Menu

ORTHODONTICS

Kid with braces

WHAT IS orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry where teeth are moved to correct teeth misalignments. In Singapore, we have seen
 an increased uptake of orthodontics, the rise in number attributed to the pursuit of straight teeth and a confident smile. 
Whether you are looking for a dental solution for your child or to correct your own teeth, we have curated a detailed and holistic care plan for patients of all ages

Dr Ivan holding Invisalign

Here at Le by An Dental, our resident orthodontist, Dr Ivan Prabowo, will discuss the best plan to help resolve your concerns. 
This could include a misaligned jaw position, painful clicks at your temporomandibular joint, or a crooked smile. Depending on the baseline condition of your teeth, you may be recommended:

METAL BRACES

Metal braces are the most traditional orthodontic solution with long-term studies of correcting most teeth malalignment issues. Some studies have indicated metal braces to be more efficient in addressing certain types of severe tooth malalignment issues and severe cases of malocclusions. Metal braces are one of the few types of fixed braces, which will be bonded to the teeth by metal brackets and wires and secured in place with elastic ties.
Lady with Metal Braces
Metal braces are renowned for resolving dental and orthodontic issues.
Invisalign is favoured due to its discreet appearance.
Invisalign is favoured due to its discreet appearance.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign has garnered popularity over the last few years for being one of the more aesthetically pleasing dental options. Favoured for its discreet nature, Invisalign is a removable brace, allowing patients to remove them when eating or cleaning. You will be required to wear Invisalign for up to 22 hours daily to address issues such as mild malocclusions, gaps, crooked teeth, and crowding.

How do ORTHODONTIC BRACES work?

Essentially, orthodontic braces exert pressure on the teeth over a  period of time until they achieve “the desired tooth alignment”. During consultation, X-rays will be taken to check if any buried teeth are present, which might hinder tooth movement, and to check for wisdom teeth to see if they block the way of the desired teeth positions. X-rays are also taken to see if the root cause of the malocclusion is due to a skeletal issue. In this case, we may have to discuss surgical options to correct the facial bone, and a Dento-facial-esthetics analysis may be suggested. Subsequently, a personalised treatment plan will be curated, which includes:

  1. Consideration for tooth extraction if necessary.
  2. The best type of orthodontic braces that will address the dental issues presented. 
  3. The expected timeframe where orthodontic treatment is expected to last. 
Your experience will vary depending on the type of braces you are prescribed.
Below is a table highlighting the distinctions in process between metal braces and Invisalign:
Type
Maintenance level 

Invisalign 

Invisalign 
Cleaning and maintaining dental hygiene is more straightforward, as Invisalign can be removed.Patients must be highly committed and disciplined, as Invisalign must be worn for at least 22 hours daily. 

Metal braces

Metal braces
Maintaining dental hygiene can be an issue of concern as metal braces cannot be removed. Poor dental hygiene can result in teeth stains, bad breath, increased risk of tooth decay, and bad oral health. As metal braces are permanently installed on the teeth, progress is consistent and possibly faster if all dental appointments are adhered to.
Dental visits
You will be required to visit us every 2 to 3 months to replace your Invisalign set. 
You will be required to visit us every 4-6 weeks to change archwires. 
Dietary restriction 
There are no dietary restrictions, as you may remove Invisalign when eating. 

Patients may be restricted from eating certain hard foods as they may damage the metal braces

Boy with metal braces

POSSIBLE BENEFITS OF ORTHODONTIC BRACES

  • Improves oral health as better-aligned teeth are easier to clean 
  • Reduces risk of gum disease, plaque buildup, and tooth decay since teeth are easier to clean when they are aligned
  • Improves confidence and self-esteem with a better smile
  • Improves chewing and speech in cases of severe malocclusions 
  • Reduces tooth wear and tear 

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN ORTHODONTIC BRACES TREAT ?

Orthodontic braces efficiently solve various dental and orthodontic issues, such as:

MALOCCLUSION

HEALTHY

UNDERBITE

OVERBITE

OPEN BITE

CROWDING

CROSSBITE

SPACING

PROTRUSION

Abnormal eruption

HEALTHY
UNDERBITE
OVERBITE
OPEN BITE
CROWDING
CROSSBITE
SPACING
PROTRUSION
Abnormal eruption
WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT FROM 
ORTHODONTIC BRACES?

WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT FROM 
ORTHODONTIC BRACES?

The primary changes one may observe post-braces are straightened teeth. This could also result in some changes in facial structure. Patients formerly impeded by their teeth’s misalignment (unclear speech, difficulties chewing, mouth-breathing) may also find these symptoms improved and relieved.

Contrary to popular belief, orthodontic braces are not purely cosmetic. They may also be indicated to improve function and overall health. 

HOW MANY TREATMENT SESSIONS ARE NEEDED FOR ORTHODONTIC BRACES?

Apart from the designated frequency of dental visits when you are on orthodontic braces, you will still be required to come into the clinic even after your teeth are straightened. The post-brace visit includes maintaining your newly aligned teeth with retainers. New studies have shown that retainers must be worn for the rest of your life to keep your newly straightened teeth in position. If you clench and grind when you sleep, certain types of retainers may also double up as your mouth-guards.
HOW MANY TREATMENT SESSIONS ARE NEEDED FOR ORTHODONTIC BRACES?

Frequently asked questions

Typically, patients must wear braces anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. The exact duration will vary on a case-by-case basis. It depends on how severe the malocclusion was in the first place. Additionally, the estimated timeline to wear braces is applicable as long as patients commit to their dentist appointments (to “tighten” wire for metal braces) and change the aligners as prescribed (for Invisalign).
In the initial stages, there will be some changes to your speech. However, as you adjust to your braces over time, you will be able to speak normally.
Braces should not stop you from any musical pursuit. If you are a musician, discuss with your dentist the best ways to adjust to playing instruments with a mouthpiece.
Braces should also not affect any athletic pursuit. If you are participating in high-contact sports such as rugby, protecting yourself with a mouthguard is in your best interest. No special considerations are usually required regarding sports when wearing braces.
Gum disease MUST be treated before orthodontic treatment is commenced. Moving teeth in diseased bone and gums will make your teeth shake even more! The good news is that once your gums have been treated and your teeth are firm, we can most likely start on orthodontic treatment.
Metal braces do have a reputation for being more painful than other forms of orthodontic braces. However, this is usually only during the first week or after changing wires. You will soon be accustomed to the discomfort. Invisalign, too, can cause some pain as the teeth shift to target alignment. In general, braces are painful for patients with sensitive gums. If gum sensitivity is suspected, you will receive the necessary treatment to reduce and address discomfort.

CONTACT US

We look forward to answering any questions you may have in your pursuit of health, beauty, and a peace of mind. Feel free to drop us a message right here.
International Building (Next to Lido)
360 Orchard Road #03-06/07
Singapore 238869

Say hello!

    International Building (Next to Lido)
    360 Orchard Road #03-06/07,
    Singapore 238869
    Mon to Fri: 9am to 5.30pm
    Thu: 10am to 5.30pm
    Sat: 9am to 1pm
    Closed on Sun & PH
    cross linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram