Dental answers, made clearer
Clear, concise answers to common dental questions—written for people who want the essential information first.
Most braces treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, though more complex cases involving significant crowding or bite correction can take longer. The exact duration depends on the severity of the misalignment and how consistently adjustment appointments are kept.
Read the answerFitting braces itself isn't painful, but it's common to feel soreness or pressure for a few days afterward, and again after each adjustment visit as the teeth respond to the new force. This discomfort is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief, and it typically fades within a week.
Read the answerMost orthodontic treatment for children starts between ages 10 and 14, once most permanent teeth have come in, though some alignment issues are monitored and addressed earlier through interceptive treatment. A dentist can assess during a routine checkup whether a child's bite and jaw development call for earlier intervention or if it's better to wait.
Read the answerIn most cases, no, since braces are generally classified as elective orthodontic treatment rather than a medical necessity under Medisave rules. There are limited exceptions, such as when a related surgical procedure like tooth extraction or jaw surgery is medically required as part of the treatment, so it's best to confirm eligibility directly with the clinic before assuming coverage either way.
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