No one will deny the importance of a winning smile. It makes a pleasing appearance, promotes self-esteem, and is valuable to social and career success. Creating a beautiful smile is what orthodontics is all about. Orthodontics is important not only to a great smile and improved self confidence, but to better dental health. Teeth in correct alignment are easier to clean, making them more resistant to decay and less susceptible to gum disease. Braces fit easily into today’s active lifestyles. They’re comfortable, easy to keep clean, and less visible than in the past. New techniques and materials can extend the period between appointments, saving time and expense.
Common problems
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Crowding: Teeth may be aligned poorly because the dental arch is small and/or the teeth are large. |
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Overjet or protruding upper teeth: Upper front teeth that protrude beyond normal contact with the lower front teeth are prone to injury, often indicate a poor bite of the back teeth (molars), and may indicate an unevenness in jaw growth. |
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Deep overbite: A deep overbite or deep bite occurs when the lower incisor (front) teeth bite too close or into the gum tissue behind the upper teeth. |
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Open bite: An open bite results when the upper and lower incisor teeth do not touch when biting down. This open space between the upper and lower front teeth causes all the chewing pressure to be placed on the back teeth. |
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Spacing: If teeth are missing or small, or the dental arch is very wide, space between the teeth can occur. The most common complaint from those with excessive space is poor appearance. |
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Crossbite: The most common type of a crossbite is when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (toward the tongue). |
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Underbite or lower jaw protrusion: About 3 to 5 percent of the population has a lower jaw that is to some degree longer than the upper jaw. This can cause the lower front teeth to protrude ahead of the upper front teeth creating a crossbite. Careful monitoring of jaw growth and tooth development is indicated for these patients. |
Type of Braces
Removable appliance
There are plastic braces which are used to correct problems like crossbites, protruding teeth, narrow arches, deepbites and single tooth problems. Treatment is usually shorter than for fixed braces and usually last 3 to 12 months.
A removable arch expander
Growth or functional appliances
These are removable braces used to guide jaw growth during a child’s growth spurt.
A “Twin Block” functional appliance
Fixed appliances
These are braces which are fixed onto the tooth surface and are able to correct complex malocclusions. They can be made of different materials (metal, ceramic, plastic or a combination) and can be placed on the outer (labial) surface or the inner (lingual) surface of teeth.
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Metal bracesSelf-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces are “low friction” bracket systems and hence are less painful and move teeth faster than conventional braces. It can reduce the need for extractions and also the number of visits and overall treatment time. Popular brands include Damon, Smartclip and Inovation which are all available at our clinic.
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Metal Self-ligating braces |
Ceramic Self-ligating braces |
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Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are ideal for those who want the effects of braces, but are apprehensive about showing a mouthful of orthodontic work to the world. Lingual braces sit on the back of your teeth—making them completely invisible from the front. Lingual braces are an ideal option for adult orthodontic patients. Because the bottom teeth are generally less visible anyway, a popular combination is to have lingual braces on the top teeth and clear braces on the bottom.
Invisalign
Invisalign is an invisible way to straighten teeth without wires and brackets. The Invisalign system uses a series of custom made clear aligners to more teeth gradually over time. Each aligner is individually manufactured with exact calculations to gradually shift teeth into place. Your Invisalign treatment will consist of a series of aligners that is switched every two weeks.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be removed during brushing, eating and drinking. Brushing will no longer be a problem. Without wires or brackets the custom made aligners are comfortable and will not irritate your cheeks, gums or tongue.
The aligners are made with a clear plastic and are virtually invisible so no one will know you are straightening your teeth unless you tell them.
Written by:
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Dr Arthur C Y Lim | OrthodontistBDS | MDS(Orthodontics) | MOrthRCS(Edinburgh) | FAMS(Orthodontics) Have a question or comment for Dr Arthur Lim? Ask here |
Hi Dr Arthur, how much faster is the self-ligating braces and is it really less painful when compared with normal braces?
Dear Charles
Thank you for your enquiry.
Depending on the patient’s age, self ligating brackets can reduce treatment time by up to 6 months. And yes, it is less painful than conventional braces.
hi,
how much is a ceramic brace for top and bottom and a retainer for top teeth to make teeth less narrow?
Can a crossbite be fixed with lingual braces? I don’t believe mine is very severe.
How long does Invisalign need to stay on?
Dear Merci
The cost of ceramic braces generally costs $1000 more than the basic package for (metal) braces which can range from $4000 to $7500 and more.
A retainer is usually used after active treatment of braces to maintain the traightened position of the teeth. A set of retainers usually costs $600.
Dear April
A crossbite can be corrected with lingual braces but depending on the type of crossbite and severity, there may be a need for attachments on the front of the tooth in crossbite and for elastic wear.
