Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: Crowded teeth can make your smile appear disorganized or "messy."

Oral health risks: Misaligned teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

How braces help:

Braces can align your teeth, often without the need for extractions. In some cases, reshaping teeth by filing the sides to create space is an option. For borderline cases, we often start with aligning the teeth and reassess the need for extractions later.

2. Spaces Between Teeth

Spaces occur when teeth are not in contact with each other. Common causes include:

• Mismatched tooth and jaw sizes (teeth too small for the jaw or the jaw too large for the teeth)
• Missing teeth
• Habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• Soft tissue causes, such as a high frenal attachment that “wedges” itself between teeth

Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: Gaps between teeth can be perceived as unattractive and may indicate gum disease, giving the impression of poor oral hygiene.

Oral health impacts: Gaps can trap food, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Functional issues: Gaps can cause speech problems, like a lisp, due to air escaping when pronouncing certain sounds.

How braces help:

Braces can close the gaps between teeth, or if missing teeth require replacement, they can help adjust the space for future restorations, such as implants or bridges.

3. Excessive Overjet

Excessive overjet occurs when the upper front teeth protrude too far over the lower teeth. This condition is often referred to as "buck teeth," although it's commonly confused with an overbite, which refers to vertical overlap rather than horizontal protrusion.

Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: Protruding teeth may be stereotyped as unintelligent or comical.

Safety risks: Protruding teeth are more susceptible to fractures in the event of a fall, leading to potential complications like root canal treatment or extractions if the teeth can't be saved.

How braces help:

To reduce the overjet, extractions are often performed to create space, typically removing premolars. The back teeth act as anchors to bring the front teeth inward. In some cases, excessive overjet can be corrected without extractions.

4. Reverse Overjet

A reverse overjet occurs when the lower front teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth, often referred to as an underbite. This misalignment can sometimes result from posturing the lower jaw forward to compensate.

Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: The smile looks "unnatural" because the upper teeth are hidden behind the lower teeth. In some cases, the lower jaw may appear larger, contributing to a "moon-shaped" face.

Oral health risks: The teeth may experience abnormal wear, particularly on the back teeth or the edges of the front teeth.

Functional issues: A reverse overjet can contribute to a lisp when pronouncing certain sounds.

How braces help:

Braces can correct this issue by either bringing the upper teeth forward, the lower teeth inward, or a combination of both. Sometimes, extractions are needed. For more severe cases, jaw surgery may be necessary, especially if you want to improve your facial profile or correct skeletal issues.

5. Deep Bite

A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. In severe cases, the upper teeth may completely cover the lower teeth, making the lower teeth invisible when smiling.

Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: A deep bite can give a "squashed" smile appearance and may contribute to a shorter lower face height, creating a more inward-positioned lower jaw.

Oral health risks: Excessive overlap may lead to increased wear of your teeth.

How braces help:

Braces can "open" the bite by reducing the vertical overlap between the upper and lower teeth. In some cases, jaw surgery may be needed to address other skeletal discrepancies.

6. Open Bite

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth don’t meet. It can be caused by habits like thumb sucking or functional issues, such as breathing problems. People with open bites often have longer faces and narrower jaws.

Problems it can cause:

Aesthetic concerns: An open bite can make you appear as though you’re always opening your mouth, even while smiling. In severe cases, it can be perceived as unaesthetic.

Oral health risks: Only the back teeth make contact, leading to abnormal wear.

Functional issues: An open bite can affect speech, causing a lisp, and may hinder your ability to properly bite and chew food.

How braces help:

Braces can help close the open bite by tilting the front teeth inward. In more severe cases, jaw surgery may be required, along with extractions, to achieve a proper bite and improve functionality.

When Should You Get Braces?

While there’s no specific age to get braces, there are ideal times for treatment based on your age and dental needs. The right time to get braces will depend on your age, the severity of your dental issues, and your overall dental health.

For Children and Teenagers:

The best time for braces is usually when a child’s permanent teeth have come in, typically between the ages of 10 and 14. At this age, the mouth and teeth are still developing, and treatment can be more effective and require less time than if started later.

For Adults:

It’s never too late to get braces. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment just as much as children or teenagers. In fact, more and more adults are opting for braces to improve their smile and address bite or alignment problems. Adults also have more options for discreet braces, such as ceramic braces or clear aligners.

Signs You Might Need Braces:

You might need braces if:

• You have difficulty chewing or biting down.
• Your teeth overlap or are too crowded.
• Your bite is misaligned (overbite, underbite, crossbite).
• Your teeth are spaced too far apart.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to consult an orthodontist for a proper evaluation.

