What Is the Correct Age for Braces?

Whether $5,000 is expensive depends on what the price includes and how complex your treatment is. The main things that change the cost of braces are:

• Type of braces. Metal braces, self-ligating braces and Invisalign® clear aligners are made and fitted differently, so each is priced differently.
• Complexity. Severe crowding or bite problems usually need longer, more involved treatment.
• Treatment length. More months of treatment means more adjustment visits.
• Retainers after treatment. Your plan explains which retainers you need.

At Best Dentist in Al Rigga, braces start from AED 499. The final price is confirmed in writing after your orthodontic assessment, before treatment starts. Self-ligating braces and Invisalign® are priced after the assessment. See all our prices.

You can pay with Tabby in 4 interest-free payments, subject to Tabby approval, or spread the cost with Tamara. We can also check whether your dental insurance covers orthodontic treatment.

They can. When braces come off, teeth naturally try to drift back towards their old position. This is called relapse.

Teeth can also shift slowly over the years as part of normal ageing, even long after treatment has finished.

Retainers are what hold your result. Wearing your retainers as instructed, for as long as your orthodontist advises, keeps your teeth in their new position. If a retainer is lost, damaged or no longer fits, contact us so we can check it.

Most people can be assessed for orthodontic treatment. Some things may need attention before braces are fitted, rather than ruling treatment out:

• Gum disease. Gums need to be healthy before teeth are moved.
• Oral hygiene. Braces make cleaning harder, so good daily brushing comes first.
• Tooth decay. Cavities and other dental problems are usually treated first.
• Other clinical factors. Your jaw, bite and general health are checked at your assessment.

At your orthodontic assessment, our Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Deepthi Chandran Rajeesh, checks your teeth and gums and explains whether you are ready for braces or what needs to happen first.

There is no single best age. The right time to start braces depends on how the teeth and jaw are developing, the type of bite problem and an individual assessment by the orthodontist.

Many children and teenagers start treatment once most of their adult teeth have come through, but some bite problems are best treated earlier, and others can wait.

Braces are not only for children. Adults can have orthodontic treatment too, as long as their teeth and gums are healthy. Invisalign® clear aligners are a less visible option many adults choose.

Most 7 year olds do not need braces. An orthodontic check from around age 7 is still worthwhile, because it can spot bite problems while the jaw is developing.

If a problem is found, the orthodontist explains whether to treat it now or simply monitor it. Treatment only starts when the timing is right for your child.

There is no single score, because everyone feels braces differently. Most people describe pressure and soreness rather than sharp pain.

Teeth usually feel most sore for the first few days after braces are fitted, and a milder soreness can come back for a day or two after adjustment visits. Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed, and orthodontic wax over a bracket that rubs usually help.

If pain is severe or does not settle, or a bracket breaks or a wire pokes, message us on WhatsApp for advice and to arrange an appointment. Please do not try to adjust or remove it yourself.