Orthodontics in Ottawa: Your Path to a Healthier Smile

Orthodontics: Healthy Smiles for All Ages

Enjoy the benefits of a straight smile without bite issues thanks to orthodontics in Ottawa. At Innes Dental Health Group, we believe orthodontic care is about more than appearance. Straighter teeth are can help reduce your risk of dental problems, and can improve how your jaw functions while enhancing esthetics. Many patients in Ottawa choose orthodontics because it offers both cosmetic and health benefits. Whether you are a parent considering treatment for your child or an adult interested in improving your smile, orthodontic care can make a lasting difference!

Why Orthodontics Matters

Orthodontics addresses issues like crooked teeth, crowding, gaps, and bite misalignment. According to both the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), almost anyone can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The basic process of moving teeth is the same for adults as it is for children, which is why more than one in four Canadians currently in orthodontic treatment are over the age of 21. Because oral health is a window into your overall well-being, orthodontic problems like misaligned teeth or a shifting jaw should be taken seriously. If left untreated, these issues can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and abnormal enamel wear.

What to Expect at Innes Dental Health Group

When you choose orthodontic treatment at our Ottawa office, here’s what you can expect:

  1. Consultation: We discuss your smile goals and examine your teeth and bite.
  2. Digital Imaging: X-rays and scans help us understand tooth and jaw alignment.
  3. Treatment Plan: We review options such as braces or aligners and map out your timeline.
  4. Appliance Placement: Braces or aligners are fitted comfortably to begin treatment.
  5. Adjustments: Regular checkups keep treatment on track.
  6. Monitoring Progress: We ensure your teeth are shifting safely and effectively.
  7. Completion & Retainers: After treatment, retainers help maintain your new smile.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments We Offer:

  • Traditional Braces: Modern braces are now much smaller and less noticeable than the old, bulky metal brackets and wires you might picture. They still deliver the same effective results but are easier to clean and provide a more comfortable experience.
  • Clear Brackets: A trusted option for adults seeking conventional braces, these discreet brackets blend in with your teeth. On just a quick glance, many may not even notice you’re wearing them.
  • Clear Aligners: Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, are an effective and subtle orthodontic solution. These custom-made, transparent trays gently shift your teeth into proper alignment. Since they are removable, you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.

Link Between Oral & Overall Health

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that oral health is closely connected to overall health, with gum disease linked to systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. The CDC estimates that nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal (gum) disease, and misaligned teeth can be a contributing factor. Overlapping or misaligned teeth can create hidden spaces where food and bacteria can collect, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Orthodontic treatment can help by reducing crowding and bite issues that trap plaque and bacteria, making it easier to maintain good hygiene and lowering long-term risks.

How Often / Who Needs Orthodontics

You or your child may need orthodontics if you have:
  • Overbite: Your upper teeth stick out too far.
  • Spacing: You have noticeable gaps between your teeth.
  • Underbite: Your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth.
  • Crowding: Your teeth overlap, making it hard to floss.
  • Crossbite: A misaligned bite causing discomfort or difficulty chewing.
  • Pain: You experience persistent headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in your upper back or neck.

Children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, according to the CDA. However, orthodontic care is effective at any age. Adults increasingly seek treatment to improve both function and confidence.

At-Home Tips Between Visits

To support your orthodontic treatment:

  • Clean Your Teeth Multiple Times a Day: If you’re wearing an orthodontic appliance, such as braces or aligners, it is important to keep your teeth extra clean.
  • Use What You Have at Home: You likely already have the supplies you need, like a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste. Remember to rinse your mouth with water after drinking anything sugary or acidic, and don’t forget to floss at least once a day.
  • Wear Your Elastics or Retainers As Prescribed: To keep your orthodontic treatment on track, follow our dentist’s recommendations. If you are running low on rubber bands, call us to devise a plan to get more.
  • Avoid Problematic Foods and Drinks: Handle your appliance with care. Avoid hard, sticky foods that could potentially break brackets, and skip sugary beverages and sports drinks. Water is always best!
  • Call Us if You Have Any Questions: Our friendly and caring team is here for you, even between visits. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have during this time.

Common Questions About Orthodontics

What foods do I avoid with my braces?

