Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be referred by my family/general dentist?
A referral is not required. We will communicate our recommendations with your general dentist at the start of treatment and throughout your care, as they are an essential part of your oral health team. We would love to hear from you!
What is an orthodontist?
Certified orthodontists study for an additional two to three years following dental school and have extensive, specialized training and experience in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of many different orthodontic problems. Our doctors each went to University for 10 years each to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become orthodontists! More information on this from the Canadian Association of Orthodontists.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening around age 7. Find out why and what to look for on our Early Treatment page.
Am I too old to straighten my teeth?
Believe it or not, it's never too late to have orthodontic treatment and get the great smile you deserve! In fact, we have treated several orthodontic patients in their 70's. As long as your dental & periodontal health is good, we can discuss several orthodontic treatments to help you select what's best for you. See our Adult Treatment page for more information.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Find out more about the cost of orthodontic treatment here.
How does orthodontic insurance work?
Your dental insurance may cover a substantial portion of orthodontic treatment fees. Find out more on our Insurance page.
What happens at the first appointment?
The first visit is all about getting to know our office, our team, and for us to learn more about you and your smile needs! We have more information about what's covered on that day on our First Appointments page.
How frequent are appointments?
While appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs, most patients in braces are seen every 6 weeks on average.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment time is very much dependent on each patient's specific problems, but typically ranges from 12 to 30 months.
Will my child's teeth straighten out as he or she gets older?
Unfortunately not. Research tells us that teeth generally become more crowded as we age. In children where we expect moderate to severe crowding, early treatment may help reduce the need for tooth extractions or surgery. An orthodontic consultation at age 7 is the best way to know if your child's bite is on the right track!
Can I eat normally when I have braces on my teeth?
You will have to avoid hard foods, sticky foods, and popcorn during your orthodontic treatment to avoid damaging your appliances. See our Life with Braces page for more on this.
Can I still wear a mouthguard for sports when I have braces?
Absolutely, and it's strongly encouraged! We'll talk to you about the most appropriate mouthguard options during your first few appointment. More on this on our Life with Braces page.