Braces in Dubai

According to statistics, malocclusion is found in more than 80% of people. For most, these imperfections are subtle, do not affect health, and have no impact on daily life. However, there are cases where orthopedic treatment is necessary. AESTHETE Dental Clinic offers a solution: braces installation. Our medical center is located in Dubai (UAE), Bluewaters Island, and is staffed by highly qualified and experienced dentists.

How It Works

A bracket is a plate or clip attached to a tooth. A non-removable orthodontic structure made of multiple brackets connected by an archwire is called a braces system.
The archwire is the active element of the system. Once installed, the orthodontist adjusts its tension to a pre-calculated level. The wire attempts to return to its original shape, exerting pressure on individual brackets. This pressure is transferred to the teeth, gradually moving them in the desired direction.

The movement occurs slowly but steadily. The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the defect being corrected, typically lasting several years.

Braces deliver particularly effective results when applied to children whose jaw and dental systems are still developing and whose bone tissue has not yet hardened. For adults, this method of bite correction is also effective, but the treatment duration is longer. In some cases, alternative methods for correcting dental imperfections may be recommended for adult patients.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Braces

Orthodontic systems like braces have both benefits and drawbacks. During a consultation, the dentist typically explains these details to provide the patient with enough information to make an informed decision.

Advantages

• Predictable Results: Braces effectively correct malocclusion in both children and adults. In many cases, they are the only viable solution for addressing bite issues.
• Broad Indications: These non-removable orthodontic systems can address a wide range of bite problems. The only exceptions are severe defects that require surgical intervention.
• No Upper Age Limit: Braces are not just for teenagers; they are also suitable for adults. However, the retention period, which is necessary to secure the results, tends to be longer for older patients.
• Variety of Models: Patients can choose from metal, ceramic, or artificial sapphire braces. Options include ligature or self-ligating systems, as well as vestibular (front-facing) or lingual (placed behind the teeth) installations. This variety allows customization based on the severity of the defect and the patient’s preferences.
• Minimal Impact on Smile Aesthetics: While traditional metal brackets on vestibular braces are highly visible, alternatives like ceramic or lingual systems significantly reduce visibility, offering a more discreet appearance.

Disadvantages

• Discomfort and Pain at the Start of Treatment: The force exerted by braces causes pressure on the teeth, often leading to pain in the first few days after installation. Braces may also irritate the soft tissues of the mouth.
• Dietary Restrictions: Foods need to be cut into smaller pieces before eating. Hard, tough, or sticky foods should be avoided entirely.
• Intensive Maintenance Requirements: Braces require regular cleaning using specialized tools such as toothbrushes, floss, and interdental brushes. Without proper hygiene, the risk of cavities increases.
• Visibility: Traditional metal brackets on vestibular braces are noticeable, which can cause self-consciousness during social interactions. While ceramic and sapphire braces are less conspicuous, they are not completely invisible.

By understanding these pros and cons, patients can make an informed decision that aligns with their dental needs and lifestyle.

When Braces Are Necessary

The most common reason for orthodontic treatment is malocclusion, which includes improper alignment of the dental arches, disproportionate jaw development, and abnormalities in the size, shape, or angle of teeth. These issues can lead to a range of problems:

• Facial Aesthetics, Expression, and Speech: Malocclusion can disrupt facial symmetry and speech clarity, affecting a person’s appearance and communication skills. This often leads to psychological challenges, including social withdrawal.
• Difficulty Chewing: Improperly aligned teeth make it hard to chew food properly, which can result in gastrointestinal disorders.
• Headaches and Neck Discomfort: Misaligned jaws and teeth can cause chronic headaches and discomfort in the cervical spine.
• Tooth Wear and Damage: Misaligned teeth increase enamel wear on neighboring healthy teeth, accelerating decay. Fillings and crowns are also at higher risk of failure.
• Crowded Teeth: Crowding prevents effective cleaning of the spaces between teeth, raising the risk of cavities.

These issues can affect children, teenagers, and adults. Regardless of age, proper orthodontic treatment is essential to address these concerns.

In some cases, braces are used for adults as part of preparation for prosthetics or implants. For example, braces may be required to create space in the dental arch for crowns by repositioning teeth.

Another indication for braces is obstructive sleep apnea caused by abnormalities in the structure of the jaw or teeth.

Contraindications

Braces are subject to certain restrictions, which can be either temporary (relative) or permanent (absolute).

Relative Contraindications:

• Cavities and other dental issues: These must be treated before braces can be installed.
• Inflammation of periodontal tissues: Pre-treatment is required to address these conditions.
• Lack of permanent teeth: Braces are generally recommended for children aged 13–14 years or older. For younger children, braces are prescribed only in exceptional cases after thorough diagnostics.

Absolute Contraindications:

• Cancer: Orthodontic treatment is contraindicated for patients with oncological diseases.
• Fragility and Wear of Enamel: Pathological conditions that weaken enamel prevent successful treatment.
• Advanced Age-Related Changes: Significant changes in the jaw and dental structures due to aging can make braces unsuitable.
• Mental or Nervous Disorders: Conditions that prevent the patient from understanding or following the dentist’s instructions.
• Allergic Reactions to Braces Materials: While alternative materials can sometimes be used, it is not always possible to find a suitable solution.

These considerations ensure that orthodontic treatment is both safe and effective for patients.