Braces, also known as orthodontics is the treatment of straightening the teeth. Mostly, parents decide this treatment for their children, but is equally possible for adults to undergo the same process of straightening their teeth.

Why Straighten Teeth? 

Straightening teeth has both a functional purpose as well as an aesthetic purpose. Most people believe that straightening their teeth are for aesthetic purposes only. 

However, the functional purpose of straightening the teeth is so much more important. If there is a tooth that is out of alignment, constantly biting on the tooth may cause a chip or fracture of the opposing tooth. Imagine two wooden blocks being constantly hit together, however one of the blocks is being hit on its corner rather than the flat region. 

Over years and years of hitting each other, the flat wooden block will definitely get severely damaged. Similar with teeth – one of the teeth will overtime develop a fracture/ crack and will need to be extracted leaving a gap. Our oral health professionals are able to check the teeth very early on in children’s lives in order to ensure their teeth function will not cause issues later on in life.

The BEST time for straightening teeth is children between the ages of 6-18. This is because as the jaw grows, it can provide space for the teeth to straighten within. 

Also, children’s jaws are softer than adults and therefore teeth can move easily compared with later on in life. Thirdly, treating children can also avoid additional treatment, compared with adults who want to achieve a better smile.

No. Generally adults are more inclined towards clear aligners compared with traditional braces. Clear aligners include brands such as Invisalign which we provide. 

There are pros and cons for each one – e.g. braces straighten teeth quicker compared with aligners in most cases. However, clear aligners are less noticeable and are removable. 

Our oral health professionals will be able to give you tailored advice as to which treatment modality would work best and be most comfortable for you.