Braces and Orthodontic Treatment in Rangsit, Pathum Thani

Orthodontic treatment uses braces, clear aligners or other appliances to move teeth gradually and improve their alignment and bite.

Braces may be considered for crowded teeth, gaps, protruding teeth, rotated teeth, deep bite, open bite, crossbite and other orthodontic concerns.

However, treatment is not based only on making the front teeth appear straighter. The dentist or orthodontist must also assess how the upper and lower teeth meet, the position of the tooth roots, gum and bone support, facial proportions and long-term stability.

Some alignment problems can be treated with fixed braces. Others may be suitable for Invisalign clear aligners. Significant skeletal jaw discrepancies may require combined orthodontic and jaw surgery planning.

The most appropriate treatment can only be determined after an orthodontic examination and diagnostic records.

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is the area of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of irregular tooth position and bite relationships.

Orthodontic appliances apply controlled forces to teeth over time. As the teeth respond, the surrounding bone and supporting tissues gradually remodel.

Treatment may aim to:

• Align crowded or rotated teeth
• Close or manage spaces
• Improve the relationship between the upper and lower teeth
• Correct selected bite problems
• Create space for missing-tooth replacement
• Prepare teeth for veneers, crowns, bridges or implants
• Improve access for brushing and cleaning
• Reduce excessive forces on selected teeth
• Coordinate the bite before corrective jaw surgery
• Improve smile balance within the limits of the patient’s anatomy

Orthodontic treatment does not create the same result for every patient. The planned movements and expected limitations depend on the original condition, age, gum and bone health, jaw relationship and individual biological response.

What Problems May Braces Treat?

Fixed braces may be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic problems.

Crowded teeth

Crowding occurs when there is not enough space for the teeth to align normally.

Teeth may overlap, rotate, erupt outside the dental arch or remain partly blocked.

Treatment options may involve:

• Expanding or developing the dental arch
• Moving teeth into available space
• Interproximal reduction
• Moving back teeth
• Removing selected teeth
• A combination of methods

The appropriate method depends on the amount of crowding, facial profile, gum and bone limits, age and bite relationship.

Gaps between teeth

Spaces may occur because of:

• Small teeth
• Missing teeth
• Tooth-size differences
• Gum attachment between the front teeth
• Tongue habits
• Tooth position
• Gum and bone loss
• Previous extraction
• Relapse after earlier orthodontic treatment

Closing a gap without identifying its cause may increase the chance of the space reopening.

Some patients may need orthodontics combined with restorative treatment such as dental veneers, crowns or implants to improve tooth proportions or replace missing teeth.

Protruding front teeth

Upper or lower front teeth may appear prominent because of tooth inclination, jaw position or a combination of both.

Orthodontic treatment may change the position and angle of the teeth. The expected effect on the lips and facial profile depends on the original anatomy and treatment plan.

A prominent jaw or significant skeletal discrepancy may not be corrected fully by braces alone.

Deep bite

A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than expected.

In some patients, the lower front teeth may contact the palate or gum behind the upper teeth. Other patients may have tooth wear or difficulty maintaining stable front-tooth contact.

Treatment depends on the position of the front teeth, back teeth, jaw relationship and facial growth pattern.

Open bite

An open bite occurs when selected upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.

Possible contributing factors include:

• Skeletal growth pattern
• Tooth position
• Tongue posture
• Oral habits
• Previous tooth loss
• Relapse after treatment

Mild dental open bites and significant skeletal open bites may require different treatment approaches.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.

It may affect:

• Front teeth
• Back teeth
• One side of the mouth
• Both sides
• A single tooth
• Several teeth

Treatment depends on whether the problem comes mainly from tooth position, arch width, jaw position or a combination.

Increased overjet

Increased overjet refers to a larger horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth.

It may be related to protruding upper teeth, a recessed lower jaw, oral habits or a combination of factors.

Not every increased overjet requires jaw surgery. The orthodontic team must first determine whether the discrepancy is mainly dental or skeletal.

Underbite

An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth.

A mild dental underbite may sometimes be treated orthodontically. A more significant skeletal underbite may require coordinated planning for orthognathic jaw surgery.

Ectopic or blocked-out teeth

A permanent tooth may erupt outside its expected position because of limited space, an obstruction or an unusual eruption path.

