As a parent in Singapore, preparing your child for braces can seem daunting. Whether you’re considering traditional braces, Damon self-ligating metal braces, Damon Clear ceramic braces or exploring options like Invisalign for teens, it's important to ensure that both you and your child are ready and committed for the journey ahead. Here are some essential tips and insights to help you navigate the process of getting braces in Singapore for your child.

When should my child start Braces Treatment?

While orthodontic treatment most commonly begins during teenage years among secondary school students, there are significant benefits to having your child evaluated by an orthodontist in Singapore at an earlier age. The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children should have their first orthodontic consultation by age 7.

Initiating an early evaluation doesn’t necessarily mean your child will start wearing braces immediately. Rather, it allows the orthodontist to identify any potential issues early on and determine the most opportune moment to begin treatment.

Orthodontists in Singapore are trained to detect subtle issues with the development of the jaw and the alignment of emerging teeth. A routine check-up might confirm that a child’s bite is normal, or it might uncover developmental issues. Based on their findings, the orthodontist might suggest regular monitoring and, if necessary, recommend starting treatment at the most beneficial time. In some instances, they might discover a condition that would benefit from early intervention with braces.

Understanding the Need for Braces

Start by explaining to your child why braces are necessary. Many children feel self-conscious about getting braces, especially during their years as a student. Discuss the benefits, such as improved oral health, better aligned teeth, and a beautiful smile. Reassure them that braces are very common among their peers in school, and they are not alone in this experience.

Choosing the Right Braces for Students

With various options available, choosing the right type of braces is crucial. Traditional student braces in Singapore consist of stainless steel brackets that are precisely positioned on your teeth. Coloured rubber bands are used to secure thin wires in the brackets of the metal dental braces.

Modern braces designs can be less noticeable and more comfortable. The Damon self-ligating braces in Singapore has a 'sliding door' mechanism that holds the wire passively and allows the wire to move easily with less friction. Damon Q metal braces and Damon Clear ceramic braces reduce the need for elastics rubber ties, and is therefore gentler, cleaner and more comfortable for your child. For students concerned about their appearance, Damon Clear dental braces or Invisalign clear aligners in Singapore might be suitable options. Invisalign clear aligners for teens are virtually invisible and can be removed during meals or while brushing teeth, making them a popular choice among teenagers who are self-conscious about wearing braces.

Preparing Emotionally and Practically

Emotional Preparation:

• Communication is Key: Regularly discuss what your child can expect throughout their orthodontic journey. Encourage them to express their feelings and concerns.

• Positive Reinforcement: Highlight the positive aspects of having student braces, like how many of their friends and classmates have successfully gone through the same process.

Practical Preparation:

• Diet Adjustments: Prepare your child for adjustments in their diet. Foods that are too crunchy, sticky, or hard should be avoided as they can damage the braces.

• Oral Hygiene: Teach your child the importance of maintaining excellent oral hygiene with dental braces. This includes brushing after every meal and using special interdental brushes to clean around the brackets and wires.

Finding the Right Orthodontist

Selecting a qualified orthodontist in Singapore is crucial. Look for dental clinics with dentists who are accredited orthodontic specialists with the Ministry of Health Singapore, to ensure that your child receives quality care tailored to their specific needs. Accredited specialist orthodontists in Singapore require a 3-year orthodontic Masters degree certificate, followed by another accreditation exam at least 2 years later to ensure the dentist is sufficiently experienced and skilled to deliver orthodontic treatment in Singapore. A good orthodontist in Singapore will not only provide professional treatment but will also make your child feel comfortable and supported throughout their treatment.

Supporting Your Child Through Treatment

Braces can be a significant adjustment for a child, and your support is vital:

• Regular Checkups: Ensure your child is attending their braces review appointments regularly, and stay informed about the braces treatment progress.

• Dealing with Discomfort: Have pain relievers on hand for your child to manage the initial discomfort that often follows a dental braces adjustment.

• Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate small milestones such as getting metal braces on, seeing their front teeth straightening, and getting the metal braces removed.

• Long Term Maintenance: Keep their smile in place with retainers! Encourage your child to use their retainers daily, all the time for the first 6 months after removing their braces, and thereafter every night minimally to prevent their teeth from shifting out of position.

Conclusion

Preparing your child for braces involves more than just physical preparation; it includes emotional support and practical adjustments to their daily routine. By choosing the right type of braces, such as mental dental braces, or clear dental braces like Damon Clear ceramic braces or Invisalign for teens in Singapore, and by providing ongoing support, you can help ensure that your child's journey to a better smile is a success. Remember, the journey might seem long, but the outcome—a beautiful, healthy smile—will be worth it.

Align Braces Clinic’s team comprises of qualified specialist orthodontists in Singapore. As an accredited Platinum Elite Invisalign provider in Singapore in 2021 and 2022, Align Braces Clinic’s skilled team ensures quality care specially tailored to your child’s needs. Consult with a dental professional in our clinic to determine if your child is ready for student braces treatment.