Teeth-Straightening Solutions for Teens and Beyond
By age 13, most children have lost their baby teeth, making it easier to spot overcrowding or crooked permanent teeth. This is an ideal time to begin orthodontic treatment as their adult smile takes shape.
Orthodontics not only enhances the appearance of a smile but also improves oral health. Misaligned teeth and an uneven bite can lead to discomfort, difficulty cleaning, and even chronic aches. With the right treatment, these issues can often be resolved in as little as six months.
- Your teen may benefit from orthodontic care if they have:
- Overbite: Upper teeth sit too far forward.
- Excessive spacing: Gaps between teeth.
- Underbite: Lower teeth sit too far forward.
- Crowding: Teeth overlap, making flossing difficult.
- Crossbite: A bite that feels uncomfortable or doesn’t align.
- Pain: Chronic headaches, jaw discomfort, or neck and back pain.
Start early to ensure your teen’s smile is both beautiful and healthy!
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic care offers a variety of options to suit individual needs and budgets. Here are some popular choices:
Traditional Braces
Modern braces are smaller, less noticeable, and more comfortable than older versions. These metal brackets and wires effectively straighten teeth while being easier to clean and maintain.
Clear Brackets
Clear brackets offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces, blending with teeth for a more subtle look. This option is especially popular among young adults who value a less noticeable treatment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, use custom-made trays to gently shift teeth into place. They’re removable for eating, brushing, and special occasions, making them a convenient and nearly invisible solution for teeth straightening. Find the option that best fits your lifestyle and achieve the smile you deserve!
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Ottawa
Orthodontic treatment in Ottawa typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000+ out-of-pocket with insurance and $4,000 to $6,000+ without coverage. After a thorough oral exam, we can provide an accurate quote detailing your insurance coverage and actual expenses.
What Determines the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment?
- Current oral health: The condition of teeth and gums.
- Complexity of tooth movement: How much the teeth need to shift.
- Type of treatment: Options like braces or aligners affect pricing.
- Treatment duration: The length of time required for correction.
Several factors influence the cost of orthodontics:
Because every smile is unique, a consultation is the best way to determine the right treatment and get a clear idea of costs and timelines. Let’s create a personalized plan that works for you!
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 most adult teeth have erupted. For parents, we recommend scheduling a consultation for your teen. However, it’s never too late! Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment with options designed for every age.
Braces don’t hurt when they’re first applied, but you might feel some discomfort as your teeth begin to shift. Most patients describe it as an annoyance rather than pain. If you experience discomfort, let us know—we’ll help make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Avoid foods that can damage braces, such as candy apples, caramel, or corn on the cob, and sticky or hard-to-clean foods like gum, popcorn, or sugary treats. For clear braces, watch out for foods that may stain, like beets, curry, or kraft dinner.
Call us right away! Don’t wait until your next appointment to address the issue.
Use floss threaders or super floss, which are specially designed for braces or permanent retainers. We’d be happy to demonstrate how to use them during your next visit.
Orthodontic treatment can take as little as six months for minor adjustments, but most treatments last between six months and two years. We’ll provide a more accurate timeline after your oral exam.