The dentist may need to evaluate:

• Available space
• Tooth position
• Root position
• Adjacent teeth
• Retained baby teeth
• Impacted teeth
• Possible surgical exposure

The treatment plan depends on the individual tooth and surrounding structures.

Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment

Teeth can move after braces or aligner treatment, particularly when retainers are not worn as advised.

Depending on the extent of movement, treatment may involve:

• Retainer adjustment
• A short course of fixed braces
• Clear aligners
• Comprehensive orthodontic retreatment
• Management of a new dental or gum problem

The complete bite should be assessed rather than aligning only the teeth that appear crooked.

Who May Be Suitable for Braces?

Fixed braces may be considered for teenagers and adults who:

• Have crowded, spaced or rotated teeth
• Have a bite problem requiring orthodontic correction
• Need detailed control of several tooth movements
• Prefer an appliance that remains attached to the teeth
• Can maintain appropriate oral hygiene
• Can attend regular adjustment appointments
• Have healthy or appropriately treated teeth and gums
• Understand that treatment requires long-term retention
• Are willing to follow food and appliance-care instructions

Age alone does not determine whether braces can be used.

Adults can undergo orthodontic treatment when their teeth, gums and supporting bone are suitable. Adult treatment may require additional planning when there are missing teeth, gum recession, previous root canal treatment, crowns, bridges or dental implants.

Who May Need Dental Treatment Before Braces?

Orthodontic treatment may need to be delayed when a patient has:

• Untreated tooth decay
• Active gum disease
• Poor oral hygiene
• Significant plaque or tartar
• Dental infection
• Loose teeth
• Uncontrolled gum bleeding
• Broken or leaking fillings
• Teeth with an uncertain prognosis
• Uncontrolled medical conditions
• Expectations that cannot be achieved predictably

Patients with plaque or tartar may need teeth cleaning before braces are fitted.

Those with gum inflammation or loss of supporting tissues may require gum treatment and continued periodontal monitoring.

A painful or infected tooth may need a filling, root canal treatment, crown or extraction before orthodontic movement begins.

Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic appliances can be fixed or removable. The appropriate type depends on the problem being treated, the required movements and patient cooperation.

Conventional Metal Braces

Conventional braces use brackets bonded to the teeth and an orthodontic wire held in place with small elastic or metal ties.

The wire applies planned forces to guide tooth movement. Different wire sizes, shapes and materials may be used during different treatment stages.

Potential advantages include:

• The appliance remains attached to the teeth
• Several teeth can be controlled at the same time
• It can be used for a broad range of orthodontic problems
• The dentist can adjust the wire and auxiliaries during treatment
• Coloured elastic ties may be available for patients who prefer them

Considerations include:

• Brackets and wires are visible
• Cleaning requires additional time
• Food may become trapped around the appliance
• Elastic ties can stain or collect plaque
• Brackets or wires may occasionally loosen or break
• Some food restrictions are necessary

Conventional braces should not be described as requiring no patient cooperation. Patients still need to maintain oral hygiene, protect the appliance, attend appointments and wear elastics when prescribed.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating brackets use an integrated clip or door to hold the orthodontic wire rather than relying on elastic ties for every bracket.

They are still fixed braces and work through the same general biological process of orthodontic tooth movement.

Possible differences may include:

• A built-in mechanism for holding the wire
• No elastic ligature around many brackets
• Different appointment procedures
• A different appearance depending on the bracket system

Self-ligating braces should not be promoted as automatically faster, less painful, extraction-free or superior for every patient.

Treatment duration and comfort depend mainly on the orthodontic problem, planned movement, biological response, appliance condition and patient cooperation.

Ceramic or Tooth-Coloured Braces

Ceramic braces use brackets designed to be less visually noticeable than conventional metal brackets.

They may be considered for patients who prefer a more discreet fixed appliance but still require bracket-and-wire treatment.

Considerations may include:

• Brackets may still be visible
• The orthodontic wire may remain visible
• Some components can stain
• Ceramic brackets may require different handling
• They may not be recommended for every tooth or bite relationship
• Treatment fees may differ from metal braces

Availability and suitability should be confirmed during consultation.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable appliances that fit over the teeth and are changed according to a planned sequence.

They may provide a more discreet option and can be removed for meals and cleaning. However, they require consistent daily wear and responsible handling.

Clear aligners may still involve:

• Tooth-coloured attachments
• Elastics
• Interproximal reduction
• Tooth extraction
• Additional aligner stages
• Regular clinical monitoring

Patients considering removable treatment can read more on the Invisalign Clear Aligner page.