To keep your braces in optimal condition, you should avoid foods that can damage them, such as candy apples, caramel, and corn on the cob. It’s also best to stay away from foods that are difficult to clean out of your braces, like gum, caramel, and popcorn. Additionally, you should limit sugary or acidic foods, as they can be harder to remove from your teeth. If you have clear braces, it is best to consume deeply colored foods, such as beets, curry, and Kraft Dinner, in moderation to prevent staining.

The duration of your orthodontic treatment depends on your individual needs. For minor adjustments, treatment may take as little as six months, but for most patients, braces are typically worn for six months to two years. To provide an accurate estimate, we recommend an oral exam to determine the best treatment duration based on your specific requirements.

This is not necessarily the case. Clear aligners are not usually fabricated on-site, and delivery from the manufacturer can take four to six weeks. When you combine this with the time it takes for initial scans, placing attachments, and educating the user on how to properly wear and care for them, the process can take just as long as braces.

Many patients have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits, often provided by their employer. This type of insurance typically covers a portion or percentage of the fee for orthodontic treatment, and there may be a specific dollar amount or a lifetime cap.

To obtain coverage details, you can contact your human resources department or your insurance company directly. With your permission, we may also be able to confirm your insurance benefits, including:

  • The amount or percentage of the fee that is covered
  • Any limitations to your coverage
  • Whether you are required to choose from the insurance company’s providers

Signs You May Need Orthodontics Now

  • Teeth that are noticeably crooked or crowded.
  • Large gaps between teeth.
  • Underbites, overbites, and open bites.
  • Uneven enamel wear and gum disease.
  • Early or late loss of baby teeth.
  • Difficulty chewing or biting food.
  • Jaw discomfort linked to alignment.
  • A child struggling with mouth breathing.
  • Speech issues related to tooth position.

Why Choose Innes Dental Health Group for Orthodontics in Ottawa

At Innes Dental Health Group, we are committed to delivering orthodontic care that balances comfort, function, and appearance. Our Ottawa team uses trusted imaging and treatment planning to create personalized solutions. We take time to explain your options, answer your questions, and make sure you feel informed, relaxed, and empowered at every step. Patients choose us because we offer a caring, compassionate approach with personalized treatment options. Our Ottawa orthodontist offers solutions for kids, teens, and adults!

Why Choose Innes Dental Health Group for Orthodontics in Ottawa

We offer several orthodontic solutions beyond traditional braces, including:
  • Clear Aligners (Invisalign®): Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to correct a variety of dental concerns by gradually moving teeth into proper alignment over time. It can be an ideal solution for addressing crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites and underbites, and other mild to moderate alignment issues without the use of metal brackets.
  • Traditional Braces: This system straighten teeth by using a combination of brackets and wires affixed to your teeth and apply pressure to gradually move your teeth into more desirable positions. Our dentist may add elastic bands for additional force to help with tooth movement and correcting your bite. This treatment can address a wide range of concerns, including visibly crooked or crowded teeth, difficulty with effective brushing and flossing, and frequent biting of the tongue or cheek.
  • Early Interceptive Treatment: An early orthodontic assessment can be a proactive step toward ensuring long-term oral health for your child.

These options ensure we can match your treatment to your needs and preferences.

Affordability & Insurance

Orthodontic care is an investment in your health and confidence. Several dental insurance plans cover part of orthodontic treatment for children and sometimes adults. At Innes Dental Health Group, we provide clear estimates, review your coverage, and direct bill your insurance provider. This way, you can focus on your treatment without financial stress.

Ready for a Straighter Smile?

Your smile deserves care that supports both health and confidence. With orthodontics at Innes Dental Health Group in Ottawa, you can enjoy straighter teeth, better function, and renewed self-esteem. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your journey.

Call our office today or click to book your orthodontics consultation. Let’s start building your best smile together!

Call Innes Dental Health Group about Orthodontics today!

5 Quick Benefits of Orthodontics

  • Corrects crooked and crowded teeth for a healthier smile
  • Improves bite alignment to prevent jaw strain
  • Supports better oral hygiene by making teeth easier to clean
  • Boosts confidence with a straighter, more balanced smile
  • Options available for children, teens, and adults