The Complete Guide to Braces in Singapore (2025)
Written by:
Written by:
Dr Daniel
Dr Daniel
Reviewed by:
Reviewed by:
Dr Bela
Dr Bela
Health
Health
7 minutes
7 minutes
22 Feb 2025
22 Feb 2025
Many people dread getting braces placed on.
Many people dread getting braces placed on.
Many people dread getting braces placed on.
However, this procedure can correct a malocclusion, which is a misalignment of the top and lower sets of teeth while the mouth is closed.
If you want to learn more about braces, whether you are about to visit a dentist in Singapore for braces or Invisalign, or you are a parent planning it for your child, look no further!
In this article, I'll explain all you need to know about braces treatment in Singapore.
What are braces?
Orthodontics is a discipline of dentistry that focuses on treating individuals with crooked teeth.
This is accomplished by employing a combination of braces and appliances to align teeth and correct bite problems. These treatments help to guarantee that your teeth fit together properly, giving you a beautiful smile.
Braces operate by exerting pressure to your teeth over time. This pressure gradually directs your teeth in the desired direction. When pressure is applied to your teeth, the bone that supports them changes shape as well. Braces can be either fixed or detachable.
Clear aligners, such as those produced by Invisalign, are an example of detachable braces.
Are braces safe?
Most people find that the procedure for putting on braces is relatively safe. However, there are some minor hazards you should be aware of.
Patients with severe nickel allergies may wish to avoid standard metal braces. Nickel is commonly found in the materials used for their brackets and cables. If you are always uncomfortable when wearing non-precious jewelry, you should get tested for nickel allergy.
Fortunately, you may now choose from a variety of alternatives. Patients should speak with their orthodontist/dentist about these concerns.
Other common problems you may encounter include:
An increased risk of ulcers. This is usually caused to inflammation from the braces.
Periodontal disease and deterioration. This happens when a person wears braces yet has poor dental hygiene.
Fixed appliances, such as traditional braces, are more likely to experience these issues than detachable appliances.
At what age is it best to receive braces in Singapore?
Unfortunately, there is no universally applicable answer to this topic.
Generally, most individuals begin active treatment between the ages of 12 and 14. This is roughly the time when all of the baby teeth fall out and are replaced with a new set of adult teeth.
However, some individuals can begin wearing braces as early as the age of seven. This may be necessary in some patients due to a difference in jaw growth or incorrect alignment of coming teeth.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child have a proper check-up with an orthodontist by the age of seven. This is significant because issues such as incorrect jaw growth or erupting teeth can be corrected. These conditions may be easier to treat if detected early enough to prevent larger issues.
Early treatment may afford your orthodontist the opportunity to:
Guide jaw growth
Reduces the danger of harm from projecting top front teeth
Correct bad behaviors like thumb-sucking
Improve look
Guide the eruption of permanent teeth to a better place
If you notice any of the following issues in your child, they may need to see an orthodontist:
Crowding, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Early loss of teeth
Retained baby teeth after becoming 13 years old
Having difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing and snoring
Finger sucking and other oral practices
Difficulty in generating specific sounds
A jaw that is abnormally long or short, tilted to one side, moves when biting, or makes noise
Protruding upper or lower teeth
Biting on the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
Gaps between teeth
Teeth that meet improperly or not at all
Is tooth extraction necessary for braces?
Space is required to straighten crowded teeth and place them in the optimal position for facial harmony. Space can be produced using:
Expansion of dental arch
Proclination of teeth
Interproximal decrease of tooth contacts
Distalization of teeth
Tooth extraction
Fortunately, with early intervention and advances in brace technology, extractions are significantly less common than they used to be. However, for the best orthodontic results, extraction is occasionally necessary. This is especially true when orthodontic movement requires a significant amount of room.
It is essential to speak with your dentist/orthodontist about any concerns you may have and to learn about your available treatment choices.
Who can provide brace treatment in Singapore?
Orthodontics, also known as braces, is a discipline of dentistry that treats individuals who have crooked teeth.
This sort of dentistry necessitates more sophisticated dental education. These abilities are not covered in the most basic dentistry bachelor's degree programs.
According to the Singapore Dental Council's standards, any registered dentist can administer braces procedure, although it's recommended that you go with an orthodontist. Patients can seek treatment from either a conventional dentist or an orthodontist. However, each dentist's level of experience and knowledge in orthodontics vary.
General dentists can expand their orthodontic knowledge by taking part-time courses and attending conferences. The amount of practical experience differs among general dentists. Some general dentists provide excellent orthodontic work. Others may have limited practical experience treating malocclusions.
Orthodontists are Ministry of Health-certified dental professionals with proven experience in the treatment of misaligned teeth using braces, as well as the management and adjustment of various aspects of face and jaw growth.
An orthodontist first completes three years of full-time specialized training in a recognized orthodontic residency school (Master's degree).