Dear Anon
The duration of treatment with Invisalign depends on the number of aligners required. Usually between 10 to 30 sets are need. Each set is worn for 2 weeks so total treatment is usually about a year.
Hi Dr Lim.
I think I have a class 2 overbite. Is there anything I can wear to correct and alig my jaw. Im working full time and cannot take any downtime.
Is there any Mandibular Advancement Appliances (MMA)that I can wear to help align my jaw.
Im not sure if because of the class 2 overbite I grind my teeth alot even snoring.
What are the treatment for class 2 overbite if any ?
Thanks
Alex
Hi Dr. Lim,
My teeth was previously ‘fixed’ by braces and the result was very satisfying but after a few months, my upper wisdon tooth emerged which prevented me from wearing the retainers. now a few years down the road, my upper teeth have begun to space out and its getting quite obvious. what are the ways that i can realign my upper teeth and what are the expenses involved?
thank u in advance.
nuha
Dear Alex
A class II bite usually means the upper teeth are protruding from the lower front teeth which may present with a deep bite. The most common cause is a smaller lower jaw.
For growing patients there may be an option of functional or growth appliance treatment to encourage full expression of growth of the lower jaw.
Mandibular Advancement Appliances can help to temporarily alleviate snoring problems during sleep but do not correct the jaw discrepancy permanently.
For non-growing patients the only way to correct a smaller lower jaw is usually with braces and jaw surgery.
Dear Nuha
Retention (wearing of retainers) is an integral part of braces treatment as it maintains the straightened position of teeth which are prone to relapse (going back to pre-treatment position).
As your teeh have spaced out it sounds like re-treatment will be necessary.
Depending on the extent of the relapse, re-treatment can be done with either a removable or fixed braces.
You will need to see an orthodontist to assess your condition before a treatment plan and a cost estimate can be made.
Hi Dr. Lim,
My gum is big but teeth are small (a lot of gaps), overbite problem and there is an extra tooth in the middle of front tooth. In this case, am i suitable for Invisalign?
Thanks!
Hi Doc
what is the price for lingual braces and do i need regular visits once i will be done wid the braces?
If yes please tell me the price of single visit for tightning of braces saperately as well.
Hi Mr Lim,
I would like to staighten my teeth. I am actually looking into Invisalign and Veener. Which is better? Actually onli my 4 tooth in front is not straight and protruding. Is the whole procedure expensive and is there any way to pay by installement as i could not afford it if its too expensive. Tks
Dear Dr Lim
I’m experiencing receding gum due to ageing since last sep. My teeth esp. the lower front 4 teeth are slowly missing out on a straight alignment.
Please advise a solution and if I were to visit Dental Polyclinics how much it’ll cost. And is it gonna be a long term treatment.
Many thanks
Hi Dr Lim
My right canine tooth seems to be decaying, but i’m not really sure. I planned to remove it and get damon braces.
Is my condition suitable for damon braces?
And what is the cost for damon braces?
Lots of thanks.
Hi Dr Lim,
I am considering braces for the 2nd time as my teeth have moved. The last time I wore braces was 8 years ago. Currently, my 2 front teeth protude again and one of my lower teeth moved back slightly. I think it is due to my wisdom teeth. As it came out and pushes my teeth, causing it to be overcrowded?
I can’t decide between Invisalign or those removable ones. Since it is the 2nd time I’m putting on braces, I hope the time taken would be shorter and slightly cheaper. Any advices or roughly how much is the cost?
I’m also unsure about which clinics in Sg to go to for consultation.
Thanks.
Dear Siye
Invisalign is useful for many types of malocclusion including crowding or crooked teeth, small spaces and deep overbite. For problems which involve excessive spaces or gaps it would be better treated in combination with conventional braces ie starting with conventionak braces before finishing with Invisalign.
It is however difficult to advise you accurately on whether your condition is suitable for Invisalign treatment without seeing you.
Do contact us at enquiry@bracesatwork.com or 64748468 for a consultation or go to enquiry@bracesatwork.com or 64748468 for a consultation or go to http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information.
Dear Charu
The cost of Lingual braces treatment ranges from $8000 to $15000 depending on the complexity and number of visits required.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost and duration of treatment, you will need to see an orthodontist for a consultation.
You can contact us at 64748468 or enquiry@bracesatwork.com for an appointment or go to enquiry@bracesatwork.com for an appointment or go to http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information.
Dear Amanda
The advantages of braces treatment over veneers to straighten teeth is that you get a natural result without having to cut good tooth structure which is needed for veneers. In addition, veneers will also hav to be replaced from time to time.
Invisaign treatment costs slightly more than conventional treatment but payment is available in flexible installments.