Removable Orthodontic Appliances

Removable appliances may be used for selected movements, arch development, habit correction, retention or treatment during growth.

They are not usually interchangeable with comprehensive fixed braces.

The appliance can only work when it is worn according to the prescribed schedule. Suitability depends on the type of movement required and the patient’s ability to manage the appliance.

Braces vs Invisalign

Topic	Fixed braces	Invisalign clear aligners
Appliance	Brackets and wires remain attached to the teeth	Removable transparent aligners
Appearance	Visible; ceramic options may be less noticeable	Generally discreet, although attachments may be visible
Eating	Some hard, sticky or chewy foods may need to be avoided	Aligners are removed before eating
Cleaning	Requires cleaning around brackets and wires	Aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing
Cooperation	Requires appliance care, appointment attendance and elastic wear when prescribed	Requires consistent daily wear and responsible handling
Loss	Main appliance cannot normally be lost	Aligners can be lost or accidentally discarded
Breakage	Brackets and wires may loosen or break	Aligners may crack, distort or stop fitting
Tooth movement	Can provide detailed fixed-appliance control	Can treat many cases with appropriate planning and auxiliaries
Monitoring	Regular adjustment and review are required	Regular fit and progress reviews are required
Treatment time	Depends on complexity and biological response	Depends on complexity, wear time and biological response

Neither treatment is universally better.

Braces may be suitable when the treating dentist prefers fixed-appliance control or where consistent aligner wear may be difficult.

Clear aligners may suit a patient who prioritises removability and discretion and can follow the prescribed wear schedule.

The decision should be based on diagnosis rather than appearance alone.

Orthodontic Examination Before Braces

Before confirming treatment, the dentist or orthodontist will review the patient’s concerns, dental history and medical history.

Patients should inform the dental team about:

• Current medicines
• Drug allergies
• Previous orthodontic treatment
• Previous jaw or facial injury
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Jaw-joint symptoms
• Previous root canal treatment
• Dental implants
• Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
• Medical conditions affecting bone or healing
• Smoking, vaping or tobacco use

Clinical examination

The orthodontic assessment may include:

• Tooth alignment
• Bite relationship
• Amount of crowding or spacing
• Facial proportions
• Lip position
• Smile display
• Jaw movement
• Gum condition
• Tooth mobility
• Tooth wear
• Missing or impacted teeth
• Existing fillings, crowns and implants
• Oral hygiene

Photographs and digital scans

Facial and intraoral photographs may be used to record the starting condition.

A digital scan or dental model may help analyse:

• Tooth position
• Dental arch shape
• Available space
• Bite contacts
• Tooth-size relationships
• Proposed treatment movements

Dental X-rays

Orthodontic imaging may include:

• Panoramic X-ray
• Cephalometric X-ray
• Additional dental X-rays
• Three-dimensional imaging when clinically indicated

Imaging helps evaluate the tooth roots, developing teeth, supporting bone and jaw relationships.

Advanced three-dimensional imaging is not required for every braces patient. The type of imaging should be selected according to the individual diagnostic need.

Patients can learn more about available imaging on the 3D Digital X-ray Center page.

Braces Treatment Process at SWC Dental

1. Initial orthodontic consultation

The dentist discusses the patient’s concerns and treatment priorities.

The initial assessment helps determine whether the problem may be suitable for:

• Fixed braces
• Clear aligners
• A removable appliance
• Growth-related orthodontic treatment
• Orthodontics combined with restorative care
• Orthodontics combined with jaw surgery

2. Dental health preparation

Before fitting braces, active dental and gum problems should normally be treated.

Preparation may include:

• Teeth cleaning
• Improved brushing and interdental cleaning
• Dental fillings
• Gum treatment
• Root canal treatment
• Repair of damaged restorations
• Wisdom tooth assessment
• Extraction of selected teeth when appropriate

Not every patient needs all these procedures.

3. Diagnostic records and treatment planning

The dentist reviews the clinical examination, photographs, scans and imaging.

The proposed plan may discuss:

• Main orthodontic diagnosis
• Treatment objectives
• Type of appliance
• Whether extraction is being considered
• Whether IPR or expansion may be used
• Possible elastics
• Possible Temporary Anchorage Devices
• Expected limitations
• Estimated treatment duration
• Appointment schedule
• Estimated treatment fee
• Retainer requirements

4. Fitting the braces

The teeth are cleaned and prepared before the brackets are bonded.