There, they learn how to control tooth movement and steer facial development. After gaining at least five years of clinical experience in orthodontics, individuals can get recognized by the Singapore Dental Council by passing an exit test administered by the Dental Specialist Accreditation Board.
They apply their knowledge and abilities to help you achieve the best potential results by identifying and preparing the best treatment alternatives for you.
If you want to learn more about your dentist/orthodontist's qualifications, visit the Singapore Dental Council website. The Association of Orthodontists (Singapore) website also contains a list of orthodontists/dentists who have formal approved orthodontic training.
How long will I have to wear my braces?
The duration of treatment relies on two factors:
Case complexity
Age of the patient
Braces treatment typically takes between 2-3 years to complete. Cases involving extraction or a combination of jaw surgery will take longer to accomplish. Adult patients may also expect a longer treatment time than young children.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of braces?
Metal Braces
Metal braces are produced from medical-grade stainless steel.
The advantages:
Most affordable braces
They work 24/7
Disadvantages:
Visible metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces can be produced from:
Ceramic
Sapphire
Composite material
The advantages:
Brackets are tooth-coloured or clear, which lowers the visibility of braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Visible wires and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Self-Ligating Braces
Metal and ceramic variants are available. Braces feature a self-locking system.
The advantages:
Self-locking systems reduce the need for rubber ties on individual brackets
The force used on the teeth is gentler than regular braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Wires are visible
The wires might cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Rubber ties get soiled with colored food and drinks like curry and coffee
Lingual braces
These are fixed braces. They are, however, linked to the teeth's inner surface, which faces the tongue. They're constructed of stainless steel or gold.
The advantages:
They work 24/7
Invisible from the outside
Negative aspects:
The most expensive form of braces
Can hinder speaking and irritate the tongue
Not often utilized and may not be done by all dentists or orthodontists
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Invisible braces
One well-known example is Invisalign's clear aligners. They're made of thermoplastic material.
The advantages:
Clear or almost invisible
Removeable (for cleaning and during eating)
Simple to clean
No food restrictions
Most comfy to wear
Causes the least discomfort to the gums and cheeks
Less disturbance to daily routines
Fewer reviews and emergency visits
Negative aspects:
More pricey than regular braces
Requires patient discipline. Patients are required to wear aligners for a specific amount of time. The optimal wear time is 22 hours per day
What Is the Average Cost of Braces in Singapore?
The cost of braces varies greatly from clinic to clinic. It is highly dependent on a few things, including:
The extent of treatment you require
Complex instances including extraction or jaw surgery can require a longer treatment period and, hence, are more expensive
Types of orthodontic materials used
The level of experience of the dentist or orthodontist
Most clinics offer installment arrangements. They could be related to credit card firms or in-house installment plans. Clinics may have varying instalment programs and down payment terms; please consult with your preferred clinic about such arrangements.
The following are the average costs for each type of braces:
Invisalign: $5500 to $10000
Metal braces: $3500 to $7000
Ceramic braces: $4200 to $8000
Self-ligating braces: $4500 to $8000
Lingual Braces: $7000 to $15000
Can I use Medisave for braces?
Unfortunately, we cannot use Medisave for braces treatment. However, Medisave may partially pay adjunct procedures associated with your braces treatment. These procedures include:
Exposure or extraction of impacted teeth
Gold chain bonding and jaw surgery procedures
Most dentists and orthodontists will provide installment plans to make braces treatment more affordable. Consult with your dentist/orthodontist about your financing alternatives.
What foods can I consume while wearing braces?
Your teeth will most likely feel sore during the first week after having your braces fixed or after your braces adjustment appointment.
As a result, you may not be in the ideal mood to chew your meal.
But don't worry, you won't go hungry throughout this period. You should eat items that will boost your mood and brighten your day. Anything soft and cool is the greatest option for hurting teeth.
Here are some cold and soft meal options for hurting teeth:
Ice cream
Jelly
Pudding
Yoghurt
Soft fruits (such as oranges and ripe mangoes)
Smoothies
Milkshakes
Bean curd
Cakes (mousse-based, chiffon, sponge)
If you like something warm, consider the following options:
Macaroni with cheese
Mashed potatoes
Porridge
Tofu
Fish
Poached or soft-boiled eggs
Soup
Patients using removable braces, such as Invisalign, have no food limitations, whereas patients with fixed braces must exercise caution when choosing what to consume.
Braces are applied to the teeth using dental adhesive. Eating hard foods can cause the braces brackets to loosen from the teeth. Some examples of hard foods are:
Nuts
Hard candies
Pretzels
Nachos
Popcorn
Ice
You might also want to avoid sticky and sweet foods. They may attach to your teeth or braces, increasing your risk of tooth decay. Maintaining proper oral hygiene can also help prevent tooth decay.
How can I maintain good dental hygiene while wearing braces?
To maintain appropriate oral hygiene while wearing braces, clean your teeth for at least two times each day. Do not rush through your dental cleaning. It requires time and effort to reach all places, even behind the wires, to eliminate dental plaque and food particles.
