Gentle and Transformative Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, misalignment, uneven bites, or mispositioned jaws can significantly impact your smile and self-confidence.
At Sparkling White Dental, we understand these concerns and are here to help. You are not alone—many patients have regained their confidence through our comprehensive orthodontic care. We have also successfully corrected children’s teeth early on, allowing them to enjoy straight, healthy smiles.
Our principal dentist, Dr. Bik, brings over 28 years of experience and a special interest in orthodontics. His dedication and expertise have satisfied countless patients with their orthodontic treatments. During your visit, we’ll take the time to discuss your treatment options, address any concerns you may have, and provide transparent information regarding costs. Whether you’re exploring options like traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, our dedicated team will guide you towards achieving your ideal smile.
Orthodontic treatment addresses dental issues related to the position and alignment of teeth and jaws in both children and adults. Patients who seek orthodontic treatment often have crowded or gapped teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, or jaw misalignment. These issues can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, speech problems, and even impact self-esteem.
By addressing these problems, orthodontic treatments can provide significant relief and improve your smile’s functionality and appearance. It is best to book a consultation with us so we can determine the available options to help you achieve the smile you desire.
Here are some common signs that you might need orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners:
If your teeth or jaws are not in correct position, it may result in teeth crookedness. With orthodontic treatment, we can bring your teeth and jaws to desired position for a well-balanced smile.
If your upper teeth overlaps your lower teeth more than they should, it is called overbite. Overbite, if untreated, could result in other issues such as damage to mouth tissues, disproportionate smile, difficulty in chewing.
Underbite is when your lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. It is usually due to the misaligned jaw. Besides aesthetic issues, it often gives rise to issues such as jaw pain, tooth decay and gum disease.
Crossbite is when the upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth when the jaw is closed. Issues such as difficulty in biting, chewing and speech difficulty are common with crossbite, if left untreated.
Orthodontic treatments can move the teeth to desired shape which is effective in closing gap between teeth. If the gaps are mild, you may also be eligible for other treatments such as veneers and composite bonding.
As a family dentist, our team values proactive dental treatment and care for the whole family. As your child’s regular dentist, we closely monitor their growth patterns and dental development at every visit, allowing us to identify potential orthodontic issues early on. This includes orthodontic care for your child if needed. Through early intervention, we can address these concerns before they become more severe, minimising the need for extensive orthodontic treatments in the future.
With Dr. Bik’s experience and keen interest in orthodontic treatments, we can provide the best solution for your child’s unique needs. By having Sparkling White Dental as your regular dentist, your family will benefit from consistent, comprehensive care focusing on preventative and proactive dental treatment. Our goal is to guide the development of your child’s teeth and jaws, ensuring a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile as they grow.
Metallic braces are the traditional type of orthodontic treatment and have been used for decades to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues. These braces consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets that we attach to each tooth and connect by a metal wire. Periodic adjustments by an orthodontist tighten the wire, gradually moving the teeth into their desired positions. Metallic braces are known for their durability and effectiveness, making them reliable for treating diverse orthodontic problems, from minor misalignments to more complex bite issues. They are particularly effective for patients who need significant tooth movement.
Despite their noticeable appearance, metallic braces offer several advantages. They tend to be more cost-effective compared to other types of braces and are robust enough to handle the treatment of severe cases. Additionally, advancements in orthodontic technology have made metallic braces smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. Patients can also personalise their braces with colourful elastics, making the treatment process more enjoyable for younger patients.
Ceramic braces are similar to metallic braces in their design and function but are made of tooth-coloured ceramic material that blends with the natural colour of the teeth. This makes them a more aesthetic option for those concerned about the visibility of their braces. Ceramic braces work similarly to metallic braces, using brackets and wires to move and align teeth over time. They are popular amongst adults and teenagers who want a less conspicuous orthodontic treatment.
However, ceramic braces do have some limitations. They are generally more fragile than metallic braces and can be more prone to staining if not properly cared for. Diligent oral care and avoidance of teeth-staining substances are especially crucial. Despite these minor drawbacks, ceramic braces balance functionality and aesthetics well, making them an excellent option for those who want effective treatment with a more subtle appearance.
Self-ligating braces are an innovative orthodontic treatment that uses a special clip or bracket to hold the orthodontic wire in place, eliminating the need for elastic or metal ties. This design reduces friction between the wire and the brackets, allowing for easier and more comfortable tooth movement. Self-ligating braces can be either metallic or ceramic and are known for potentially shortening the overall treatment time compared to traditional braces.
Patients with self-ligating braces often experience less discomfort and fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. The absence of elastics means fewer places for plaque and food to accumulate, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. Self-ligating braces are a great choice for those wanting more comfortable and efficient orthodontic treatment without compromising results.
However, other factors need to be taken into consideration. Self-ligating braces can be more expensive and may still cause discomfort during adjustment and post-adjustments. They also are not suitable for all orthodontic cases, particularly complex misalignments, and while less noticeable than traditional braces, they are still visible. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene with self-ligating braces requires diligent cleaning to prevent dental issues.
Damon braces are a specific brand of self-ligating braces that use a slide mechanism to connect archwires to the brackets. This allows the teeth to move more freely and comfortably, often resulting in fewer adjustments and faster treatment times. Damon braces are designed to provide a more natural and less constricted movement of the teeth, which can lead to a more comfortable experience for the patient.
Damon braces are available in both metallic and clear options, providing the benefits of self-ligating technology with the added benefit of the choice of style. Patients who choose Damon braces often report less discomfort and pressure during the treatment process. Additionally, the self-ligating mechanism can be particularly effective in some patients reducing the overall time spent in braces, making them a popular choice for those seeking a quicker and more comfortable orthodontic experience.
However, Damon braces do have some disadvantages. They can be more expensive than traditional braces due to the advanced technology used. Additionally, they may still cause discomfort during the initial adjustment period and require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent dental issues.
Clear aligners are a modern and discreet orthodontic treatment option that uses a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before progressing to the next set in the series. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an appealing choice for adults and teenagers who want a less noticeable orthodontic treatment.
One of the main advantages of clear aligners is their removability, which allows patients to eat, brush, and floss without any restrictions. This makes maintaining oral hygiene much easier compared to traditional braces. However, clear aligners require a high level of compliance from the patient, as they need to be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day to be effective. Clear aligners are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Myobrace is a preventive pre-orthodontic treatment that focuses on correcting poor oral habits and promoting natural jaw development in children. The Myobrace system uses a series of removable intraoral appliances that are worn for 1-2 hours during the day and overnight while sleeping. These appliances are designed to train the muscles and tongue to function correctly, addressing underlying causes of crooked teeth and improving overall oral health.
Myobrace treatment aims to address orthodontic issues at an early stage, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for braces in the future. It is particularly beneficial for children with habits such as mouth breathing, thumb sucking, or incorrect swallowing patterns. By promoting proper oral habits and jaw development, Myobrace helps ensure a healthier smile and better dental outcome as your child grows.
Orthodontic treatment can be a crucial step towards achieving a straighter, healthier smile. However, we understand that it is also a significant financial investment with the cost of orthodontic care a concern for some patients. At Sparkling White Dental, we are committed to making orthodontic treatment accessible to everyone. To accommodate various financial situations, we offer a range of flexible payment plans, including:
The total cost of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case and the type of braces or aligners used. During your initial consultation, our compassionate team will conduct a thorough assessment of your orthodontic needs and provide a detailed breakdown of anticipated costs. We will also discuss available payment options to ensure transparency and affordability.
Schedule a consultation with us today to explore your orthodontic options and start your orthodontic journey towards a beautifully aligned smile.