An orthodontic wire is placed and secured according to the bracket system.

Patients receive instructions about:

• Cleaning around braces
• Food choices
• Managing initial soreness
• Protecting the appliance
• What to do if a bracket or wire causes a problem
• When to return for review

5. Regular adjustment appointments

During follow-up appointments, the dentist may:

• Check tooth movement
• Assess gum health and oral hygiene
• Change or adjust the wire
• Replace elastic ties
• Add springs or other auxiliaries
• Prescribe orthodontic elastics
• Repair loose components
• Review treatment progress

Appointment frequency depends on the appliance, treatment stage and clinical findings.

6. Bite finishing

As the teeth approach the planned positions, treatment focuses on:

• Detailed alignment
• Root positioning
• Contact between upper and lower teeth
• Closing or coordinating spaces
• Improving bite stability
• Adjusting elastics
• Preparing for braces removal

The appearance of straight front teeth does not always mean that treatment is complete.

7. Removal of braces

When the treatment objectives have been reached within the agreed limitations, the brackets and bonding material are removed.

The dentist checks the teeth, gums and bite and may take new records.

8. Retainers

Retainers are provided to help maintain the new tooth positions.

Teeth can move after orthodontic treatment because the surrounding tissues continue to adapt and because natural changes can occur over time.

The type and wear schedule depend on the original problem, treatment performed and risk of relapse.

How Long Do Braces Take?

There is no single braces treatment duration that applies to every patient.

The timeline depends on:

• Severity of crowding or spacing
• Complexity of the bite
• Distance the teeth need to move
• Root position
• Need for extraction
• Need for jaw surgery
• Gum and bone health
• Age and growth
• Appliance breakage
• Missed appointments
• Elastic wear
• Individual biological response
• Need for additional treatment stages

An estimated duration can be discussed after diagnostic records are completed.

The estimate may change if teeth move differently from the plan, appointments are missed or the appliance is repeatedly damaged.

Do Braces Hurt?

Braces should not be promoted as painless.

Patients may experience pressure, tenderness or soreness after:

• The braces are first fitted
• A new wire is placed
• An adjustment is made
• Elastics are introduced
• Selected teeth begin a new movement

The cheeks or lips may also become irritated while adapting to the brackets.

Discomfort often changes as the mouth adapts, but intensity varies between patients and treatment stages.

Contact the clinic if there is:

• Severe or increasing pain
• Significant swelling
• A wire cutting the cheek
• A loose bracket causing injury
• A damaged appliance
• Pain from a specific tooth that does not improve
• Signs of infection
• Difficulty closing the teeth normally after an appliance problem

Eating with Braces

Fixed braces remain on the teeth during meals.

Patients may need to avoid or modify foods that can damage brackets and wires, including:

• Hard sweets
• Ice
• Hard nuts
• Popcorn kernels
• Very sticky sweets
• Chewing gum when restricted
• Hard crusts
• Biting directly into hard fruit
• Biting pens or other objects

Hard fruit and vegetables may be cut into smaller pieces rather than bitten directly with the front teeth.

The exact food instructions depend on the appliance. Patients should follow the advice provided by the treating dental team.

Cleaning Teeth with Braces

Brackets and wires create additional areas where plaque and food can collect.

Patients should clean carefully around:

• The gum line
• Above and below each bracket
• Under the orthodontic wire
• Between the teeth
• Around bands and attachments

Useful cleaning tools may include:

• A soft toothbrush
• An orthodontic toothbrush
• Interdental brushes
• Floss threaders
• Super floss
• Other tools recommended by the dental team

Poor plaque control during braces treatment may contribute to:

• Gum inflammation
• Bleeding gums
• Tooth decay
• White marks or enamel demineralisation
• Bad breath
• Delayed treatment
• The need to pause or remove the appliance in severe cases

Removable and fixed orthodontic retainers also require appropriate cleaning after active treatment.

What Are Orthodontic Elastics?

Orthodontic elastics may be connected between selected upper and lower brackets to help change the bite relationship.

They must be worn according to the dentist’s instructions.

Inconsistent elastic wear may:

• Slow treatment
• Produce uneven movement
• Reduce bite correction
• Extend the treatment timeline
• Require changes to the plan

Patients should not double the number of elastics or change the attachment points independently.