You can contact us at 64748468 or enquiry@bracesatwork.com for a consultation appointment.
Dear Yenny
If you are thinking of extracting your canine tooth, please do see an orthodontist for an opinion before proceeding. Canines are strong functional teeth and distinctive teeth which are part of your smile.
Damon braces are low friction braces which can reduce treatment time and are less painful than normal braces. They are suitable most if not all patients.
There is generally an add-on charge of about $1000 to te basic braces package for Damon braces due to higher material costs.
You can contact us at 64748468 or enquiry@bracesatwork.com for an appointment.
Dear Dr Lim,
I still have my metal braces on but was not able to consult any orthodontist since coming here in Singapore. Is it possible for an orthodontist to continue my braces eventhough he is not the first one to initially do the braces? I really want to have a consultation appointment with an orthodontist.
Also, how much is the cost of treatment? Is there a mode of payment?
Thanks….
Dear Dr Lim,
I’m keen to consult a orthodontist but i may require a jaw reconstruction due to a misalign and protruding lower jaw. Do i arrange to see a orthodontist and as well as a surgeon myself? Any advise would be great.
Hi Dr. Lim,
Is it possible to use Invisalign to straighten upper front teeths that are tilted inwards? How much is the cost treatment to correct just the upper jaw teeth?
Doc,
I have a small buck tooth and overbite problem. What if I did Short Term Braces? Will it be just as effective as the Lingual Braces? And I play a flute. Will braces affect the way the air come out or the way I blow?because I have to have a steady blow.
Please reply soon. Thank you
Hi Doc,
Im in my early 20’s and have a problem of overcrowding. only for the upper set of my teeth (but only 4 tooth infront). may i know what are the best method for that and how much? and also how long is the duration and all? please advice. thanks.
Hi,
i am 20yrs old. my baby tooth on the upper jaw has yet to drop, causing my adult tooth to grow right behind it. in tis case, wld u recommend braces like what my dentist did, just for a tooth when generally my teeth is rather straight. thanks.
Is there any surgery for upper protrude upper jaw? How much it cost? What is the procedure? How long is the recovery period?
I am looking forward for your reply.
Thank you very much indeed!
Dear Helen
Surgery will be required if the upper jaw is protruding and it is not possible to correct the protruding teeth with braces treatment alone or if you want to correct the jaw problem.
For treatment involving braces and jaw surgery, treatment generally takes about 2 to 2.5 years. Treatment starts with braces for about 1 to 1.5 years to prepare for the jaw surgery. The surgical process may take about 3 to 6 hours or more depending on whether one or two jaws are involved and is done under general aneasthesia. There will be a 1 to 3 night stay in the hospital.
Recovery generally takes about 3 to 4 weeks although full resolution of swelling can take up to 2 to 3 months.
If you have more questions about the surgery and costs, please email Dr Juliet Tay who is a specialist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at http://www.iosc.com.sg
After the surgical procedure, braces treatment will take another 9 months to 1 year to neaten up the bite.
For more information about braces do visit http://www.braceatwork.com
Dear Lynn
It is difficult to comment specifically without seeing your teeth as a final decision will be based on which tooth it is condition and position of the adult and baby tooth etc.
However, based on what you wrote, it may be a good idea to proceed with braces to bring the adult teeth into the arch for the following treatment:
1) The baby tooth will not last forever and may drop off in time to come.
2) As you are still young, doing braces to brng the adult tooth into the arch now would be faster, more comfortable than if it is done say in ten years time.
Do visit http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information on braces or call 64748468 for a consultation.
Hi Dr Lim,
I suspect that i have a class I bimaxillary protrusion and it’s affecting me. Is it common? How do i get this treated? I am 20 yrs old and is it too late for treatment. I really want to seek your opinion on this.
Thank you.
Hi Dr. Lim,
What is the cost for invisalign? I undestand is depends on individual, but normally how much will you charge for one set?
Thank you in advance.
Hi Dr Lim,
DO we have to do the normal braces before we can do invisalign?
Thanks
Dear lyong
The cost of Invisalign ranges from $7500 to $8500. This includes the cost of all pre- and post- treatment records, all materials and aligners, all review visits, as well as retainer costs.
We are having an Invisalign forum Saturday 23 May 2009 from 2pm at Camden Medical Centre.
Do call 64748468 for an appointment or more information about the public forum.
Dear Eileen
Invisalign can usually correct a malocclusion on its own.
In cases which are too complicated for Invisalign to treat alone, the may be a period of treatment with normal braces either before or after the actual Invisalign treatment.
We are holding a public forum on Invisalign this Saturday 23 May at Camden Medical Centre.
Do call 64748468 for more information about the forum or for a consultation appointment.
