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Have you ever dreamed of a perfect smile with well-aligned, straight teeth? As a student, you might worry that braces’ cost is out of your reach. Don’t be concerned! We are here to guide you through the various affordable options for braces for students in Singapore, so you can embark on your journey to achieving that confident and radiant smile without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the world of braces, from the cost and types to the dental treatments and how to maintain them. So buckle up, and let’s dive in!
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten and align teeth. Braces have several components, including brackets, wires, and bands.
They work by constantly putting pressure on the teeth, gradually moving teeth into the desired position. Over time, as the teeth gradually shift, the braces are adjusted periodically to maintain the right amount of pressure. The overall process helps to correct orthodontic cases, such as crooked teeth, gapped teeth, and underbites (lower teeth to be in front of the upper teeth) and creates a straighter, healthier smile.
Now that we’ve covered how braces work, let’s dive into the types of braces in Singapore.
So, what type of braces do most students get? There are three main types of braces that students can consider: metal, ceramic, and clear aligners (invisible braces). Each type has unique features, catering to different preferences and dental conditions. Understanding their differences will help you make an informed decision when choosing the appropriate option for your braces journey.
Whether you prioritise affordability, aesthetics, or comfort, there are braces options that fit your needs. Let’s take a closer look at each type of brace.
A metal brace is a classic and reliable option for students in Singapore. It comprises metal brackets that are held together with dental cement and an archwire. This is known for its strength and durability, ensuring effective straightening of teeth throughout the treatment process.
When installed or adjusted, traditional metal braces can be uncomfortable. But despite these challenges, metal braces remain popular among students due to their affordability and proven effectiveness in achieving well-aligned teeth.
Ceramic braces are a good option for students who prefer a discreet orthodontic treatment. These braces function similarly to metal braces but feature clear or tooth-coloured brackets and archwires that blend with your natural tooth structure, making them less noticeable.
Clear aligners offer a unique braces experience for students who prioritise comfort and aesthetics. They are clear, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit your teeth. They are invisible when worn, making them appealing for those wishing to discreetly straighten their teeth. Clear aligners are fully removable, allowing you to maintain good oral hygiene and the freedom to eat whatever you want.
The success of clear aligner treatment largely depends on the patient’s commitment to wearing the braces for the recommended amount of time each day. Consult with your dentist to determine if this type of brace is the right option for you.
Two other types of braces in Singapore are available today, including self-ligating and lingual.
Self-ligating braces are an orthodontic treatment that uses a specialised clip or door mechanism to secure the wires, allowing for efficient tooth movement. These braces eliminate the need for elastics or metal ties, making them easier to clean and maintain good oral hygiene, which is crucial for students busy with schoolwork. Self-ligating braces have shorter treatment times and reduce discomfort compared to traditional braces.
Lingual braces are essentially fixed braces — metal brackets and wires — placed on the back of the teeth facing the tongue. This positioning makes them virtually invisible when smiling or speaking. They require specialised training for their placement and are custom-made to fit each individual’s teeth.
Lingual braces provide a subtle treatment option for students who may feel self-conscious about wearing orthodontic appliances.
In Singapore, the braces cost may vary depending on the type you choose. Generally, ceramic and self-ligating braces can range from around $4,500 and upwards, while traditional braces can range from $3,800.
These prices are rough estimates, and the actual cost of braces treatment may vary based on individual cases and requirements. For more accurate information on the cost of braces, it is important to consult a dentist at a reputable dental clinic. They can provide a personalised treatment plan and cost estimate based on your specific needs.
In addition to the average cost of braces treatment, dental clinics in Singapore also offer payment options to make the braces journey manageable for students. Full-time students of education levels ranging from primary to tertiary receive student rates and are eligible for discounted braces treatments at selected dental clinics. This includes those in universities and polytechnics.
At Casa Dental, we incorporate orthodontic adjustments in our braces packages, like wire adjustment and bracket repositioning—schedule a consultation to get detailed information about our treatment plans and orthodontic treatment offerings for students.
In this section, we will explore the three main factors that influence the cost of braces treatment: the severity of dental issues, single or double arch treatment, and dental insurance plans. Understanding these factors can help you estimate the overall cost of your treatment and choose the suitable option for your budget and dental needs.