Temporary Anchorage Devices

Temporary Anchorage Devices, or TADs, are small temporary screws placed in the bone to provide an additional anchorage point for orthodontic tooth movement.

They may be considered when the dentist needs to move selected teeth while reducing unwanted movement of other teeth.

TADs are not necessary for every braces patient.

Their use depends on:

• Movement required
• Bone availability
• Nearby tooth roots
• Gum condition
• Oral hygiene
• Medical history
• Alternative treatment options

Local anaesthesia may be used during placement.

Patients may feel pressure during the procedure and temporary soreness afterward. The experience varies, and treatment should not be described as completely painless.

Possible concerns include:

• Irritation
• Gum inflammation
• Loosening
• Failure of the device
• Contact with nearby structures
• Need for repositioning or removal

TADs should be monitored and cleaned according to the orthodontist’s instructions.

Do Braces Require Tooth Extraction?

Not every braces patient needs teeth removed.

Extraction may be considered when there is:

• Severe crowding
• Significant protrusion
• An unfavourable tooth-size relationship
• A tooth with a poor prognosis
• A retained baby tooth
• An impacted or additional tooth
• A treatment objective that requires substantial space

Alternatives may include expansion, IPR, moving the back teeth or accepting a different treatment objective.

The decision should consider:

• Facial profile
• Tooth inclination
• Amount of crowding
• Gum and bone limits
• Jaw relationship
• Long-term stability
• Patient preference

When removal is appropriate, patients can read more about tooth extraction.

Wisdom teeth should not automatically be removed simply because braces are planned. Impacted third molars require a separate wisdom tooth assessment.

Can Braces Change the Face?

Orthodontic tooth movement can affect the smile, lip support and the relationship between the teeth.

The visible effect depends on:

• Original tooth position
• Tooth inclination
• Amount of crowding
• Space creation
• Extraction or non-extraction plan
• Jaw relationship
• Facial soft tissues
• Growth
• Treatment objectives

Braces cannot fully reposition an adult jawbone.

Patients with a significant skeletal underbite, overbite, open bite or facial asymmetry may require assessment for orthognathic surgery.

Treatment should not guarantee a particular face shape, jawline or profile.

Braces and Jaw-Joint Symptoms

Some patients with orthodontic concerns also experience jaw clicking, muscle discomfort or limited opening.

These symptoms may have several causes.

Braces should not be promoted as a guaranteed treatment for headaches, neck pain or temporomandibular disorders.

Patients with significant jaw-joint or muscle symptoms may require a separate TMD assessment before or during orthodontic planning.

Retainers After Braces

Retention is an essential stage of orthodontic treatment.

Possible retainer types include:

Clear removable retainer

A clear retainer fits over the teeth and can be removed for eating and cleaning.

It must be worn according to the prescribed schedule and kept in its case when not in use.

Hawley retainer

A Hawley retainer combines an acrylic base with a metal wire across the teeth.

It is removable and may be adjusted in selected situations.

Fixed or bonded retainer

A thin wire is bonded behind selected teeth.

Because it remains attached, it does not rely on remembering to insert it. However, it requires careful cleaning and regular checking.

A fixed retainer can loosen or break and should not be assumed to last permanently without maintenance.

Some patients may use both fixed and removable retainers.

The retainer type and wear schedule are individual decisions. Failure to follow the retention plan increases the likelihood of tooth movement after treatment.

What If a Bracket or Wire Breaks?

Contact SWC Dental for advice when:

• A bracket becomes loose
• A wire moves or breaks
• A wire is cutting the cheek
• A band feels loose
• An elastic hook breaks
• A retainer breaks or no longer fits
• The appliance causes significant injury

Do not cut or pull an orthodontic wire unless specifically instructed.

Orthodontic wax may provide temporary protection from a sharp area while waiting for professional advice, but it does not repair the appliance.

Braces for Teenagers

Braces may be recommended during the teenage years because many permanent teeth have erupted and growth can still be assessed.

Teenage treatment may address:

• Crowding
• Spacing
• Protruding teeth
• Bite problems
• Ectopic eruption
• Impacted teeth
• Jaw-growth concerns

Treatment success still depends on:

• Oral hygiene
• Appointment attendance
• Appliance care
• Elastic wear
• Retainer use
• Family and patient cooperation

A child or teenager does not automatically need immediate braces simply because teeth appear uneven. The timing should be based on development, diagnosis and treatment objectives.

