Finding The Right Dental Clinic In SG For Children’s Braces
Braces for children and students have become a more common treatment today compared to 20 years ago. This is due, in part, to them becoming more socially acceptable and less embarrassing, but it’s also because parents are becoming more aware of the health benefits of orthodontic treatments for misaligned teeth and jaws.
There are various options you can explore if your child requires orthodontic treatments. These include:
- Metal braces comprising stainless steel brackets and wires held together with rubber bands.
- Ceramic braces with tooth-coloured or clear ceramic brackets and stainless steel wires
- Invisible braces or clear aligners made from clear thermo-moulded plastic trays
Each type of braces has both benefits and disadvantages – for example metal braces are the most affordable option, but clear aligners are seen as more comfortable and convenient. Find out more about the different types of dental braces available in Singapore and how to find the right dental clinic for your family.
At what Age can my Child get Braces?
Braces can generally be fitted between the ages of 9 to 14 after a person’s full set of adult teeth have come in. The teeth are easier to move at a younger age, making treatment for children or teenagers more effective compared to adults. Braces treatments for children in Singapore usually last between 1 to 4 years.
Your dentist will be able to recommend if your child requires braces, or you can ask for a follow-up with an orthodontist. Braces do require additional care and responsibility (e.g. brushing properly with interdental brushes, avoiding hard and crunchy foods) so it’s important to talk to your child about what it’ll entail before making the decision to go ahead.
Teenagers in particular may want to get invisible braces rather than traditional braces to feel less self-conscious. Find out more about the pros and cons of clear aligners VS braces to help soothe any worries or uncertainties. It may still be common to have some regrets or unhappiness after the braces have been fitted. Take the time to reassure them that this is a very short time in their lives and that the end result will be worth a slight inconvenience now.
In the leadup to getting their braces fitted make sure to stock up on soft foods at home, buy any brushing or flossing equipment you might need, and ask your dental clinic for dental wax to ease discomfort and pain.
What should I look for in an Orthodontic Dental Clinic?
When looking for an orthodontic clinic for your kids’ braces treatment, there are several factors to consider. Cost is one of the main concerns as braces can cost between $3,000 to $7,000 for a full treatment. You’ll also need to bring your child for regular check-ups so it’s best to find an orthodontic dental clinic near your home for convenience.
However it’s also important to consider if the orthodontist you’re seeking treatment with is friendly and able to establish a rapport with your child. Undergoing dental procedures can be intimidating for an adult, let alone a child, so it’s even more important that you find an orthodontist who can create a welcoming environment for your child. As you’ll be seeing them throughout the entire braces process, it’s even more important to find a specialist that your child looks forward to seeing.
Here at FDC our resident orthodontic specialists are Dr. Jennie Shue Yoke-Shien and Dr. Tang Panmei. With decades of experience between them, Dr. Shue and Dr. Tang are not only skilled at what they do but are great with patients of all ages.
Find out more about Braces and Clear Aligner Treatments at FDC
Family Dental Centre is dedicated to helping all of our patients achieve the smile of their dreams. With dental clinics islandwide across Singapore, we provide accessible options for easy dental checkups throughout the duration of your child’s braces treatment.
Book an appointment today for a consultation, or to find out more about our orthodontic and dental services including metal braces, ceramic braces, and invisible clear aligner braces.
