Invisalign
Braces involve the straightening of crooked teeth with wires and can be done for both children as well as adults.
Although metallic components were traditionally used for braces, our Specialist Centre also offers more cosmetic alternatives like Invisalign (transparent braces) and Ceramic Braces, where suitable. Overall treatment time can vary from person to person and we will do a comprehensive assessment for our patients before recommending which type of braces would be most suitable. Braces can be done as single procedure, or as part of a more comprehensive plan which can involve other specific dental treatments.
When should one start on orthodontics?
AGE 7
This is the age when the front permanent teeth start erupting. In some cases, one of these teeth may be impacted and unable to erupt on its own. Early orthodontic treatment may be needed to correct this. Habits like thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting should be controlled at this age to encourage these teeth to erupt normally. Poor eruption of these teeth may result in aesthetic problems, and in severe cases may even result in speech and chewing difficulties.
AGE 9 - 10
At this age, an orthodontic screening is useful to assess any abnormalities in jaw growth, such as a small lower jaw or small, narrow upper jaw. Functional appliances can be used to treat certain jaw abnormalities at this point, as these same appliances are not effective once the patient has attained adulthood. Often an X-ray will be taken to check for dental abnormalities such as impacted teeth, congenitally missing teeth or extra teeth. Interceptive orthodontics may be necessary to assist with the dental development so future braces treatment will be less complicated.
AGE 11 - 14
By this age, the permanent teeth would have fully replaced the baby teeth and braces treatment, in most cases, is best done during this time.
ADULTHOOD
You are never too old for a straight and beautiful set of teeth. As long as you have a healthy set of teeth and gums, you can have your teeth straightened with cosmetic braces options such as transparent ceramic braces, as well as with Invisalign.
WHAT IS Invisalign?
Invisalign consists of a series of clear aligners that are worn full-time. Over time, they gently move your teeth into the desired positions.
How does inivisalign work?
Our dentists have been specially-trained to carry out Invisalign treatments and will start with a series of comprehensive digital scans, photos, X-rays or impressions to create a personalized measurement dossier for your teeth. These detailed measurements will be used along with the treatment prescribed by your doctor to create a customised 3D treatment plan. With the treatment plan, you’ll be able to see the final position your teeth are predicted to reach after treatment, along with an estimate of the likely length of your treatment.
Once they are ready, your series of custom-made aligners will be given to you (usually 3-4 sets at a time) for you to wear everyday for 20-22 hours consistently. You can change them at home every 2 weeks. Follow-up visits with your dentist are recommended approximately once every 6-8 weeks to monitor the progress of your treatment and receive the next series of aligners. Over time and with consistent wear following the treatment plan and your dentist’s instructions, your teeth will gradually move into the final position projected in the plan.
Why choose Invisalign?
They are made from a virtually invisible plastic, so you can wear them and not look like you are wearing anything additional over your teeth. Unlike traditional braces which are can be unsuitable for certain people because of their high visibility, Invisalign works unobtrusively to help straighten your teeth. The plan is also customized to exactly fit your teeth, resulting in an extremely personalized and targeted treatment procedure.