Flossing between your teeth is an essential aspect of your dental hygiene regimen. It should be done at least once daily. To help floss your teeth, use super-floss or a floss threader. If your hands aren't as nimble, you might want to consider purchasing a water floss machine.
Brush over your teeth's biting surfaces, as well as your wires and braces. Next, angulate your brush bristles towards your nose for your lower teeth and downwards towards your chin for your top teeth to ensure that food is removed from below the bracket hooks.
Pay close attention to the places in the rear of your mouth where your bands are.
Make sure no food is trapped there. Finally, clean the inner surface of your teeth by holding your toothbrush vertically at the front teeth and horizontally angulated towards your gum with a little jiggling motion.
Make sure the bristles of your toothbrush are between each braces bracket and underneath your wires. An orthodontic brush with a V-shape design allows you to more easily brush particular areas.
If you believe that using an electric toothbrush will help you brush more effectively, feel free to do so. You may also want to use an end tuft brush to get to those hard-to-reach corners, especially during the early stages of treatment when your teeth are still crooked. You might also wish to use an interdental brush to clean underneath the brackets.
After you've finished brushing your teeth, look in the mirror. Check to check if you have removed all of the plaque and food particles.
How frequently will I need adjustments?
Adjustments for fixed or lingual braces are typically performed every 4-8 weeks.
This allows for the reactivation of braces and increased movement. Readjustment visits normally last 15 to 30 minutes. The adjustment interval is also determined by the stage of treatment and the preferences of your dentist or orthodontist. Your dentist/orthodontist may visit you less frequently in the early phases of therapy and more frequently near the conclusion of treatment.
Invisalign treatments may require periodic checkups every 6-12 weeks. The frequency of these reviews is also determined by the stage of treatment and the patient's compliance.
How do I care for my teeth after my braces are removed?
Congratulations on your amazing new smile!
However, you must understand that removing your braces is not the end. Your teeth enjoy moving and will continue to do so throughout your life.
The tongue and cheek muscles move and put pressure on our teeth, which might cause them to move. If you want your teeth to stay in good condition, you must wear your retainers for a few years.
Many orthodontists recommend wearing your retainers full-time for the first six months after you get your braces removed.
After that, you can continue to wear it at night. It is also critical to have regular assessments with your orthodontist/dentist to ensure your retainer is in good shape and tight.
He/she can also examine the condition and alignment of your teeth and make any required changes and corrections. Retreatment may be required if this is postponed for an extended period of time. I typically see my patients every six months to a year after braces therapy.
This is so I can advise them on their retainer strategy.
If you are concerned about retainer discipline, you should speak with your dentist/orthodontist about the possibility of using a fixed retainer.
Conclusion
A proper treatment plan will ensure that the desired outcome of orthodontic treatment is achieved. It is also critical for the treatment's success that a dental professional closely monitor the progression of the braces' treatment throughout.
Monitoring ensures that any issues during therapy are treated at the appropriate time. Failure to do so may result in irreversible damage to the tooth structure, which can be costly to rectify.
Brace treatment is a fantastic adventure that may bring out the best in you while also having a significant impact on your emotional well-being.
Because orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment (usually two years), pick a dentist/orthodontist you trust and feel comfortable with. Make sure they understand your worries and have the ability to offer you the gorgeous smile you want.
However, this procedure can correct a malocclusion, which is a misalignment of the top and lower sets of teeth while the mouth is closed.
If you want to learn more about braces, whether you are about to visit a dentist in Singapore for braces or Invisalign, or you are a parent planning it for your child, look no further!
In this article, I'll explain all you need to know about braces treatment in Singapore.
What are braces?
Orthodontics is a discipline of dentistry that focuses on treating individuals with crooked teeth.
This is accomplished by employing a combination of braces and appliances to align teeth and correct bite problems. These treatments help to guarantee that your teeth fit together properly, giving you a beautiful smile.
Braces operate by exerting pressure to your teeth over time. This pressure gradually directs your teeth in the desired direction. When pressure is applied to your teeth, the bone that supports them changes shape as well. Braces can be either fixed or detachable.
Clear aligners, such as those produced by Invisalign, are an example of detachable braces.
Are braces safe?
Most people find that the procedure for putting on braces is relatively safe. However, there are some minor hazards you should be aware of.
Patients with severe nickel allergies may wish to avoid standard metal braces. Nickel is commonly found in the materials used for their brackets and cables. If you are always uncomfortable when wearing non-precious jewelry, you should get tested for nickel allergy.
Fortunately, you may now choose from a variety of alternatives. Patients should speak with their orthodontist/dentist about these concerns.
Other common problems you may encounter include:
An increased risk of ulcers. This is usually caused to inflammation from the braces.
Periodontal disease and deterioration. This happens when a person wears braces yet has poor dental hygiene.
