Braces (Orthodontics)

What is Orthodontics (Braces)?

Orthodontics (braces) is the branch of dentistry that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention and correction of improperly positioned teeth and jaws. The technical term for these problems is malocclusion, which is literal for ‘bad bite’.

When your teeth do not fit well together, there are numerous risks of complications that can arise from this, including overall cleanliness, tooth decay, periodontal disease, unnecessary stress on chewing muscles leading to headaches and shoulder/back pain and physical unsightliness.

With orthodontic treatment, corrective appliances (such as braces, plates, headgears and functional appliances) would be utilised for a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance and long-lasting teeth.

Who is suitable for Braces (Orthodontics)?

Only your dentist or orthodontist can determine your suitability for braces. He or she will run through a series of diagnostic tests to determine and recommend the best course of braces (orthodontics) for you, and develop a plan that’s customised to your particular situation.

Braces (Orthodontics) at T32

Advances in braces (orthodontic) technology has made this treatment less painful, which means fewer lifestyle restrictions for you during treatment. This has made it an increasingly popular option for children and adults who wish to straighten their crooked teeth.

After braces are removed, your teeth will not only be aesthetically more attractive but also easier to brush, which reduces the chances of tooth decay and gum infections. What’s more, neatly aligned teeth can make it easier for you to chew food, improve the way you speak and improve your appearance by giving you a more attractive lip position and facial profile.

Options:

Conventional orthodontics (braces) involves the placement of metal brackets on the tooth surface with a metal wire inserted across the brackets to align the teeth (fig1).

A less visible option includes the use of ceramic brackets and Invisalign® technology. Ceramic brackets are clear brackets which do not require the use of elastics to hold the wire in place (fig2). This results in a notable reduction in visibility of the braces. Invisalign® is a clear, removable tray that sits over the teeth. This tray is computer fabricated and invisible when worn. Some children may only require removable plastic plates to move specific teeth.

Extra-oral appliances may also be prescribed to correct growth problems. The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the initial severity of the dental problem. With the consideration of factors affecting dental health, the orthodontist will be able to give a time estimate of your treatment once he/she has seen you.

Maintenance:

Retainers, as post-orthodontic treatment, are issued to patients to maintain the corrected dentition. Retainer wear is an important part of successful braces (orthodontic) treatment, and the length of retainer wear depends on the initial severity of the dental problem. Retainers may be made of clear plastics or acrylic plates, which can be worn full-time or overnight.

The T32 Advantage: Our team consists of the region’s leading orthodontists who have advanced training in this speciality and are experienced in working with colleagues from other medical and dental disciplines to provide the best advice and highest level of total dental care for patients of all ages.