The complexity of your dental issues plays a significant role in determining the cost of braces treatment. The more severe the dental issue, the more complicated the treatment, and the higher the cost will be. Common dental issues that can affect the treatment price include crowding, misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
The severity of dental issues can also be influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and diet. Maintaining oral hygiene and addressing dental issues early on can help reduce the severity of the problem and, consequently, the cost of treatment.
It is essential to consult with a dental professional to assess your dental condition and determine the appropriate braces treatment plan for your specific needs.
Another factor that can influence the cost of treatment is whether you require single or double-arch treatment. Single-arch treatment focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth in one arch of the mouth, while double-arch treatment addresses the teeth in both the upper and lower teeth.
As you might expect, single-arch treatment is typically less expensive than double-arch treatment due to the fewer materials and adjustments required.
Dental insurance plans can also play a role in orthodontic costs. Some plans may offer up to 50% coverage for braces treatment, but not all dental insurance plans cover braces work. Before starting your braces treatment, make sure to review your insurance policy and consult with your insurance provider to determine if your plan covers orthodontic treatment.
Various dental insurance options are available, including traditional and discount (family) dental and university-sponsored plans. Each type of plan offers different benefits and drawbacks, so it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your options and select the plan that suits your needs and budget.
With the right dental insurance plan in place, you can significantly reduce the expenses of your braces treatment and achieve straighter teeth without financial stress.
This section will provide you with our pricing structure, including inclusions and exclusions for braces treatment. Please note that all prices indicated below are exclusive of the GST at a rate of 8%.
Student Braces: $3800
Inclusions: Orthodontic Adjustments
Exclusions:
Want to achieve a natural, confident smile? Book an appointment at Casa Dental today and experience a wide range of dental care treatments in Singapore. Our skilled team of dental professionals is here to provide you with personalised and comprehensive dental services and address all your dental health concerns. Whether you need a routine check-up, teeth cleaning and whitening, or other services, we’ve got you covered!
Now, let’s get into your orthodontic journey. This process typically involves an initial consultation, braces installation, and regular adjustments. Understanding each step of the braces treatment process will help you prepare for your journey towards a perfect smile.
During the initial consultations, our dentist will assess your dental conditions to determine if braces are the right option for you. They will gather necessary diagnostic records, such as upper and lower teeth impressions for study models and X-rays, to create a personalised treatment plan.
If you’re deemed a suitable candidate for the treatment, our dentist will discuss the various braces options, costs, and payment plans available. They will also provide detailed information about the braces treatment process, including the estimated duration and any additional dental procedures that may be required.
The initial step is a valuable opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the braces treatment process and address any concerns.
Once you have decided on the type of braces and received your personalised treatment plan, the next step is the braces installation. This process involves teeth cleaning, attaching the brackets with adhesive, placing the archwires into the brackets, and securing them with elastic bands. The braces attachment process may take a few hours, but it is crucial to achieving well-aligned teeth.
After the braces are installed, you might experience some mild soreness or discomfort as your teeth begin to adjust to the new pressure exerted by the braces. This discomfort is normal and should subside within a few days. Make sure to follow our dentist’s instructions on proper oral hygiene and diet to ensure a smooth and comfortable adjustment to your new braces.
Regular adjustments are an essential part of the braces treatment process. These adjustments involve removing the elastic ligature, adjusting the archwires, replacing the elastic ties, teeth assessment, and making necessary changes to help enhance the teeth alignment. Generally, adjustments or tightening of braces are made every 4-10 weeks, depending on your individual needs.
These processes serve to maintain constant pressure on your teeth, slowly encouraging your teeth to move into the desired positions. It is important to attend your scheduled adjustment appointments to ensure the success of the treatment of your braces and achieve the good results possible.
Regular check-ups also allow our dentist to monitor your treatment progress and make any adjustments to your treatment plan.
Proper care of your teeth and braces is essential for a successful treatment result and for maintaining oral health. As a student, it’s important to establish a good oral care routine and make the necessary adjustments to your diet to avoid complications during your dental care journey.
