Timeline for Braces in Singapore: What to Expect From Start to Finish
Embarking on the journey to a perfect smile with braces in Singapore is an exciting time for many. Whether you are a parent considering student braces for your child, or an adult looking to enhance your smile, understanding the typical timeline of orthodontic treatment can help you to be prepared for the process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect from the initial consultation with your orthodontist in Singapore, through to the removal of braces and the maintenance of your smile with retainers.
Initial Consultation
What Happens: The orthodontic journey begins with an initial consultation with an accredited specialist orthodontist in Singapore. During this visit, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth condition and jaw structures. This may include the use of X-rays, iTero 3D scans, as well as photographs to accurately diagnose your teeth and jaw condition and to formulate a suitable treatment plan.
Timeline: Typically, this appointment takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Treatment Planning
What Happens: Based on the initial assessments, your orthodontist in Singapore will develop a customised treatment plan for you. This plan will detail the type of braces recommended (metal braces, ceramic braces, Damon self-ligating braces, or Invisalign clear aligners), whether any additional orthodontic anchorage appliances are required (e.g. Trans-palatal arches and mini-screws), whether any tooth extractions are necessary, and the estimated duration of treatment. The braces costs or Invisalign costs in Singapore will also be shared with you by the dental clinic team.
Timeline: Depending on the complexity of your orthodontic condition, the treatment planning can be done together at the initial consultation or a separate visit. This may be a few days to a couple of weeks after the initial consultation.
Braces Fitting
What Happens: After the treatment plan is finalised, an appointment will be scheduled to have your braces fitted. If teeth extractions are required, the teeth are usually removed prior to braces fitting. This visit involves bonding brackets to your teeth using dental adhesives, then carefully attaching wires to the dental brackets. After the braces are fitted, you will be taught special brushing and flossing techniques to clean around your braces effectively.
Timeline: Braces fitting generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Braces Adjustment and Monitoring Progress
What Happens: With dental braces in Singapore, regular adjustments are necessary to monitor and effect treatment progress. These appointments involve changing the orthodontic wires or tightening the braces to guide teeth into their desired positions. Throughout the treatment, your orthodontist in Singapore will monitor the progress and adjustments the treatment plan if necessary. This continuous evaluation ensures that you are on track to achieving your desired smile.
Timeline: Braces adjustments are typically scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks and are relatively quick, ranging about 10-20 minutes per visit.
Removal of Braces
What Happens: The braces treatment duration ranges from 1- 3 years, depending on the complexity of your orthodontic condition. Once your best smile has been achieved, it is time to remove the braces. This appointment is usually very exciting for patients as they get to see their new smile for the first time.
Timeline: The dental braces removal process typically takes about half an hour.
Retention Phase
What Happens: After the braces are removed, the retention phase of treatment begins. During this period, retainers are used to hold your teeth in their new positions. These can be removable retainers (e.g. Hawley retainers, Zendura clear retainers, or Vivera retainers) or fixed retainers, depending on the specific recommendations by your orthodontist in Singapore.
Timeline: Depending on the type of retainers prescribed, they may be fitted 3- 7 days after your braces is removed. You will need wear the retainers full-time for the first 6 months, and thereafter only at night, for a lifetime to prevent relapse. Your retainers will be reviewed every 6 months to ensure its condition and fit are acceptable. Depending on the wear and tear of the retainers, they may require a replacement every 1- 3 years.
Conclusion
The orthodontic treatment journey is a long term commitment, but the results are worthwhile for a lifetime. If you or your child is looking to embark on this transformative braces process, knowing the timeline can help you to manage expectations and to prepare for each phase appropriately. Remember, each patient’s journey is unique, so timelines might vary based on one’s dental condition.
At every step of the way, your orthodontist in Singapore will guide you, ensuring you achieve your best smile. Align Braces Clinic’s team comprises of accredited specialist orthodontists in Singapore. Consult with a dental professional in our team to find out more!