Braces for Adults

Adults may consider braces for:

• Teeth that were never previously aligned
• Relapse after earlier treatment
• Bite correction
• Preparation for implants or bridges
• Space management
• Alignment before veneers or crowns
• Uneven tooth wear
• Crowding associated with cleaning difficulty

Adult treatment may require coordination with restorative, periodontal or implant care.

Existing crowns, root canal-treated teeth and implants do not automatically prevent orthodontic treatment, but they can affect the treatment plan.

Dental implants do not move like natural teeth and must be planned carefully when orthodontic space is being created or closed.

Braces in Rangsit at SWC Dental

SWC Dental provides orthodontic assessment and braces treatment for patients in Rangsit, Pathum Thani and nearby areas, including Thanyaburi, Khlong Luang, Lam Luk Ka and Don Mueang.

The orthodontic process begins with an examination of the teeth, gums, bite and facial proportions.

Depending on the individual case, the dentist may discuss:

• Conventional metal braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Ceramic braces where available
• Invisalign clear aligners
• Extraction or non-extraction planning
• Temporary Anchorage Devices
• Orthodontics combined with restorative treatment
• Orthodontics combined with jaw surgery
• Retainer options

Before treatment begins, patients should receive information about:

• Diagnosis
• Treatment objectives
• Appliance options
• Expected limitations
• Estimated duration
• Appointment schedule
• Oral-hygiene requirements
• Possible extraction or additional procedures
• Retainer requirements
• Individual treatment fees

The final result, number of appointments and treatment duration vary according to the original condition, biological response and cooperation throughout treatment.

Patients can meet the SWC Dental team, view the dental treatment prices or contact SWC Dental to arrange an orthodontic assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces

What is the best age to get braces?

There is no single best age for every patient. Treatment timing depends on tooth development, jaw growth, bite problem and treatment objectives. Adults can also receive braces when their oral health is suitable.

Do all crooked teeth need braces?

No. Minor irregularities may not require treatment, while other patients may be suitable for clear aligners or another appliance. A clinical assessment is needed to determine whether treatment would provide a meaningful benefit.

How long do braces take?

Treatment time depends on the complexity of the bite, amount of movement, extraction requirements, missed appointments, appliance breakage and biological response. An individual estimate can be provided after diagnostic records.

Are self-ligating braces faster?

Not necessarily. The bracket type alone does not determine total treatment time. Complexity, planned movements, biology, appointment attendance and cooperation all affect the timeline.

Are braces painful?

Braces may cause temporary pressure, soreness or irritation, particularly after fitting or adjustments. Severe or worsening pain should be assessed by the clinic.

Can I eat normally with braces?

Many foods can still be eaten, but hard, sticky or chewy foods may damage the appliance. Some foods should be cut into smaller pieces rather than bitten directly.

How often are braces adjusted?

The review schedule depends on the appliance and treatment stage. The treating dentist will determine how frequently appointments are required.

Do braces cause tooth decay?

Braces do not directly cause decay, but plaque can collect around brackets and wires. Inadequate cleaning and frequent sugar exposure increase the risk of cavities and white marks.

Do I need teeth removed before braces?

Not every patient needs an extraction. The decision depends on crowding, tooth position, facial profile, jaw relationship, gum and bone limits and treatment goals.

Can braces fix an underbite?

Some dental underbites may be treated with orthodontics. Significant skeletal underbites may require combined orthodontic and jaw-surgery planning.

Are braces better than Invisalign?

Neither option is best for everyone. Braces offer a fixed appliance, while Invisalign offers removable aligners that require consistent wear. Suitability depends on diagnosis, lifestyle and treatment mechanics.

Will braces change my jawline?

Braces move teeth but do not fully reposition an adult jawbone. Changes in tooth position can affect lip support and smile appearance, but a particular facial change cannot be guaranteed.

Do I need a retainer after braces?

Most orthodontic patients require retention after active treatment. The type and wear schedule are based on the original condition and risk of relapse.

How long must retainers be worn?

Retention is generally a long-term commitment. The schedule may change over time, but patients should not stop wearing retainers without advice from the treating dentist.

What happens if I miss an adjustment appointment?

Missed appointments may delay monitoring, leave appliance problems untreated and extend the treatment timeline. Contact the clinic to reschedule as soon as practical.

How much do braces cost?

The fee depends on the appliance type, treatment complexity, expected duration, diagnostic records and additional procedures. A personalised quotation requires an orthodontic examination.

