More adults in Singapore are opting for braces. But is getting one after 30 – or even 50 – worth it?

The cost of dentures varies, according to Dr. Lydia Yong, an optometrist and director of the Align Braces Clinic, based on the level of detail and the type of braces used.

For example, clear glasses can cost anywhere between S$ 3, 000 to S$ 10, 000 while metal brackets may be in the selection of S$ 4, 500 to S$ 6, 000. Ceramic and self-ligating brackets cost around S$ 5, 000 to S$ 7, 000.

Another driving issue? Greater attention on looks and personal look, amplified by social media. ” With visible platforms becoming more common, some people have increased self-awareness after noticing defects during video calls or in images, and have opted for orthodontic solutions”, Dr Yong said.

Straighter smile, in the opinion of many, enhance both their teeth and general self-assurance.

Research has shown that post-braces, adults have increased self-assurance and have a positive impact on their professional lives, according to Dr. Koo, who is also the president of the Association of Orthodontists ( Singapore ). For example, a study in The Angle Orthodontist in 2016 found that over 70 per cent of adult patients reported improved self-esteem after orthopedic care.

NOT ONLY FOR AESTHETICS

While some people straighten their teeth for aesthetic reasons, there are also significant functional and practical benefits. Because they are more difficult to clean, misaligned smile can make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene.

Dentures can also aid in the treatment of gum disease and medical issues. For instance, it could be used to create patients embarking on therapeutic procedures, such as jewels and implants.

Dr. Koo explained that brackets may be used to optimize the distance for upcoming dental work in cases where patients may have missing teeth from past samples in the past.

The adjacent tooth may gradually move and travel into the recovery room, preventing the therapeutic dentist from “filling” the area with dental implants or crowns when left alone and untreated for a while.