In this section, we will provide helpful tips and guidelines on how to care for your braces. These include cleaning and maintenance practices and food and diet considerations to keep your braces in optimal condition and ensure a smooth, comfortable treatment experience!
Appropriate oral hygiene is crucial when wearing braces, as food particles and plaque can easily be entrapped around the brackets and wires. To effectively clean and maintain your braces, brush your teeth twice daily with a small-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, cleaning underneath the wire and around the gum margins. Additionally, using a floss threader or water flosser daily can help remove trapped food particles and plaque between your teeth and around the braces.
Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning appointments are also essential for maintaining oral health and overall health. Your dentist can monitor your oral hygiene and provide additional guidance on caring for your braces.
When wearing braces, be mindful of the foods you consume, as certain types of food can damage braces components or cause discomfort. Stick with soft foods such as sweet potatoes, yoghurt, soups, eggs, oatmeal, fish, noodles, and soft fruits. Avoid hard and sticky foods like gum, nuts, hard and sticky candies, corn on the cob, crunchy vegetables, hard cookies or crackers, and chewy meat, as these can damage the brackets and wires or become lodged between your braces and teeth.
In addition, it’s also important to avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as these can contribute to decay and enamel erosion. Maintaining a balanced, braces-friendly diet will help protect your braces and ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy.
While getting braces can be time-consuming and costly, it is worth the time and money! Let’s delve into some of the positive impacts that braces can have on your life.
The orthodontic treatment enhances the aesthetic appeal of a student’s smile and plays a vital role in enhancing their oral health. Misaligned teeth can lead to difficulties in dental hygiene maintenance, resulting in a higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Braces can help correct these misalignments, making it easier for students to maintain proper oral hygiene and reducing the likelihood of future dental problems.
Having a beautiful smile can significantly impact a student’s self-confidence. Dental problems can make them self-conscious about their appearance, lowering self-esteem and inhibiting social interactions. Braces can address these concerns, gradually aligning the teeth and helping students feel more confident about their smiles and overall appearance.
Malocclusion of the teeth can affect speech patterns and make chewing food challenging. By correcting this, braces can help students speak clearly and chew food effectively.
Protruding teeth are prone to injuries during physical activities or sports. Braces can align and reposition the teeth, reducing the risk of teeth injuries and ensuring the student’s oral health remains intact.
In conclusion, achieving straighter teeth as a student in Singapore is possible through affordable braces options, with costs ranging from $3,800. Students can choose from various braces types, such as metal, ceramic, clear aligner, self-ligating, or lingual, depending on their preferences and dental needs. Factors influencing braces treatment costs include the severity of dental issues, single or double-arch treatment, and dental insurance plans.
By understanding the braces treatment journey, knowing the benefits and how to care for your braces, you can confidently embark on your journey towards a perfect smile. With the right braces option, payment plan, and commitment to proper oral hygiene, that dream smile is just a few steps away! So take charge of your oral health today and begin your journey towards straighter teeth and a more confident smile.
The minimum age for braces in Singapore is 7 years old, as it is possible for children to have jaw growth discrepancies or emerging teeth irregularities at this age. The Association of Orthodontists – Singapore recommends that all children undergo their initial screening with a dentist at ages 7 to 8. However, the majority of patients typically begin treatment between 12 and 14 after their baby teeth have fallen out.
Unfortunately, braces are not claimable under the MediSavescheme unless they are surgical procedures like dental implants and wisdom tooth surgery. While some insurers may provide coverage for it, you will need to check with your insurance provider. Overall, it is not a standard benefit included in most health plans.
There is no age limit for orthodontics. Getting braces at 17 is a perfectly reasonable decision to make. Once the permanent teeth are in, braces are possible! Dental health and age should not be related. In the end, the decision is up to you and your dentist, who can evaluate your condition.
The duration of braces treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the dental issues being addressed. On average, students wear braces for about 1 to 3 years. However, some cases may require a shorter or longer treatment time.
Yes, Casa Dental provides a 0% instalment option. Our dental services come with a convenient payment plan that allows you to pay off the total cost of your treatment in regular instalments.
Moreover, we offer 0% instalment fees on major cards such as UOB, OCBC, and DBS, providing you with added financial flexibility.
