Braces and Orthodontic Care in Central
Diestel & Partners provides braces and orthodontic care for children and adults in Central, Hong Kong. We assess tooth alignment, bite and oral health, explain the suitable options and arrange specialist input when needed.
Table of Contents
Your Braces Dentist
Your orthodontic care at Diestel Partners is led by Dr Kay S. Chan, a general dentist whose practice is restricted to orthodontics, supported by Dr. Ailsa Tam for coordination and general dental needs. For complex cases needing specialist input, we can also draw on our sister clinic, Smith & Jain Dentists.
Dr. Kay S. Chan
General Dentist (Practice Restricted to Orthodontics)
Brace Orthodontics, Dental Surgeon
Speaks: English
Braces Are About More Than Looks
Orthodontic treatment can improve tooth alignment and some bite problems. Better alignment may make daily cleaning easier, but does not replace brushing, cleaning between the teeth or regular dental checks. The likely benefits and limitations depend on the individual bite and oral health.
Why an Early Assessment Helps for Children
An early assessment can identify developing tooth and jaw problems while baby and adult teeth are changing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic check-up by age seven. This does not mean every child needs braces at seven: some need monitoring, while selected problems may benefit from early treatment.
Your dentist can advise on assessment and referral. Early treatment does not automatically shorten the total course, and adults can also have orthodontic treatment when their oral health permits.
What to Expect With Braces at Diestel
Timing reference: Fixed braces often take around 1–2 years, but some treatments are shorter or longer. Review visits are commonly spaced about 4–10 weeks apart. Your plan depends on the bite, appliance, tooth movement and attendance; these are general references, not a promised schedule.
- Assessment and referral: The dentist checks whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate. At our clinic, Dr Kay S. Chan is a general dentist whose practice is restricted to orthodontics. Specialist referral can be arranged when indicated.
- Clinical records: Appropriate photographs, scans or impressions and X-rays help assess the teeth and jaws. Decay and gum problems need attention before treatment.
- Treatment plan: Discuss appliance choices, likely benefits, limitations, risks, fees and estimated duration.
- Fitting: The chosen appliance is fitted, with the appointment length confirmed in advance.
- Reviews: The dentist checks movement and adjusts treatment at the intervals set for your case.
- Retention: After active treatment, retainers help maintain tooth position. Long-term wear is often needed; follow your prescribed schedule.
Brush carefully with fluoride toothpaste and clean around the appliance and between teeth. Contact the clinic if a bracket, wire or retainer breaks, or pain persists. Keep routine dental check-ups during orthodontic care.
Types of Braces at a Glance
- Fixed braces: Metal or tooth-coloured ceramic brackets are attached to the teeth and adjusted by the dentist. Suitability depends on the movements needed.
- Removable appliances: Used for selected movements or stages of treatment; wearing them as directed is important.
- Functional appliances: May be used for selected bite problems during growth. They are not suitable for every child or every jaw problem.
Clear aligners (Invisalign)
Invisalign uses removable clear aligners to move teeth in planned stages. Suitability depends on the bite, movements needed and ability to follow the wear schedule. See our Invisalign clear aligner page for wear, follow-up and retention information.
About the Cost of Braces
Orthodontic treatment is highly individual — every patient’s teeth and complexity differ — so we can’t give an accurate quote before an in-person clinical examination. The overall cost mainly depends on how complex the case is, the type of appliance chosen, and the length of treatment. At your consultation we’ll set out the treatment plan and the associated fees clearly, so you know what to expect before starting. For a general sense of fee ranges across common dental treatments in Hong Kong, ask us for the group’s fee-reference information.
Book Your Braces Consultation
Wondering whether you or your child is suitable for braces? Book a consultation at Diestel & Partners in Central and let our team assess your needs and recommend a suitable orthodontic plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best age to start braces?
There is no single starting age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic assessment by age seven. Some children need monitoring; selected problems may benefit from early treatment, but this does not automatically shorten the full course. Adults can also have braces when their oral health permits.
How long does braces treatment take?
Fixed braces often take around 1–2 years as a general guide; individual treatment may be shorter or longer. Review intervals are commonly around 4–10 weeks and are set by the treating dentist. Timing depends on the bite, tooth movement, attendance and following instructions. Long-term retainer wear is usually needed after treatment, with the schedule advised individually.
What's the difference between braces and Invisalign?
Fixed braces use brackets and wires attached to the teeth. Invisalign uses removable clear aligners, generally worn for 20–22 hours a day as instructed. Suitability depends on the tooth movements, bite and ability to follow the plan; neither option is suitable for every case. Your dentist will explain the appropriate options.
Do braces hurt?
For a few days after fitting or each adjustment, teeth may feel tender or under pressure — this is normal and usually settles within a few days. Your dentist can advise on staying comfortable through the adjustment period.
Do I really need a retainer after the braces come off?
Yes. Teeth tend to drift back over time, and a retainer helps hold the result. It’s an important final step of treatment, so it shouldn’t be skipped.