5 Simple Ways to Help Children Avoid Cavities
Setting up your child’s dental hygiene routine does not need to be too complicated, and you can adopt five simple yet effective ways to help them avoid cavities.
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry where teeth are moved to correct teeth misalignments. In Singapore, we have seen an increased uptake of orthodontics, the rise in number attributed to the pursuit of straight teeth and a confident smile. Whether you are looking for a dental solution for your child or to correct your own teeth, we have curated a detailed and holistic care plan for patients of all ages.
Here at Le by An Dental, our resident orthodontist, Dr Ivan Prabowo, will discuss the best plan to help resolve your concerns. This could include a misaligned jaw position, painful clicks at your temporomandibular joint, or a crooked smile. Depending on the baseline condition of your teeth, you may be recommended:
Metal braces are the most traditional orthodontic solution with long-term studies of correcting most teeth malalignment issues. Some studies have indicated metal braces to be more efficient in addressing certain types of severe tooth malalignment issues and severe cases of malocclusions. Metal braces are one of the few types of fixed braces, which will be bonded to the teeth by metal brackets and wires and secured in place with elastic ties.
Essentially, orthodontic braces exert pressure on the teeth over a period of time until they achieve “the desired tooth alignment”. During consultation, X-rays will be taken to check if any buried teeth are present, which might hinder tooth movement, and to check for wisdom teeth to see if they block the way of the desired teeth positions. X-rays are also taken to see if the root cause of the malocclusion is due to a skeletal issue. In this case, we may have to discuss surgical options to correct the facial bone, and a Dento-facial-esthetics analysis may be suggested. Subsequently, a personalised treatment plan will be curated, which includes:
Children's orthodontic needs are different from adults. Their jaws are still growing, which means some issues are easier (and cheaper) to correct early, before permanent teeth fully come in. Early evaluation helps us catch problems like crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth imbalances while there's still room to guide development, rather than waiting until braces are the only option.
At Le By An, we assess each child individually. Not every child needs treatment right away, and not every early finding means braces are coming. Our goal is to monitor, intervene only when it helps, and avoid unnecessary treatment.
Your experience will vary depending on the type of braces you are prescribed.
Below is a table highlighting the distinctions in process between metal braces and Invisalign:
The primary changes one may observe post-braces are straightened teeth. This could also result in some changes in facial structure. Patients formerly impeded by their teeth’s misalignment (unclear speech, difficulties chewing, mouth-breathing) may also find these symptoms improved and relieved.
Contrary to popular belief, orthodontic braces are not purely cosmetic. They may also be indicated to improve function and overall health.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. Assesment can be done by an orthodontist or a paediatric dentist. At this age, a mix of baby and permanent teeth is usually present, which gives us enough information to spot early warning signs, even if treatment isn’t needed yet.
Signs it may be time for an evaluation include:
An early check-up doesn’t always mean early treatment. Many children are simply monitored every 6 to 12 months until the timing is right.
Your child's first orthodontic visit is mostly about observation, not treatment. Here's what to expect:
Discussion: We start by asking about your child's dental history, habits (like thumb-sucking), and any concerns you've noticed.
Examination: We check how your child's teeth and jaws are developing, looking at bite alignment, crowding, and jaw growth.
X-rays (if needed): Some children need an X-ray to see how permanent teeth are positioned under the gums.
Recommendation: Based on what we find, we'll either recommend monitoring with regular check-ups, or suggest early treatment if there's a clear benefit to starting now.
There's no pressure to start treatment at the first visit. Our priority is giving you a clear, honest picture of your child's dental development, so you can make an informed decision on timing.
Typically, patients must wear braces anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. The exact duration will vary on a case-by-case basis. It depends on how severe the malocclusion was in the first place. Additionally, the estimated timeline to wear braces is applicable as long as patients commit to their dentist appointments (to “tighten” wire for metal braces) and change the aligners as prescribed (for Invisalign).
In the initial stages, there will be some changes to your speech. However, as you adjust to your braces over time, you will be able to speak normally.
Braces should not stop you from any musical pursuit. If you are a musician, discuss with your dentist the best ways to adjust to playing instruments with a mouthpiece.
Braces should also not affect any athletic pursuit. If you are participating in high-contact sports such as rugby, protecting yourself with a mouthguard is in your best interest. No special considerations are usually required regarding sports when wearing braces.
Gum disease MUST be treated before orthodontic treatment is commenced. Moving teeth in diseased bone and gums will make your teeth shake even more! The good news is that once your gums have been treated and your teeth are firm, we can most likely start on orthodontic treatment.
Metal braces do have a reputation for being more painful than other forms of orthodontic braces. However, this is usually only during the first week or after changing wires. You will soon be accustomed to the discomfort. Invisalign, too, can cause some pain as the teeth shift to target alignment. In general, braces are painful for patients with sensitive gums. If gum sensitivity is suspected, you will receive the necessary treatment to reduce and address discomfort.
Periodontist - Special interest in digital dental implants and root recession coverage
Dr. Hu Cidong graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and subsequently completed his Master's in Dental Surgery (Periodontology) at NUS.
Orthodontist - Special Interest In Invisalign And Growth Modulation
Dr Ivan Prabowo graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from NUS in 2008. He honed his skills in government polyclinics and hospitals before embarking on his orthodontics residency, supported by the Alexandra Health scholarship.
General Dentist - Creative Smile Design and Aesthetics
Dr Kayla Toh graduated with the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S.) from the National University of Singapore. She was awarded the IFDEA Medal for being the best student in Paediatric Dentistry. She is also the recipient of the 1st runner up-prize for the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme.
General Dentist - Your All-in-one Family Dentist
Dr. Yuan graduated from NUS with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. She has amassed a wealth of experience working in government institutions such as polyclinics, the National Dental Centre, the Institute of Mental Health, and Tan Tock Seng Hospital, as well as nearly 10 years of experience in the private sector.
Orthodontic Resident - Special Interest In Invisalign And Aesthetic Dentistry
Dr Carla Andreina graduated from the University of Glasgow (UK) with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree and was awarded the Head of College Scholars’ List for her achievements. She went on to pursue her passion in teeth straightening and is undergoing her Masters degree in Orthodontics in the National University of Singapore (NUS), while also honing her skills in clear aligner techniques through mini residency structured programmes.
Paediatric Specialist - Tooth Fairy To Your Child; With Special Interest In Nitrous Sedation And Early Orthodontics
Dr Sulin Quak graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from NUS and was awarded the IFDEA Prize as the best student in Paediatric Dentistry upon graduation. With a keen interest in children's dentistry, Dr Quak further pursued a full-time Masters degree in paediatric dentistry, where upon completion, she emerged top in her cohort and was awarded the Medal and Prize for Best Student in the final Masters of Dental Surgery examination.
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Setting up your child’s dental hygiene routine does not need to be too complicated, and you can adopt five simple yet effective ways to help them avoid cavities.
When it comes to maintaining and improving children’s dental health, paying attention to nutrition and diet can be just as important as good brushing habits. Choosing teeth-healthy foods helps provide…
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