Deep Bite (Overbite)
When your upper teeth significantly overlap your lower teeth, it can lead to excessive wear and tear.
Open Bite
When the front teeth don't meet when the mouth is closed.
Cross Bite
If some of your upper teeth sit behind your lower teeth, it can impact your bite and jaw alignment.
Do I need Braces?
Whether or not you need braces depends on several factors, including:
- Alignment: Are your teeth crooked, crowded, or gappy?
- Bite: Do your teeth meet properly when you bite down? Are you experiencing an overbite, underbite, or crossbite?
- Jaw Joint: Do you experience jaw pain or clicking sounds?
If your answer is mostly yes, getting braces might help to resolve these issues. Consult our doctors to find out the best treatment plan for you.
The ideal age to start wearing braces is typically between 10 to 13 years old, or when all your permanent teeth are out. However, there is no right time to start wearing braces, even adults are suitable. To determine if braces are right for you, it’s best to consult with our orthodontist.
Types of Braces
FAQ
The slight discomfort and tightness you experience will lessen as you get used to your dental braces. Your teeth are in the process of straightening and will feel more comfortable over time.
If ulcers develop on the side of your cheeks or lips due to the friction from the braces, you can relieve it with dental wax provided by our dentist or bought over the counter at pharmacies.
Do inform our dentist should you need help with managing any discomfort.
It might take a day or two to get used to talking and eating with your newly fixed braces in your mouth. In the meantime, also avoid biting on hard pieces of food such as whole uncut apples, to prevent your braces from dislodging.
If your braces become loose, call our clinic right away. You might need to book an earlier appointment to reapply your braces. Meanwhile, use dental wax to cover any sharp points and protect your mouth from getting cut.
If the bracket (part of the braces that attaches to each tooth) comes off, use a pair of clean tweezers to move it securely between teeth or on to a tooth to prevent it from sliding around.
Depending on the structure and placement of your teeth, extractions might be required to make space for bringing the rest of them into alignment. Your orthodontist will evaluate your specific needs and provide guidance accordingly.
A quicker way to achieve straight teeth is by getting veneers, where a new set of teeth are bonded onto natural teeth. This process takes only a few visits to complete, as compared to braces which takes 1 – 2 years. Veneers can also improve the look of your teeth.
However, getting a set of veneers is more costly than braces. To find out if you are suitable for veneers, call us at 6336 6222 or submit an online enquiry with our form and we will be in touch with you.
Apart from the required dental visits when you are wearing braces, it’s recommended to go for regular check-ups and retainer use to maintain your new, straight smile. Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their correct position. In some cases, certain retainers can also protect your teeth from grinding and clenching.
Book your appointment
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