Orthodontics (Braces)
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on treatments such as tooth straightening using orthodontic braces, as well as addressing problems pertaining to the jaw. The aim of orthodontics is to produce a healthy, functioning bite, creating higher resistance to disease processes and improving your facial appearance.
There are two main types of braces:
1. Fixed braces (small brackets that are cemented to the teeth for the duration of the treatment);
Metal
Ceramic
2. Removable braces
3. Others
Functional appliances
- These are used to harness the growth of the jaws and improve the way the upper and lower teeth meet. There are several designs, all of which fit onto both the upper and lower teeth and move the lower jaw forward.
- They are mostly removable but should be worn as near to full-time as possible. These are usually worn during childhood and early adolescence.
Invisalign®
- Invisalign® is an ingenious new system designed to straighten teeth discreetly, with inconspicuous aligners rather than obvious metal brackets. The Invisalign® system uses clear, custom-made aligners to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. Patients progress to a new aligner every few weeks. The aligners are clear and thin, and also removable, making eating, drinking, and brushing much simpler.
Detailed information about the patient’s teeth is required to create a custom fit for the aligners. In order to decide what treatment is appropriate for you, your orthodontist will need to carry out a full assessment of your teeth which is likely to include x-rays, impressions (molds of the teeth) and photographs. Treatment can take more than 2 years so it is important you are happy with what is recommended from the outset.
Advantages of Braces
- Improve one’s self-esteem.
- Minimises tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction and chewing difficulties.
- Reduce risk of tooth loss, chipped teeth and other dental injuries.
- Improve speech.
What is the process of Orthodontics (Braces)?
- Pre-treatment evaluation and Treatment Planning.
- Examination & Diagnosis
- X-ray and U/L Study models
- Photos
- Extraction or non Extraction case.
- Placement of Separators.
- Band & Bracket Placement
- Monthly Review & Adjustment
- Debond / Removal of Braces
- Retainers
2 year Braces Treatment can straighten your teeth but retention of straightened teeth will need more time. Our teeth move throughout life, though at a very slow rate.
Teeth that have been moved orthodontically have a tendency to move back to their former position. When Braces are removed, is it important not to miss your “issue Retainer” appointment. Risk of relapse is greater in the first few months following removal of your braces. Therefore, it is crucial that patients are diligent in wearing their retainer at all times except when you are brushing your teeth or eating. We recommend that retainers are worn consistently on a full-time basis for the first 1 to 6 months. Subsequently, the retainers may be worn only at night. Scientific studies show the need for retainers to be life-long.
Suitability for Orthodontics ( Braces )
- Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics with treatment time typically being longer for adults.
- Healthy teeth, gum, bone and good oral hygiene.
How long to wait after extraction?
Normally 1 week is required as separators placed at the molar teeth will take 5 to 7 days to create sufficient interdental spaces for fitting of the molar bands.
How long do I have to wait to achieve nice straight teeth?
After Stage 1 (Level & Alignment) is completed, an improvement can already be seen. You will notice straighter teeth, though extraction spaces will still be present.
Stage 2 (Space closure) follows. Using rubber bands or bite plates may be bothersome but it is important to be diligent in wearing your rubber bands or bite plates as prescribed.
Stage 3 (Finishing stage) involves tidying up the bite of the upper and lower teeth. Also, to ensure that every tooth is in the right angulation and alignment.
Total treatment time normally ranges from 1.5 to 2 years, depending on the degree of cooperation of the patient, density of the bone and the complexity of the case. Keeping to appointments and taking good care of your braces and teeth can help you achieve a beautiful smile sooner.
Is it Painful?
Most orthodontic patients will experience some discomfort and tightness the first few days after their braces have been put on, and right after the braces are tightened. After a few days, your teeth will gradually acclimatise to them and the initial discomfort associated with the braces should improve or be gone. Our dentist can provide clear wax to apply over the braces as necessary which can help alleviate irritation to the lips and inner cheeks. However, if after a few days any part of your braces is causing continual soreness, please come back to see us.
How soon can I eat and function after putting on Braces?
Immediately. Adopting a soft diet is advised for the first few days to adapt to “ new and rougher” tooth surfaces, change in biting contacts and soreness due to movement of the teeth.
Sometimes when a brace is fitted, it may affect your speech and cause problems in articulating certain words. Lisping may also be a problem at first, but most people soon adapt and quickly begin to speak clearly within a few days.
How to take care of my teeth after I put on Braces? Post-Braces Care
It is extremely important that you take the time and effort needed to keep your teeth and braces clean. This will help you avoid problems such as dental decay, inflamed gums, and tooth decalcification. Decalcification is mineral calcium being lost from the surfaces of the teeth, leaving white spots on your teeth after your braces have been removed. It is also important to have routine dental examinations with us while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. This is to make sure that your teeth and mouth stay healthy.
- Keep clean by brushing twice a day using a small soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing daily to remove any plaque build-up
- Cleaning after each meal
- Use interdental brushes
- Use a fluoride mouthrinse. Regular use of fluoride can help to prevent dental decay and tooth decalcification. You should only use them under the guidance and supervision of your dentist.
- Visit your dentist twice a year.
What if I lose or damage my brace?
If you lose or damage your brace, tell us as soon as possible. Do not wait until your next routine appointment as when you are not wearing your brace, or if it is not in the correct position, it affects your treatment and increases the likelihood that your teeth will go back to their former position.
Patient Cost For Braces
Initial payment is required for material fee. The balance will normally be distributed over 24 months as patients return monthly to tighten the wire in order to complete their treatment by the proposed time frame, which is usually 2 years.
How long is the treatment time
In general, active treatment time with braces ranges from 1.5 to 2 years. The exact timeframe is dependent on the degree of cooperation of the patient and the severity of the problem. Keeping to appointments, taking good care of the braces and using rubber bands or bite plates, if prescribed, all contribute to expedition of the treatment.
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur
Orthodontic treatment normally starts after all milk teeth have been replaced by permanent teeth. For a very small percentage of patients, jaw discrepancies should start at an early age. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications.
Why Choose US for Braces?
Beautiful Smile, Beautiful life… this is exactly what we want to help our patients to enjoy better quality of life
ALL our doctors who are practising Orthodontics/ Braces had proper training. We started providing Orthodontics/ Braces treatments since 2006 -2007. We care about you like you’re our own family. We are proud to say that we are still seeing many of our “young” patients that have completed their treatments more than 10 years ago, as they are already part of our FAMILY.
We commit in most advanced modern orthodontic techniques, technological tools, equipment and materials so that we can provide the highest quality care and personalized service in a welcoming, compassionate and comfortable atmosphere. It is our attention to detail and the excellent service we provide sets us apart
We are always around when you need us as we want to be your personal dentists. See your own dentist at every visit for continuity and integrity of your treatment. Your personal dentist knows your treatment histories and treatment best.
After you complete your treatment, WE always practice a NO FEE “after-treatment-service”, we will review you and check your retainers 6 monthly, to make sure you continue to smile beautifully and confidently.
We offer free consultation, and we will explain your treatment plan, achievable goal before you commit. Our treatment fee is sensitive and affordable. We have flexi interest-free payment plan to meet your needs.
Call us now.