Fixed appliances, such as traditional braces, are more likely to experience these issues than detachable appliances.
At what age is it best to receive braces in Singapore?
Unfortunately, there is no universally applicable answer to this topic.
Generally, most individuals begin active treatment between the ages of 12 and 14. This is roughly the time when all of the baby teeth fall out and are replaced with a new set of adult teeth.
However, some individuals can begin wearing braces as early as the age of seven. This may be necessary in some patients due to a difference in jaw growth or incorrect alignment of coming teeth.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child have a proper check-up with an orthodontist by the age of seven. This is significant because issues such as incorrect jaw growth or erupting teeth can be corrected. These conditions may be easier to treat if detected early enough to prevent larger issues.
Early treatment may afford your orthodontist the opportunity to:
Guide jaw growth
Reduces the danger of harm from projecting top front teeth
Correct bad behaviors like thumb-sucking
Improve look
Guide the eruption of permanent teeth to a better place
If you notice any of the following issues in your child, they may need to see an orthodontist:
Crowding, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Early loss of teeth
Retained baby teeth after becoming 13 years old
Having difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing and snoring
Finger sucking and other oral practices
Difficulty in generating specific sounds
A jaw that is abnormally long or short, tilted to one side, moves when biting, or makes noise
Protruding upper or lower teeth
Biting on the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
Gaps between teeth
Teeth that meet improperly or not at all
Is tooth extraction necessary for braces?
Space is required to straighten crowded teeth and place them in the optimal position for facial harmony. Space can be produced using:
Expansion of dental arch
Proclination of teeth
Interproximal decrease of tooth contacts
Distalization of teeth
Tooth extraction
Fortunately, with early intervention and advances in brace technology, extractions are significantly less common than they used to be. However, for the best orthodontic results, extraction is occasionally necessary. This is especially true when orthodontic movement requires a significant amount of room.
It is essential to speak with your dentist/orthodontist about any concerns you may have and to learn about your available treatment choices.
Who can provide brace treatment in Singapore?
Orthodontics, also known as braces, is a discipline of dentistry that treats individuals who have crooked teeth.
This sort of dentistry necessitates more sophisticated dental education. These abilities are not covered in the most basic dentistry bachelor's degree programs.
According to the Singapore Dental Council's standards, any registered dentist can administer braces procedure, although it's recommended that you go with an orthodontist. Patients can seek treatment from either a conventional dentist or an orthodontist. However, each dentist's level of experience and knowledge in orthodontics vary.
General dentists can expand their orthodontic knowledge by taking part-time courses and attending conferences. The amount of practical experience differs among general dentists. Some general dentists provide excellent orthodontic work. Others may have limited practical experience treating malocclusions.
Orthodontists are Ministry of Health-certified dental professionals with proven experience in the treatment of misaligned teeth using braces, as well as the management and adjustment of various aspects of face and jaw growth.
An orthodontist first completes three years of full-time specialized training in a recognized orthodontic residency school (Master's degree).
There, they learn how to control tooth movement and steer facial development. After gaining at least five years of clinical experience in orthodontics, individuals can get recognized by the Singapore Dental Council by passing an exit test administered by the Dental Specialist Accreditation Board.
They apply their knowledge and abilities to help you achieve the best potential results by identifying and preparing the best treatment alternatives for you.
If you want to learn more about your dentist/orthodontist's qualifications, visit the Singapore Dental Council website. The Association of Orthodontists (Singapore) website also contains a list of orthodontists/dentists who have formal approved orthodontic training.
How long will I have to wear my braces?
The duration of treatment relies on two factors:
Case complexity
Age of the patient
Braces treatment typically takes between 2-3 years to complete. Cases involving extraction or a combination of jaw surgery will take longer to accomplish. Adult patients may also expect a longer treatment time than young children.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of braces?
Metal Braces
Metal braces are produced from medical-grade stainless steel.
The advantages:
Most affordable braces
They work 24/7
Disadvantages:
Visible metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces can be produced from:
Ceramic
Sapphire
Composite material
The advantages:
Brackets are tooth-coloured or clear, which lowers the visibility of braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Visible wires and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Self-Ligating Braces
Metal and ceramic variants are available. Braces feature a self-locking system.
The advantages:
Self-locking systems reduce the need for rubber ties on individual brackets
The force used on the teeth is gentler than regular braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Wires are visible
The wires might cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Rubber ties get soiled with colored food and drinks like curry and coffee
Lingual braces
These are fixed braces. They are, however, linked to the teeth's inner surface, which faces the tongue. They're constructed of stainless steel or gold.
The advantages:
They work 24/7
Invisible from the outside
Negative aspects:
The most expensive form of braces
Can hinder speaking and irritate the tongue
Not often utilized and may not be done by all dentists or orthodontists
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Invisible braces
One well-known example is Invisalign's clear aligners. They're made of thermoplastic material.