Hi Dr Lim,
My gum receded ever since I had my braces done, and showing some holes between both teeth. Can i know is it possible for me to add in some gum to fill up the empty spaces between the teeth? what is the price range like? thanks
Hi Dr Lim,
I have Underbite or lower jaw protrusion problem. As i head that it may need to do an operation after the brace. Is it a must to gone through the operation or can it be treated to just wear the brace? and roughly how much it will cost? Thanks.
Dear Tammy
Whether your condition can be treated with braces alne or qill require jaw surgery as well will depend on 1) the severity of the jaw protrusion, and 2) whether you want you jaw to be corrected.
The cost of braces will range from $4000 to $6500 depending on whether you need jaw surgery and on the type of braces chosen.
If you have more questions about the surgery and costs, please email Dr Juliet Tay who is a specialist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at enquiry@iosc.com.sg or visit her clinic website at http://www.iosc.com.sg
Do call 64748468 for a consultation appointment or visit http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information.
Dear Livia
Gum recession can have several causes of which the most common is traumatic brushing ie brushing too hard or with a hard brush (always brush with a “soft” bristled brush!). If this is the case, it is important to correct your brushing technique or buy a new brush.
Holes between teeth near the gums are known as “black triangles” and are due to a lack of bony support for the gum tissue between the teeth or an abnoral tooth shape. The bony support can be lost if oral hygiene is not good and gum disease sets in. In cases where teeth are initially very malaligned, black triangles can occur after the teeth are straightened.
There are gum surgery techniques to correct this problem but they may not always be predictable. You should consult a gum specialist (periodontist) about this.
In certain cases, it may be possible for your orthodontist to thin the two teeth and bring them closer together which will minimise the amount of black triangle.
I hope this helps.
If you need a consultation or have more questions do call 64748468 for an appointment or visit http://www.bracesatwork.com
Hi Dr Lim, i believe before i go for braces, i will need to go for consulatation.
may i know your clinic consulatation fee?
Dear Susan
Our consultation fee is $80 but this can be waived if you quote mysingaporedentist as a referral when making an appointment.
Regards
Dr ARthur Lim
Dr Arthur
How much is Invisalign cost? Can it put for 6mths only?
Hi Dr Arthur,
I have smaller than average teeth. The upper set of teeth is a little crooked, with one chipped tooth form previous accident(but i had the broken part fixed with white filling). The lower part seems to have many a few teeth missing, there’s 4 or 5 gaps in between the teeth.
Can my problem be fix with braces or is there some other treatment better for me to achieve perfect teeth?
Dear Gin
Thank you for your enquiry.
Invisalign costs between $7500 and $8500 at our clinic. This ia a packaged price that includes all pre- and post- treatment records, all materials and aligners, all review visits, and retainer costs.
The duration of treatment will depend on the number of sets of aligners needed which will depend on the severity of your condition.
Do call in at 64748468 for a consultation or visit http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information.
Hi doc.
I would want to enquire on how much would be the price range for the consultation and the self-ligating braces for my 11 year old daughter.
Dear Yvonne
Thank you for your enquiry.
Your crooked teeth in your upper arch can easily be fixed with braces alone. With regards to your lower teeth, whether it can be fixed with braces alone or may need additional treatment like bridges or implant crowns will depend on the amount of spaces present.
Do call in at 64748468 for a consultation or go to http://www.bracesatwork.com for more information.
Hi Dr Lim,
I just need some clarification.
I have just relocated from Texas and brought my kids to see a prominent local orthodontist for a consultation before finding out of my posting to this sunny island.
The orthodontist there told me that self-ligating braces are bordering on a gimmick and that for every research article that supports quicker treatment there is another one which disputes it. I have done a quick literature review on pubmed and have found this to be the case. However, as a researcher and biostatician I know that research only has that much significance and sometimes we must rely on experience.
As my posting here is only for 2 years, I wish for my kids’ treatment to be done as fast as possible and I do not wish to wait for another 2 years and return to the states and miss that window of opportunity for treatment (my boy is 12 and my girl is 11, the orthodontist in Texas told me that the “late-mixed dentition” is good to start braces).
I work in the biotechnology field so this is clearly not my specialty. However, I also have first hand experience with what works and what sells so do pardon any cynical undertones which are not intended.
Thank you and kindest regards,
Dr Diego Sanchez
MS PhD
Good day Dr. Lim
Can braces fix an open bite caused by thumb sucking without the possibility of a surgery? Thanks in advance for your answer.
Hi Dr Lim,
i am 21 this yr and I have an underbite. its getting pretty uncomfortable. From the information i have gathered online, one who has an underbite has to undergo a jaw operation right?
How much is the whole procedure including the jaw op going to cost me?
And are there any organisation which is medisave accredited for this?