Types of Braces

There are several types of braces available, each with its own advantages. The best type for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. 

1. Conventional Metal Braces

The most common and affordable option, metal braces in Singapore, are highly effective at straightening teeth. 

2. Conventional Ceramic Braces

Functioning similarly to metal braces, ceramic braces are less noticeable.

3. Self-Ligating Metal Braces

These resemble traditional metal braces but feature a built-in clip that holds the wire in place, reducing tightness and speeding up treatment. 

4. Self-Ligating Ceramic Braces

It looks similar to conventional ceramic braces but features a built-in clip that reduces tightness and speeds up treatment.

5. Champagne Braces

Made from stainless steel, these braces have a gold-toned coating for a more stylish appearance. 

6. Plastic Braces

These braces are made from a combination of molded plastic and filler materials.

7. Clear Aligners

A series of clear, removable trays designed to move teeth into place gradually. Though often called "invisible dental braces," clear aligners are not technically braces.

Process of Getting Braces

Our braces treatment process in Singapore typically involves the following steps:

Step 1. Initial Consultation
Your first visit is crucial as it provides an opportunity for our orthodontist to understand your concerns and discuss your treatment plan. During this time, we will also review the cost of your treatment. If you decide to proceed with braces, we will guide you through the process of taking your dental records.

Step 2. Dental Records
Typically, dental records include X-rays, impressions (moulds), and photographs. If time allows, we can complete your records on the same day as your consultation.

Step 3. Braces Placement
Once you're ready, an appointment will be scheduled to place your braces. If tooth extractions are necessary, you should wait at least 2-3 days before starting the braces process. Our clinic does not perform extractions, as we specialize in braces. However, we will provide a letter specifying which teeth need to be removed, and you can visit any dentist for the extractions.

Step 4. Monthly Follow Ups
Following the placement of your braces, we will see you every 4-6 weeks for adjustments. Each visit typically takes 5 to 15 minutes. Most cases require between 14 to 24 adjustments over the course of treatment.

Step 5. Braces Removal
Once you’re satisfied with the results, your braces will be removed, and post-treatment records will be taken. This includes creating a would for your retainer.

Step 6. Retainer Fitting
Your custom-made retainers will be fitted about one week after your braces are removed. It's essential to wear them consistently to prevent any change in tooth alignment.

Braces Care Process: What to Expect?

Taking care of your braces is crucial to ensuring that your treatment progresses smoothly. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to caring for your braces:

1. Initial Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces, especially in the first few days. This is temporary and will subside as you get used to the braces.
2. Regular Adjustments: You’ll need to visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments, which help ensure that your teeth are moving correctly.
3. Oral Hygiene: Keeping your braces clean is essential for preventing plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. You’ll need to brush and floss regularly and use special tools designed for braces care.
4. Dietary Changes: You may need to avoid certain foods that can damage your braces, such as sticky candies and hard foods.
5. Discomfort During Adjustments: After each adjustment, you might experience some soreness or tightness, but this is completely normal and temporary.

Looking for an Orthodontic Specialist?

When it comes to braces, it’s important to choose the best orthodontist in Singapore. Dr. Wee Teng Yau, the founder of BRACESAURUS, is an experienced orthodontist who has helped countless patients achieve their dream smiles.

Meet Our Orthodontists: Dr. Wee Teng Yau

Dr. Wee Teng Yau is a highly trained orthodontist with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from the National University of Singapore. He furthered his training in orthodontics and obtained his Master's in Orthodontics degree from the National University of Singapore. Dr. Wee is accredited by the Dental Specialists Accreditation Board (DSAB) and is a member of the Association of Orthodontists in Singapore.

Dr. Wee's expertise and dedication to patient care have earned him a reputation as one of Singapore’s top orthodontic specialists. With almost 20 years of experience in orthodontics, he is passionate about providing the best care for his patients. At BRACESAURUS, you can rest assured that you're in the hands of experienced professionals who genuinely care about your smile.

Ready to Transform Your Smile with BRACESAURUS?

With a wide range of braces options available, there's something for everyone—whether you're looking for discreet ceramic braces, durable metal braces, or invisible dental braces. At BRACESAURUS, we are committed to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted with personalized care and the latest orthodontic technology.

If you're ready to take the next step in your orthodontic journey, schedule a consultation with us today and discover how we can help you achieve a more beautiful and healthier smile.