Wondering when’s a good time for your child to start orthodontic treatment – or whether clear aligners vs braces are the better choice? DR AMANDA KOH from Kohe Dental gives us the lowdown on early orthodontic treatment for children.
Tell us a bit about your clinic and the orthodontic treatments you offer for children.
Kohe Dental is a dedicated orthodontic and dentofacial aesthetics clinic that works primarily with young children aged six to 12 who require early orthodontic intervention, as well as with adults who wish to avoid tooth extractions during orthodontic treatment.
Both my co-founder and I created the clinic as a safe and affordable orthodontic clinic for families with young children to seek help, without feeling as if care is transactional. We believe that every child deserves a confident, healthy smile without the stress or complexity that often comes with dental care. Our focus is on offering personalised orthodontic solutions that are affordable, comfortable and designed around your child’s growth.
For children, we provide early intervention through palatal expanders, myofunctional therapy, MSE, MARPE and RPE. Using these techniques also allows for patients to avoid potential extractions.
Once expansion has been done, we work with traditional metal braces, self-ligating braces and clear aligners. This is a modern, less-invasive approach that works well even for younger patients. Our goal is to make orthodontic care transparent, gentle and something no one will dread!
As a dentist, how do you decide whether clear aligners or braces work better for a child?
One of the common issues patients experience with braces is abrasions on the inside of the mouth. While there are ways to mitigate the impact of these abrasions (for example, with braces wax or braces tubing with sleeves), clear aligners do not cause abrasions at all. Braces also tend to require more frequent visits to the dentist, whether due to a dislodged bracket or for routine monthly reviews.
When it comes to choosing between clear aligners and braces, a key deciding factor would be whether the child can be compliant with the 20-to-22-hour wearing schedule for clear aligners.
When’s the right time for parents to start thinking about whether their kids need clear aligners vs braces?
Around age seven is ideal for an initial assessment. We’re not always looking to start full orthodontic treatment that early, but it helps us identify any skeletal or bite issues that could benefit from early intervention. Think of it like checking a building’s foundation before it goes up. You want to catch issues early, not when the structure is already set.
What dental issues can be potentially prevented thanks to early orthodontic treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw development, correct harmful oral habits and make space for adult teeth to come in properly. This reduces the need for extractions or complex procedures later. It can also improve breathing, speech and chewing function. But beyond the functional benefits, early orthodontics helps children grow up with confidence in their smiles. That alone can be life-changing.
Among the orthodontic treatment options offered at Kohe is Angel Aligner. How are these clear aligners different from other aligners on the market?
Angel Aligner clear aligners have been on the market for more than 10 years and have been compared to Invisalign in terms of quality and predictability. Predictability is important as it means that the tooth movements are accurate based on the treatment planning of the clinician. It ensures consistency for results.
What makes this orthodontic treatment particularly suitable for kids and teenagers?
Many patients tell me that Angel Aligner clear aligners are extremely comfortable to wear and do not cause them discomfort during the treatment process. As with other clear aligners, they are discreet.
What does the treatment process typically look like for a child starting on these aligners?
It starts with a digital scan – no physical moulds needed – and a consultation where we walk parents and kids through the 3D simulation of how the teeth will move over time. Once we agree on the plan, the aligners are custom-made and delivered within a couple of weeks. We do regular reviews every six to eight weeks to track progress and adjustments can be made digitally. That speeds things up and reduces unnecessary appointments.
What are some potential downsides parents should keep in mind when it comes to aligners vs braces?
The biggest challenge is compliance. This is especially true for aligners. If a child forgets to wear them or does not follow the protocol, results can be delayed. That’s why we take time to assess readiness before recommending aligners. With braces, the concern is more about hygiene, since it can be harder to brush around the brackets. But we guide both child and parent through each step with realistic expectations and support.
Do you have any tips for parents in Singapore considering orthodontic treatment for their kids?
Always choose a clinic that takes time to educate you and your child. It’s not just about treating. The right clinician will help you understand your child’s growth patterns, give you a clear picture of what’s essential versus optional and tailor a plan that fits your family’s lifestyle and values. Don’t rush into getting the cheapest option or rush into a decision that will affect the teeth of your child for a lifetime. And don’t be afraid to ask questions until you are completely comfortable. Orthodontics is a journey and your child deserves to feel safe, supported and confident every step of the way.
Another tip is to find a clinic that prioritises your time. Children generally have a shorter attention span, so it’s important to find a clinician with experience working with children. Early intervention can do a lot more good than waiting until your child has grown older.
Finally, always pick non-extraction orthodontics, if possible. Healthy teeth are meant to be retained and not extracted simply to improve your profile!
About the doctor
Dr Amanda Koh is an aesthetic and full-mouth rehabilitation dentist who focuses on restoring beautiful smiles through orthodontics and dental implants. She has worked with children as young as seven years as well as adults to align, restore and beautify their smiles.
Kohe Dental
#07-02 Winsland House 1, 3 Killiney Road
9178 8969 | kohedental.com | info@kohedental.com
This article on aligners vs braces and orthodontic treatment at Kohe Dental first appeared in the August 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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