Book a Braces Consultation

If you are concerned about crowded teeth, gaps, protruding teeth or an uneven bite, arrange an orthodontic assessment at SWC Dental in Rangsit.

The dentist will examine your teeth, gums and bite before explaining whether fixed braces, clear aligners or another treatment approach may be suitable.

View our dental treatment prices or contact SWC Dental to make an appointment through LINE Official @swcdental, call 02-531-3231 or 064-465-0565.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats malocclusion, a condition in which the teeth are not correctly positioned when the mouth is closed. This results in an improper bite.

When should we have the orthodontic treatment?

Your Orthodontist is able to tell you whether you need the treatment or not from intra extra oral examination, model and radiographic examination

	Upper anterior Protrusion Excessive protrusion of upper anterior teeth		Deep bite Upper front teeth almost completely overlap the lower front teeth
	Lower anterior protrusion Excessive protrusion of lower anterior teeth		Spacing Generalized gap between teeth
	Anterior crossbite Lower anterior teeth is in front of upper anterior teeth		Crowding Uneven alignment of teeth due to space deficiency
	Openbite No contact of upper and lower anterior teeth		Ectopic eruption Malposition of tooth

Type of Orthodontic appliance

1.Removable appliance used when some teeth need to be moved Pro : easy to clean the appliance and brush your teeth Con : need patient cooperation

2.Fixed appliance Patient can’t take the appliance out for cleaning.  Multiple teeth are moved simultaneously in the same time. Pro : Don’t need patient cooperation as much as removable appliance Con : Difficult to clean the appliance and brush your teeth 2 Type of fixed appliance Conventional bracket: Elastics are used to hold the wire Self-Ligating bracket: With the special clip to help holding the wire.  No elastics are needed.

New Technique for esthetic and comfortable

Clear Aligner (Invisalign)

Invisalign^® clear aligners are custom-made for you.

The aligners are virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner shifts your teeth slightly, moving them horizontally and vertically and even rotating them when needed.

Your aligners are engineered to use the right amount of force in the right place at the right time. When you change to the next set of aligners (typically every week) your teeth gradually move into position, following a custom treatment plan mapped out by your doctor.

Retainer

Retainers are essential in almost all cases to help prevent the teeth moving once the braces are removed.

Retainers are the devices that hold teeth in position after orthodontic treatment.  Almost every patient who has had orthodontic treatment needs to wear retainers. If you do not wear these retainers then your teeth will go crooked again, and the hard work in wearing the braces will be lost.

Why is wearing retainers important?

• Teeth tend to want to move back towards their original positions. This is called relapse.
• As we get older our teeth may start to move unpredictably, often showing some crossing over and increased in crowding.

By wearing retainers long-term we can reduce these age changes in the position of the teeth. The longer you wear retainers, the longer you can keep your teeth straight.

Types of retainers

Clear retainer (Essix retainer)
This is a clear retainer that is usually worn on a part-time basis.

Bonded retainer
This is a fixed type of retainer. This is stuck onto the teeth – usually hidden on the inside of the teeth.
+The advantage is that you don’t need to remember to wear this retainer (as it stuck in full-time).
– you must spend extra time cleaning around it and if it ever gets loose, you should seek advice.

Hawley retainer
This is a strong retainer, which is removable and has a plastic bit that fits either behind your lower teeth or in your palate behind the upper teeth. There is also usually a thin metal wire running across your front teeth to keep them in position. This retainer may affect your speech slightly when you first use it, but this quickly improves with time.

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs).
It’s a very small (1.5 – 2 mm diameter) titanium or stainless steel alloy screw which acts as an anchor point in your jaw. They are then connected to a fixed brace to help move the teeth.

Will it be painful?
Local anaesthesia is used to numb a small area of your gum, and the mini-implant is then gently inserted. You may experience an odd pressure sensation as this occurs. Once the numbness wears off you may feel some discomfort within the first 24 hours and approximately 50% of patients report taking simple painkillers (e.g. ibuprofen or paracetamol) to resolve this. Mini-implants are easily removed when no longer needed, by unwinding them, usually without the need for any anaesthesia. The resulting small wound heals painlessly within several days.

How long will the mini-implant(s) be in place?
This depends on the type of treatment you’re having, and its goals. Mini-implants are generally in place for between several months and years, but once a mini-implant’s in place you’ll probably barely notice it.