Teeth-Straightening Solutions from the Teenage Years and Beyond
By the age of 13, most children have lost their baby teeth, and it’s often clear if there will be overcrowding or crooked adult teeth, making this the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment as their permanent smile develops. While enhancing the natural beauty of their smile is a key goal, orthodontic care is crucial for overall oral health, addressing misalignment and bite issues that can lead to discomfort, cleaning difficulties, and even pain, with many cases being resolved in as little as six months.
- An overbite, where the upper teeth sit too far forward
- Excessive spacing, with noticeable gaps between the teeth
- An underbite, where the lower teeth sit too far forward
- Crowding, making it difficult to floss or causing teeth to overlap
- A crossbite, where the bite doesn’t align comfortably
- Chronic pain, including headaches, jaw discomfort, or upper back and neck pain
Your Teen Might Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment If They Have:
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are several orthodontic treatments available, tailored to fit each patient’s unique needs and budget. Here are a few common options:
Traditional Braces
When you think of braces, you might picture bulky metal brackets, but modern braces are smaller, less noticeable, and more comfortable. They’re also easier to clean and just as effective as the older designs.
Clear Brackets
For those seeking a more discreet option, clear brackets are a popular choice, especially for young adults. These brackets offer the same benefits as traditional braces but are less visible, making them blend in with your natural teeth at a glance.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are custom-made trays that gradually shift teeth into place. They are nearly invisible, can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions, and have become a favourite due to their convenience and subtle appearance.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Thornhill
With a typical insurance plan, orthodontic treatment usually costs between $3,000 and $5,000+ out-of-pocket. After an oral exam, we’ll be happy to provide an accurate quote so you can determine how much your insurance will cover and what your actual expenses will be. Without insurance, the cost typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000+.
- The current condition of the patient’s teeth and gums
- The extent of movement needed to align the teeth
- The type of orthodontic treatment selected
- The length of the treatment
How is the cost determined, and why does it seem expensive? Several factors come into play:
Since every smile is unique, the only way to know the best treatment and the exact cost is through a consultation. After an examination, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that outlines the timeline and cost tailored to your needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic treatment is ideal for younger patients before all their adult teeth have come in. If you’re a parent, we recommend bringing your teen in for a consultation. However, orthodontic options are available for adults too—it’s never too late to improve your smile.
Braces don’t hurt when first applied, but some discomfort may arise as your teeth begin to shift. Most patients describe it as more of an annoyance than pain. If you experience any significant discomfort, let us know—there are ways to help make the process more comfortable.
Avoid foods that could damage your braces, like candy apples, caramel, or corn on the cob, and anything difficult to clean, like gum or popcorn. Sugary or acidic foods should also be limited, as they’re harder to clean off your teeth. Clear braces can become stained by certain foods, such as beets, curry, or Kraft dinner.
Contact us immediately! Don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment.
Special tools like floss threaders and super floss are designed for braces or permanent retainers. We’d be happy to show you how to properly floss with braces at your next visit.
For minor adjustments, orthodontic treatment can take as little as six months, but for most patients, braces are typically worn between six months and two years. We’ll provide a more precise timeline after your oral exam.