Braces – Dental Treatment
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with teeth alignment to correct malocclusions (improper bites) and also the modification of facial growth with braces. While orthodontic treatment has traditionally been recommended for functional reasons (i.e. to improve a patient’s bite), it is increasingly used for aesthetic reasons to improve a person’s appearance.
Common problems corrected using orthodontic appliances include improperly-aligned teeth, crowded or unevenly spaced teeth, protruding teeth, extra or missing teeth, misaligned jaws and bite problems.
When to get Braces?
Generally, patients who suffer from orthodontics issues can benefit from the procedure at any age. The most ideal age group to benefit would be early teens as their adult teeth are still developing. A dentist will need to do a check up to see if the patient would need braces. If there are major problems present such as crooked teeth, overbites and underbites or misaligned jaws, then the dentist will recommend the patient to wear braces to help straighten the teeth.
Procedure of Braces
The procedure is fairly simple and would normally take at least an hour or more. Firstly, the orthodontist will clean the teeth. When the teeth is dry, bonding glue is applied to the teeth. This is done to attach the brackets on the teeth. The final step is to put the archwire in the brackets and secure it in place with elastic bands.
The Benefits of Braces
Besides having straighter teeth, there are several benefits of getting braces:
- Improves the overall appearance when you smile
- Helps individuals to bite, chew and speak properly
- Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain especially when you brush & floss
- Reduces wear and grinding problems on the teeth
- Healthier and straight teeth are less likely to be fractured in accidents
- Early straightening can prevent future dental costs in later years if it worsens
Medisave Claims Eligibility for Braces
*Braces are generally not claimable under the MediSave scheme unless the treatment involves surgery and is performed due to medical reasons. Non-surgical dental treatments such as extractions, crowning, dentures or braces are not MediSave-claimable. Contact us to find out if your treatment is claimable.