Braces

Braces help correct a wide range of dental issues, such as crooked, gapped, crowded or misaligned teeth. There are several types of braces—metal, ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, clear aligners—each with their advantages. With the right braces, you can improve dental function, appearance, and long-term oral health.

Your journey to a better smile starts with braces

What are braces?
Types of braces
How do braces work?
Benefits / Risks
Braces treatment duration
Braces Consultation Journey
Recovery & Outlook
Maintenance & Long-Term Care
When to Call Your Dentist
How Much Are Braces in Singapore?
FAQ’s

Are you a student or NSF looking to start your Braces journey?

$ 4,200 NETT

Initial consultation with our orthodontist*
Orthodontic records (X-rays & photos)
Bracket bonding & full braces treatment
Take-home braces starter kit
1 set of retainers after treatment

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🛣️ Your Treatment Journey

Here’s what to expect at each stage:

Consultation & Records – meet our dentist, take X-rays & photos
Bonding Session – brackets fixed, first wire placed
Monthly Visits – tightening, adjustments & any additional X-rays needed
Post-Treatment Care – receive your retainers and smile with confidence

⭐️ Flexible Payment Plan Available

WeSmile makes your braces journey affordable with staged payments:

First visit (consultation + Orthodontic records): $128 nett
Bonding appointment: $1,500 down payment
Subsequent visits: $150 per session (till completion of outstanding payment)

Or choose to pay in full if you prefer.

*Your first consultation ($128 nett) will be counted as part of the total braces fee if you choose to begin treatment. If not, it will simply remain a one-time consultation & orthodontics records charge.

What are braces for?

Braces are devices used to gradually align teeth and correct bite issues (malocclusion). They are prescribed for conditions including:

Crooked or rotated teeth

Teeth that grow at an angle or are rotated out of position can make cleaning more difficult and may affect the appearance of your smile. Braces gradually guide these teeth into proper alignment, improving both function and aesthetics over time.

Gaps / spacing between teeth

Spaces between teeth may occur naturally or after tooth loss. These gaps can trap food, affect bite function, and make some people feel self-conscious about their smile. Braces help to close gaps by gently moving teeth into a more even and balanced position.

Crowding (too many teeth for available space)

When there isn’t enough room in the jaw for all teeth to fit comfortably, they can overlap or twist. Crowding not only affects appearance but also makes it harder to brush and floss properly. Braces work by creating space and aligning teeth so they sit neatly side by side.

Overbite, underbite, crossbite

These bite issues occur when the upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly. They may lead to uneven wear, jaw strain, or difficulties in chewing. Braces and other orthodontic options can help to bring the bite into better balance, improving function as well as overall oral health.

Both younger patients (teens) and adults benefit from braces. Though treatment in adults may take a little longer due to less bone plasticity, successful outcomes are common.

Types of braces

Different braces suit different preferences, budgets, and dental needs:

Metal braces

Traditional stainless steel brackets and wires. Durable and effective.

Ceramic braces

Tooth-coloured brackets that blend with teeth; more aesthetic but more fragile.

Self-ligating braces

Use built-in clips instead of elastic bands; may reduce friction, aid cleaning.

Lingual braces

Attached behind the teeth, hidden from view; may affect speech, require adaptation.

Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign)

Removable, transparent trays; nearly invisible, but need discipline (wearing them enough hours daily).

How do braces work?

Braces work by applying gentle, continual pressure over time. This pressure moves teeth through bone remodelling (bone resorption and deposition). The speed of movement depends on factors like severity of misalignment, the type of braces, age, and oral health.

Benefits / Risks of Braces

Benefits of Braces

Straighter teeth, improved bite alignment
Enhanced appearance and confidence
Easier cleaning: less crowding and better access for brushing/flossing
Reduction in risk of decay, gum disease and abnormal wear on teeth
Improved function: chewing, speech, jaw comfort

Potential Risks or Side Effects of Braces

Mild discomfort or soreness after fitting or tightening
Irritation of lips, cheeks or tongue from brackets/wires
Difficulty eating certain foods initially
Possible speech changes with lingual braces or when first using braces/aligners
Risk of relapse (teeth shifting back) if retainers are not used properly

Braces Treatment Duration

⏱️ How long does braces treatment take?

Braces: Usually 12–24 months, depending on complexity.

Clear Aligners: Around 12 months for mild to moderate cases; complex cases may take up to 18 months.

Treatment time depends on your age, dental condition, and how well you follow care instructions (especially wearing retainers after treatment).

Initial Check-up

Dental exam to assess teeth and bite, plus a chat about goals. No x-rays/photos taken unless you proceed with treatment.