The advantages:
Clear or almost invisible
Removeable (for cleaning and during eating)
Simple to clean
No food restrictions
Most comfy to wear
Causes the least discomfort to the gums and cheeks
Less disturbance to daily routines
Fewer reviews and emergency visits
Negative aspects:
More pricey than regular braces
Requires patient discipline. Patients are required to wear aligners for a specific amount of time. The optimal wear time is 22 hours per day
What Is the Average Cost of Braces in Singapore?
The cost of braces varies greatly from clinic to clinic. It is highly dependent on a few things, including:
The extent of treatment you require
Complex instances including extraction or jaw surgery can require a longer treatment period and, hence, are more expensive
Types of orthodontic materials used
The level of experience of the dentist or orthodontist
Most clinics offer installment arrangements. They could be related to credit card firms or in-house installment plans. Clinics may have varying instalment programs and down payment terms; please consult with your preferred clinic about such arrangements.
The following are the average costs for each type of braces:
Invisalign: $5500 to $10000
Metal braces: $3500 to $7000
Ceramic braces: $4200 to $8000
Self-ligating braces: $4500 to $8000
Lingual Braces: $7000 to $15000
Can I use Medisave for braces?
Unfortunately, we cannot use Medisave for braces treatment. However, Medisave may partially pay adjunct procedures associated with your braces treatment. These procedures include:
Exposure or extraction of impacted teeth
Gold chain bonding and jaw surgery procedures
Most dentists and orthodontists will provide installment plans to make braces treatment more affordable. Consult with your dentist/orthodontist about your financing alternatives.
What foods can I consume while wearing braces?
Your teeth will most likely feel sore during the first week after having your braces fixed or after your braces adjustment appointment.
As a result, you may not be in the ideal mood to chew your meal.
But don't worry, you won't go hungry throughout this period. You should eat items that will boost your mood and brighten your day. Anything soft and cool is the greatest option for hurting teeth.
Here are some cold and soft meal options for hurting teeth:
Ice cream
Jelly
Pudding
Yoghurt
Soft fruits (such as oranges and ripe mangoes)
Smoothies
Milkshakes
Bean curd
Cakes (mousse-based, chiffon, sponge)
If you like something warm, consider the following options:
Macaroni with cheese
Mashed potatoes
Porridge
Tofu
Fish
Poached or soft-boiled eggs
Soup
Patients using removable braces, such as Invisalign, have no food limitations, whereas patients with fixed braces must exercise caution when choosing what to consume.
Braces are applied to the teeth using dental adhesive. Eating hard foods can cause the braces brackets to loosen from the teeth. Some examples of hard foods are:
Nuts
Hard candies
Pretzels
Nachos
Popcorn
Ice
You might also want to avoid sticky and sweet foods. They may attach to your teeth or braces, increasing your risk of tooth decay. Maintaining proper oral hygiene can also help prevent tooth decay.
How can I maintain good dental hygiene while wearing braces?
To maintain appropriate oral hygiene while wearing braces, clean your teeth for at least two times each day. Do not rush through your dental cleaning. It requires time and effort to reach all places, even behind the wires, to eliminate dental plaque and food particles.
Flossing between your teeth is an essential aspect of your dental hygiene regimen. It should be done at least once daily. To help floss your teeth, use super-floss or a floss threader. If your hands aren't as nimble, you might want to consider purchasing a water floss machine.
Brush over your teeth's biting surfaces, as well as your wires and braces. Next, angulate your brush bristles towards your nose for your lower teeth and downwards towards your chin for your top teeth to ensure that food is removed from below the bracket hooks.
Pay close attention to the places in the rear of your mouth where your bands are.
Make sure no food is trapped there. Finally, clean the inner surface of your teeth by holding your toothbrush vertically at the front teeth and horizontally angulated towards your gum with a little jiggling motion.
Make sure the bristles of your toothbrush are between each braces bracket and underneath your wires. An orthodontic brush with a V-shape design allows you to more easily brush particular areas.
If you believe that using an electric toothbrush will help you brush more effectively, feel free to do so. You may also want to use an end tuft brush to get to those hard-to-reach corners, especially during the early stages of treatment when your teeth are still crooked. You might also wish to use an interdental brush to clean underneath the brackets.
After you've finished brushing your teeth, look in the mirror. Check to check if you have removed all of the plaque and food particles.
How frequently will I need adjustments?
Adjustments for fixed or lingual braces are typically performed every 4-8 weeks.
This allows for the reactivation of braces and increased movement. Readjustment visits normally last 15 to 30 minutes. The adjustment interval is also determined by the stage of treatment and the preferences of your dentist or orthodontist. Your dentist/orthodontist may visit you less frequently in the early phases of therapy and more frequently near the conclusion of treatment.
Invisalign treatments may require periodic checkups every 6-12 weeks. The frequency of these reviews is also determined by the stage of treatment and the patient's compliance.
How do I care for my teeth after my braces are removed?
Congratulations on your amazing new smile!
