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What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty that specializes in diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is also concerned with correctly positioned teeth, jaw bones, jaw joints and chewing muscles. Straightening your teeth will give you a beautiful smile, but that is not all that orthodontics is concerned with! Aligning your teeth helps your teeth function better and makes them easier to clean. In addition, a healthy smile enhances self-confidence.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is essentially a specially trained dentist. An orthodontist requires 2-4 years of further training after receiving their degree in dentistry. Only dentists with this advanced specialty degree can call themselves Orthodontists!

What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

  • You'll have a nicer smile and straighter teeth
  • Psychological benefits - With better aesthetic appearance, you may have increased confidence and self-esteem
  • Your teeth will be easier to brush, floss and take care of. You'll be less likely to have cavities, gum disease or jaw problems
  • You will have a better ability to chew

Do I need a referral to see an Orthodontist?

Your dentist is especially trained to notice problems in your bite and development of your teeth. It is always important to maintain teeth and gums with regular check-ups and cleanings by your dentist! However, you can obtain the name of an orthodontist from friends, family and coworkers or from the yellow pages. We welcome patients from all sources and you can call and make your own appointment.

When should I see an Orthodontist?

There is no rule regarding the right age for orthodontic treatment. It can vary from person to person depending on the specific orthodontic needs. It is a good idea to consult an orthodontist when your child is approximately 7 years old. Even if no treatment is initiated at this age, the orthodontist can ensure that treatment is planned for the future and can monitor your child's growth and eruption of teeth. Early treatment may mean avoiding surgery or other corrections later on.

Is orthodontics just for kids?

Today, more than one in every four patients are over the age of 21. You are never too old to consider a change for a brighter smile and a better bite.

How does insurance work with orthodontic treatment?

As a Canadian Association of Orthodontics policy, our office does not direct bill your insurance plan. Payment is due on the date of services rendered. We will, however, be pleased to help you out as much as possible and will provide you with preauthorizations and claim forms for you to submit to your insurance company.

Orthodontic coverage is often a separate benefit in a dental insurance plan. Coverage is usually around 50% and there is usually a lifetime maximum applicable depending on the insurance contract. It is suggested that you contact your insurance company or speak with your employer to ask about the specifics of your dental coverage.

Are there payment plans for orthodontic treatment?

Because orthodontic treatment for each patient is unique, payment plans are as well. Some treatment is limited, while others are extensive and take longer. We will be pleased to discuss fees with you before beginning any treatment and offer tailored payment plans suited to your needs. We also offer various methods of payment during your treatment including cash, cheque, Debit, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express.

How long does treatment take?

The length of your treatment depends on your bite problem, age, response to treatment, and cooperation with wearing appliances as advised.

Will I need to wear a retainer?

Shifting or settling of teeth following treatment and retention often occurs in varying degrees. Some undesirable changes may include rotations, crowding of the lower front teeth, spaces at the extraction sites, and spaces between the upper front teeth. The eruption of wisdom teeth, previously rotated teeth, mouth breathing, and uncontrolled muscle habits are the most frequent causes. The best way to minimize undesirable changes is to wear retainers as prescribed by the orthodontist.

What foods can I eat?

Wearing braces doesn't have to mean giving up your favorite foods. A little care needs to be taken with your braces and appliances because they can be easily damaged. Troublemakers include sticky, hard, crunchy and surgery foods.

What is headgear?

Headgear is used primarily for bite problems. It most often has a neck or head strap and a facebow. The facebow is connected to special tubes attached to the braces on the back teeth. The facebow puts pressure on the upper teeth and jaw to slow growth of the upper jaw. Some, but not all patients need to wear headgear as part of their treatment.

What do orthodontic elastics do?

Elastics provide the force necessary to move teeth along the wires to straighten teeth, close spaces and allow teeth in either jaw to meet with their counterparts.

Do braces hurt?

It is normal to have some tenderness and discomfort for 3-7 days following the placement of new wires or when adjustments are made to the teeth. The discomfort is usually short-lived and should not interfere significantly with your level of activity. The braces themselves may also rub into cheeks, tongue and lips. Ask your orthodontist for some wax to stop these areas from rubbing and be sure to call if something is poking or is loose.

Are there different kinds of braces?

With today's technology there are many options and many different types of braces. According to your personal needs we have the following kinds available:

Silver - These are the conventional braces that most people wear when having orthodontic treatment.

Colored Elastics - The fun with these braces is the option of changing the color of your elastics at every visit! A wide array of colors are available including colors for holidays, special occasions or to match your favorite sports team's colors.

Transparent/Ceramic - These braces are the same color as your tooth structure and are virtually undetectable.

Lingual Braces – These are customized braces that rest on the inside of your teeth. They have the advantage of improved aesthetics for adult professionals who want to avoid appearance of traditional braces. Visit www.lingualcare.com for more information.

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