Plan & Explain

Receive a clear plan with personalised options, transparent pricing, and a timeline tailored to your needs and goals.

Ask & Clarify

Your chance to ask questions, address concerns, and feel confident before moving forward — then begin with the agreed treatment plan.

Scan & Begin

Monitor progress with photos or scans to ensure treatment is on track – We monitor progress to ensure treatment is on track.

Braces Recovery & Outlook

Early Braces Recovery Phase

Usually the first few days: sensitivity, mild pain, tightness. Soft foods (e.g. mashed potatoes, soups, yoghurt) recommended.
Lips or cheeks may rub against brackets; orthodontic wax can help.
Speech may feel unusual for a few days or weeks, especially with lingual braces or new appliances.

Managing Braces Discomfort

Over-the-counter pain relief (e.g. paracetamol) as advised
Use of orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges or irritating brackets

Eating & Oral Care During Braces Treatment

Soft diet initially; avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods throughout treatment
Brush after meals; use soft-bristle brush
Floss daily; use floss threaders or interdental brushes
For clear aligners: remove for eating, clean trays, brush/floss teeth before re-inserting

Outlook for Braces Treatment Completion

Most patients reach their desired alignment within the treatment timeline, provided they attend appointments and follow care guidance.
After braces are removed, retention phase begins (see below) — this is essential in keeping the results.

Braces Maintenance & Long-Term Care

Retention Phase of Braces

Once braces are removed:

You’ll be fitted with a retainer, either fixed (bonded) or removable.
For removable retainers: often full-time wear at first, gradually reducing to nights only.
Fixed retainers stay permanently (or long-term), but still require cleaning.

Daily Maintenance of Braces

Continue brushing at least twice daily and flossing once daily.
Use antibacterial mouthwash (alcohol-free) to help reduce plaque around brackets or retainer wires.
Maintain regular dental check-ups (cleaning & examinations every 6 months or as advised).

Lifestyle Habits with Braces

Avoid nail-biting, chewing hard objects (e.g. pens), or using teeth as tools.
If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), use a night guard if recommended.
Protects results by following all advice on retainer use and diet.

When to Call Your Dentist About Your Braces

Pain that does not subside with standard pain relief after several days
Brackets become loose or wires break / poke into soft tissues
Swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection in gums, lips or cheeks
Trauma to mouth or face
Retainer does not fit or is causing discomfort

How much do braces cost in Singapore?

Braces can feel expensive but the cost covers the entire treatment period of
12 to 18 months. As with all dental treatments, braces are customised to meet the patient’s needs. You can expect your braces to cost somewhere in the ranges shown below:

– Metal Braces: $4,500 – $6,500+

– Ceramic Braces: $5,000 -$6,500+

– Self Ligating Braces: $5,800 – $7,300+

– Lingual Braces: $5,000 – $13,000+

For more information about our prices as well as other services, you can refer to our comprehensive price list here.

💳 Payment options:

At WeSmile Dental, we offer flexible instalment plans , making braces treatment more manageable. While braces are generally not MediSave claimable as they’re considered elective), we ensure transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

FAQs on Braces in Singapore

Do braces hurt?

Some mild discomfort or soreness is expected after braces are first placed or following adjustments, since your teeth are gradually shifting. This sensation typically eases within a few days. Always follow your orthodontist’s care instructions, and if pain is severe or persists, seek professional advice — you should not assume any device or treatment is entirely risk-free.

Can braces change your face shape?

Braces can influence how your lips and cheeks are supported due to changes in tooth alignment, which might result in subtle cosmetic differences in your facial soft tissues. However, they do not alter the bone structure of your jaw or skull. Any claims suggesting otherwise should be backed by clinical evidence — unverified promises of drastic facial changes are not permitted under HSA guidelines.

Can your teeth shift back after braces?

Yes — relapse is possible if you do not adhere to retainer use as prescribed. Proper retention is vital to maintaining your results. It’s important to note that no treatment can guarantee results will last permanently without ongoing care, so avoid assuming braces alone will “lock in” your smile forever.

Do I have to floss with braces?

Yes — flossing becomes even more crucial during orthodontic treatment. Use floss threaders, interdental brushes, or orthodontic-specific floss to clean around brackets and wires. Good oral hygiene helps reduce the risk of cavities, staining, and gum issues. Devices and treatments are not a substitute for daily care, so it is essential to keep up with proper brushing and flossing.

Does getting your braces off hurt?

Bracket removal is generally quick and causes minimal discomfort. You may feel light pressure or a brief tug when the attachments are detached, but this is usually well tolerated. If any sensitivity lingers afterwards, your orthodontist can guide you on simple ways to care for your teeth and gums.