However, you must understand that removing your braces is not the end. Your teeth enjoy moving and will continue to do so throughout your life.
The tongue and cheek muscles move and put pressure on our teeth, which might cause them to move. If you want your teeth to stay in good condition, you must wear your retainers for a few years.
Many orthodontists recommend wearing your retainers full-time for the first six months after you get your braces removed.
After that, you can continue to wear it at night. It is also critical to have regular assessments with your orthodontist/dentist to ensure your retainer is in good shape and tight.
He/she can also examine the condition and alignment of your teeth and make any required changes and corrections. Retreatment may be required if this is postponed for an extended period of time. I typically see my patients every six months to a year after braces therapy.
This is so I can advise them on their retainer strategy.
If you are concerned about retainer discipline, you should speak with your dentist/orthodontist about the possibility of using a fixed retainer.
Conclusion
A proper treatment plan will ensure that the desired outcome of orthodontic treatment is achieved. It is also critical for the treatment's success that a dental professional closely monitor the progression of the braces' treatment throughout.
Monitoring ensures that any issues during therapy are treated at the appropriate time. Failure to do so may result in irreversible damage to the tooth structure, which can be costly to rectify.
Brace treatment is a fantastic adventure that may bring out the best in you while also having a significant impact on your emotional well-being.
Because orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment (usually two years), pick a dentist/orthodontist you trust and feel comfortable with. Make sure they understand your worries and have the ability to offer you the gorgeous smile you want.
However, this procedure can correct a malocclusion, which is a misalignment of the top and lower sets of teeth while the mouth is closed.
If you want to learn more about braces, whether you are about to visit a dentist in Singapore for braces or Invisalign, or you are a parent planning it for your child, look no further!
In this article, I'll explain all you need to know about braces treatment in Singapore.
What are braces?
Orthodontics is a discipline of dentistry that focuses on treating individuals with crooked teeth.
This is accomplished by employing a combination of braces and appliances to align teeth and correct bite problems. These treatments help to guarantee that your teeth fit together properly, giving you a beautiful smile.
Braces operate by exerting pressure to your teeth over time. This pressure gradually directs your teeth in the desired direction. When pressure is applied to your teeth, the bone that supports them changes shape as well. Braces can be either fixed or detachable.
Clear aligners, such as those produced by Invisalign, are an example of detachable braces.
Are braces safe?
Most people find that the procedure for putting on braces is relatively safe. However, there are some minor hazards you should be aware of.
Patients with severe nickel allergies may wish to avoid standard metal braces. Nickel is commonly found in the materials used for their brackets and cables. If you are always uncomfortable when wearing non-precious jewelry, you should get tested for nickel allergy.
Fortunately, you may now choose from a variety of alternatives. Patients should speak with their orthodontist/dentist about these concerns.
Other common problems you may encounter include:
An increased risk of ulcers. This is usually caused to inflammation from the braces.
Periodontal disease and deterioration. This happens when a person wears braces yet has poor dental hygiene.
Fixed appliances, such as traditional braces, are more likely to experience these issues than detachable appliances.
At what age is it best to receive braces in Singapore?
Unfortunately, there is no universally applicable answer to this topic.
Generally, most individuals begin active treatment between the ages of 12 and 14. This is roughly the time when all of the baby teeth fall out and are replaced with a new set of adult teeth.
However, some individuals can begin wearing braces as early as the age of seven. This may be necessary in some patients due to a difference in jaw growth or incorrect alignment of coming teeth.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child have a proper check-up with an orthodontist by the age of seven. This is significant because issues such as incorrect jaw growth or erupting teeth can be corrected. These conditions may be easier to treat if detected early enough to prevent larger issues.
Early treatment may afford your orthodontist the opportunity to:
Guide jaw growth
Reduces the danger of harm from projecting top front teeth
Correct bad behaviors like thumb-sucking
Improve look
Guide the eruption of permanent teeth to a better place
If you notice any of the following issues in your child, they may need to see an orthodontist:
Crowding, misplaced, or blocked teeth
Early loss of teeth
Retained baby teeth after becoming 13 years old
Having difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing and snoring
Finger sucking and other oral practices
Difficulty in generating specific sounds
A jaw that is abnormally long or short, tilted to one side, moves when biting, or makes noise
Protruding upper or lower teeth
Biting on the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
Gaps between teeth
Teeth that meet improperly or not at all
Is tooth extraction necessary for braces?
Space is required to straighten crowded teeth and place them in the optimal position for facial harmony. Space can be produced using:
Expansion of dental arch
Proclination of teeth
Interproximal decrease of tooth contacts
Distalization of teeth
Tooth extraction
Fortunately, with early intervention and advances in brace technology, extractions are significantly less common than they used to be. However, for the best orthodontic results, extraction is occasionally necessary. This is especially true when orthodontic movement requires a significant amount of room.
It is essential to speak with your dentist/orthodontist about any concerns you may have and to learn about your available treatment choices.
