Dental Braces

Dental braces are a part of orthodontic treatment prescribed by a dentist or orthodontist to correct teeth that are crooked, crowded, have spaces or even in a situation where the upper and lower jaw do not bite properly. These conditions may arise out of early or late tooth loss, habits such as thumbsucking, lip-thrusting and mouth-breathing, injury or even genetically inherited.

Left alone, these conditions can lead to further problems such as tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, affected biting/chewing, jaw pain and associated problems and tooth loss.

Fixed metal braces can be prescribed to treat this condition by straightening the teeth, resulting in a better and healthier smile. This treatment involves the dentist or orthodontist placing small brackets on your teeth and linking them up with a wire which will be tightened every visit to shift your teeth position. There might be slight discomfort during the initial placement of the braces but most patients adapt to it in 1-2 weeks.

Treatment time depends on the complexity of the case, and in most cases, they last between 2-3 years. Following the completion of the treatment, there is a requirement to wear removable retainers to hold the teeth in the new straightened position. In some complex cases where extensive treatment is needed, there might be a need for a referral to a Specialist Oral Surgeon for jaw surgery to be done to correct any jaw deformity issues together with braces treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are fixed metal braces and is it very painful to put them on?

Fixed metal braces are one of the most common types of braces where a dentist or orthodontist will place small brackets on your teeth and link them up with a wire which will be tightened every visit to shift your teeth position until the ideal position has been reached.

In the initial 1-2 weeks of treatment, there might be some mouth ulcers, soreness and discomfort arising from the braces but most patients adapt well and get used to the braces very quickly. Thereafter, it is expected for you to experience some soreness for 1-2 days when there is tightening done during the monthly review visits.

How long does treatment take?

It depends on the complexity of the case. For most cases, it will take 2-3 years for completion. In some complex cases where there are significant jaw positioning issues, there is a need for joint management with a Specialist Oral Surgeon to do Orthognathic Surgery so that the jaw can be placed in the right position while the braces work to align the teeth.

Are there any side effects or risks of braces treatment?

As with any medical and dental treatment, braces treatment do have their limitations and risks.

  • Damage to the nerve of teeth
    Existing damage to the tooth through previous large fillings or trauma can be aggravated through orthodontic tooth movement which can cause damage to the nerve of the tooth. Some of these teeth might start to appear grey or dark. This can be remedied by root canal treatment where necessary.
  • Relapse
    Relapse occurs when teeth shift and move back to the original position. Using the retainers as prescribed can help to prevent this
  • White spots on teeth after removal of braces
    Braces makes it harder to clean your teeth well, often trapping food debris and allowing plaque to accumulate. Whites spots may form over the long term as an early sign of tooth decay. These spots are mostly visible only upon the removal of braces. In more serious cases, these spots might be brown or there might be active cavities. It is therefore imperative to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing well and avoid sticky food where possible. Despite best efforts, there might still be white spots and we will assess the condition before coming up with a treatment plan to ensure you still have a beautiful smile.
  • Shortening of roots
    The roots of the teeth may become shorter during braces treatment in some patients and this usually has no other consequences and side effects. In some cases, severe shortening might occur where the tooth may be affected and we would recommend for treatment to stop
  • Continual growth and development
    We grow throughout life and in some cases, there might be abnormal growth or development of either jaw or shifting of the bite or teeth. These occurrences are rare and are often out of the control of the attending dentist or orthodontist. This might affect the final result and there might be a need for co-management with a Specialist Oral Surgeon for surgical correction.

Treatment Charges

Student/NSF Braces Treatment Plan

$3,600*

Fee includes Consultation, X-rays, Mould of teeth and Fixed Metal Braces Treatment.

Retainers, Teeth Extraction and GST are not included in this package price. If you would like to find out more about the procedure or book an appointment, please click the button on the right.

Fixed Metal Braces Treatment

$4,200 onwards*

Fee includes Consultation, X-rays, Mould of teeth and Fixed Metal Braces Treatment.

Retainers, Teeth Extraction and GST are not included in this package price. If you would like to find out more about the procedure or book an appointment, please click the button on the right.