Who can provide brace treatment in Singapore?
Orthodontics, also known as braces, is a discipline of dentistry that treats individuals who have crooked teeth.
This sort of dentistry necessitates more sophisticated dental education. These abilities are not covered in the most basic dentistry bachelor's degree programs.
According to the Singapore Dental Council's standards, any registered dentist can administer braces procedure, although it's recommended that you go with an orthodontist. Patients can seek treatment from either a conventional dentist or an orthodontist. However, each dentist's level of experience and knowledge in orthodontics vary.
General dentists can expand their orthodontic knowledge by taking part-time courses and attending conferences. The amount of practical experience differs among general dentists. Some general dentists provide excellent orthodontic work. Others may have limited practical experience treating malocclusions.
Orthodontists are Ministry of Health-certified dental professionals with proven experience in the treatment of misaligned teeth using braces, as well as the management and adjustment of various aspects of face and jaw growth.
An orthodontist first completes three years of full-time specialized training in a recognized orthodontic residency school (Master's degree).
There, they learn how to control tooth movement and steer facial development. After gaining at least five years of clinical experience in orthodontics, individuals can get recognized by the Singapore Dental Council by passing an exit test administered by the Dental Specialist Accreditation Board.
They apply their knowledge and abilities to help you achieve the best potential results by identifying and preparing the best treatment alternatives for you.
If you want to learn more about your dentist/orthodontist's qualifications, visit the Singapore Dental Council website. The Association of Orthodontists (Singapore) website also contains a list of orthodontists/dentists who have formal approved orthodontic training.
How long will I have to wear my braces?
The duration of treatment relies on two factors:
Case complexity
Age of the patient
Braces treatment typically takes between 2-3 years to complete. Cases involving extraction or a combination of jaw surgery will take longer to accomplish. Adult patients may also expect a longer treatment time than young children.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of braces?
Metal Braces
Metal braces are produced from medical-grade stainless steel.
The advantages:
Most affordable braces
They work 24/7
Disadvantages:
Visible metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces can be produced from:
Ceramic
Sapphire
Composite material
The advantages:
Brackets are tooth-coloured or clear, which lowers the visibility of braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Visible wires and rubber bands
Wires can cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
Require special dental tools to clean the teeth
Self-Ligating Braces
Metal and ceramic variants are available. Braces feature a self-locking system.
The advantages:
Self-locking systems reduce the need for rubber ties on individual brackets
The force used on the teeth is gentler than regular braces
They work 24/7
Negative aspects:
Wires are visible
The wires might cause discomfort and sores on the inner cheeks or lips
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Rubber ties get soiled with colored food and drinks like curry and coffee
Lingual braces
These are fixed braces. They are, however, linked to the teeth's inner surface, which faces the tongue. They're constructed of stainless steel or gold.
The advantages:
They work 24/7
Invisible from the outside
Negative aspects:
The most expensive form of braces
Can hinder speaking and irritate the tongue
Not often utilized and may not be done by all dentists or orthodontists
Certain meals should be avoided to prevent breaking
They need special dental tools to clean their teeth
Invisible braces
One well-known example is Invisalign's clear aligners. They're made of thermoplastic material.
The advantages:
Clear or almost invisible
Removeable (for cleaning and during eating)
Simple to clean
No food restrictions
Most comfy to wear
Causes the least discomfort to the gums and cheeks
Less disturbance to daily routines
Fewer reviews and emergency visits
Negative aspects:
More pricey than regular braces
Requires patient discipline. Patients are required to wear aligners for a specific amount of time. The optimal wear time is 22 hours per day
What Is the Average Cost of Braces in Singapore?
The cost of braces varies greatly from clinic to clinic. It is highly dependent on a few things, including:
The extent of treatment you require
Complex instances including extraction or jaw surgery can require a longer treatment period and, hence, are more expensive
Types of orthodontic materials used
The level of experience of the dentist or orthodontist
Most clinics offer installment arrangements. They could be related to credit card firms or in-house installment plans. Clinics may have varying instalment programs and down payment terms; please consult with your preferred clinic about such arrangements.
The following are the average costs for each type of braces:
Invisalign: $5500 to $10000
Metal braces: $3500 to $7000
Ceramic braces: $4200 to $8000
Self-ligating braces: $4500 to $8000
Lingual Braces: $7000 to $15000
Can I use Medisave for braces?
Unfortunately, we cannot use Medisave for braces treatment. However, Medisave may partially pay adjunct procedures associated with your braces treatment. These procedures include:
Exposure or extraction of impacted teeth
Gold chain bonding and jaw surgery procedures
Most dentists and orthodontists will provide installment plans to make braces treatment more affordable. Consult with your dentist/orthodontist about your financing alternatives.
What foods can I consume while wearing braces?
Your teeth will most likely feel sore during the first week after having your braces fixed or after your braces adjustment appointment.
As a result, you may not be in the ideal mood to chew your meal.
But don't worry, you won't go hungry throughout this period. You should eat items that will boost your mood and brighten your day. Anything soft and cool is the greatest option for hurting teeth.
Here are some cold and soft meal options for hurting teeth:
Ice cream
Jelly
Pudding
Yoghurt
Soft fruits (such as oranges and ripe mangoes)
Smoothies
Milkshakes
Bean curd
Cakes (mousse-based, chiffon, sponge)
If you like something warm, consider the following options:
Macaroni with cheese
Mashed potatoes
Porridge
Tofu
Fish
Poached or soft-boiled eggs
Soup
Patients using removable braces, such as Invisalign, have no food limitations, whereas patients with fixed braces must exercise caution when choosing what to consume.
Braces are applied to the teeth using dental adhesive. Eating hard foods can cause the braces brackets to loosen from the teeth. Some examples of hard foods are:
Nuts
Hard candies
Pretzels
Nachos
Popcorn
Ice
You might also want to avoid sticky and sweet foods. They may attach to your teeth or braces, increasing your risk of tooth decay. Maintaining proper oral hygiene can also help prevent tooth decay.
How can I maintain good dental hygiene while wearing braces?
To maintain appropriate oral hygiene while wearing braces, clean your teeth for at least two times each day. Do not rush through your dental cleaning. It requires time and effort to reach all places, even behind the wires, to eliminate dental plaque and food particles.
Flossing between your teeth is an essential aspect of your dental hygiene regimen. It should be done at least once daily. To help floss your teeth, use super-floss or a floss threader. If your hands aren't as nimble, you might want to consider purchasing a water floss machine.
Brush over your teeth's biting surfaces, as well as your wires and braces. Next, angulate your brush bristles towards your nose for your lower teeth and downwards towards your chin for your top teeth to ensure that food is removed from below the bracket hooks.
Pay close attention to the places in the rear of your mouth where your bands are.
Make sure no food is trapped there. Finally, clean the inner surface of your teeth by holding your toothbrush vertically at the front teeth and horizontally angulated towards your gum with a little jiggling motion.
Make sure the bristles of your toothbrush are between each braces bracket and underneath your wires. An orthodontic brush with a V-shape design allows you to more easily brush particular areas.
If you believe that using an electric toothbrush will help you brush more effectively, feel free to do so. You may also want to use an end tuft brush to get to those hard-to-reach corners, especially during the early stages of treatment when your teeth are still crooked. You might also wish to use an interdental brush to clean underneath the brackets.
After you've finished brushing your teeth, look in the mirror. Check to check if you have removed all of the plaque and food particles.
How frequently will I need adjustments?
Adjustments for fixed or lingual braces are typically performed every 4-8 weeks.
This allows for the reactivation of braces and increased movement. Readjustment visits normally last 15 to 30 minutes. The adjustment interval is also determined by the stage of treatment and the preferences of your dentist or orthodontist. Your dentist/orthodontist may visit you less frequently in the early phases of therapy and more frequently near the conclusion of treatment.
Invisalign treatments may require periodic checkups every 6-12 weeks. The frequency of these reviews is also determined by the stage of treatment and the patient's compliance.
How do I care for my teeth after my braces are removed?
Congratulations on your amazing new smile!
However, you must understand that removing your braces is not the end. Your teeth enjoy moving and will continue to do so throughout your life.
The tongue and cheek muscles move and put pressure on our teeth, which might cause them to move. If you want your teeth to stay in good condition, you must wear your retainers for a few years.
Many orthodontists recommend wearing your retainers full-time for the first six months after you get your braces removed.
After that, you can continue to wear it at night. It is also critical to have regular assessments with your orthodontist/dentist to ensure your retainer is in good shape and tight.
He/she can also examine the condition and alignment of your teeth and make any required changes and corrections. Retreatment may be required if this is postponed for an extended period of time. I typically see my patients every six months to a year after braces therapy.
This is so I can advise them on their retainer strategy.
If you are concerned about retainer discipline, you should speak with your dentist/orthodontist about the possibility of using a fixed retainer.
Conclusion
A proper treatment plan will ensure that the desired outcome of orthodontic treatment is achieved. It is also critical for the treatment's success that a dental professional closely monitor the progression of the braces' treatment throughout.
Monitoring ensures that any issues during therapy are treated at the appropriate time. Failure to do so may result in irreversible damage to the tooth structure, which can be costly to rectify.
Brace treatment is a fantastic adventure that may bring out the best in you while also having a significant impact on your emotional well-being.
Because orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment (usually two years), pick a dentist/orthodontist you trust and feel comfortable with. Make sure they understand your worries and have the ability to offer you the gorgeous smile you want.
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Discover the essence of simplicity and minimalism as we guide you towards a harmonious urban lifestyle. Uncover practical tips, minimalist inspirations, and mindful practices for cultivating simplicity in every aspect of modern living.
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