How much does a consultation cost?
The consultation fee is 60 dollars. The orthodontist will take the time to properly examine your child or yourself (if you request adult orthodontics)and take pictures of your face and teeth. The pictures will be uploaded for viewing in our private consultation office, where the orthodontist will explain the orthodontic concerns.
Suzanne, our office manager, will then discuss the different options determined by the orthodontist. She will present you with detailed information concerning this new experience and will provide an estimate for the proposed orthodontic treatment. We offer interest free monthly payments to help you afford this important procedure.
A consultation report with pictures will then be sent to you by mail or e-mail.
How long does the appointment last?
Usually, a consultation will last forty five minutes. Our team takes the time to ensure that you fully understand all of the different aspects of your orthodontic concerns and treatment options.
Can I book a consultation without a dentist's referral?
Absolutely! As much as referrals from general dentists are welcome, we are glad to give you a consultation appointment when you call. Sarah, our receptionist, will be happy to book an appointment for your child or yourself regarding any orthodontic concern you may have.
In order to better study your case, we will take diagnostic records. These records consist of more photographs, a panoramic radiograph (to see all your teeth including the ones that have yet to erupt), a cephalometric radiograph (a view of your profile) and impressions which will be poured into study models.
We will use these records to diagnose your orthodontic problem and come up with the best possible treatment options. These records will be used during your treatment and will be carefully kept for an additional 5 years following the end of your orthodontic treatment.
Metal: Metal braces are durable, very strong and easy to clean. They have some advantages over other types of braces and we will be happy to discuss these advantages when you visit us.
Porcelain brackets: Porcelain brackets are a great way to get orthodontic treatment without the metallic look of conventional brackets. Porcelain brackets of the past were problematic due the yellowing over time of the elastics that tie the wire into the bracket. Our new self-ligating brackets do not use elastics, they are translucent (they take on the color of your teeth) and are barely noticeable.
Colored elastics: Colored elastics used to be an important part of your orthodontic treatment since they held the wire in place - not used any more as we use self ligating brackets which do not require elastics. These elastics promote plaque build-up. We will place them at your request on your front teeth if you can maintain a great oral hygiene.
Invisalign: Invisalign is a great new technique used to move teeth without braces. Please visit the website www.invisalign.com for more information and give us a call for a free screening. This screening will allow our doctors to determine if you are a candidate for this type of treatment.
Can Invisalign treat all malocclusions?
Unfortunately not. There are still movements that are not predictable enough with this technology. However, the company keeps refining the products and aligners are now much better and more predictable than in the past. Take advantage of our free screening offer to inquire and get a demonstration of this great technology.
Should I go to the dentist during my orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely! Every six months is the recommended interval between dental checkups. Some adults with more fragile gingival tissue may have to go every three months. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene will decrease the probability of gum swelling or bleeding during the course of your treatment. It will also reduce the risk of developing permanent white marks on your teeth (an early sign of cavities) after the orthodontic treatment is complete and your braces are removed.
Why do we use elastics (rubber bands)?
Elastics are used to move teeth and ensure that the upper and lower teeth fit well together. While braces are useful in aligning teeth on the same arch, they cannot align the upper arch in relation to the lower arch. You should wear your elastics as prescribed by your orthodontist. Risks of not wearing your elastics as prescribed include a longer treatment time and results that are not ideal.
How do you install brackets (braces)?
Please have a look at the small demonstration (video clip) that we have produced. You will have a much better idea of the procedure.
Does it hurt?
Bonding (gluing) brackets and installing the first wire is a completely painless procedure. We do not use needles and our office will use the lightest possible wire to ensure maximum comfort to the patient.
It is fairly common to have some discomfort for 24 to 48 hours after the braces are introduced. You may want to take over-the-counter pain medication. You may call us should you have any concerns.
What is the best age to see an orthodontist?
The American and Canadian Associations of Orthodontists recommend that a screening appointment be booked when your child reaches the age of 7. The probability of placing braces on a 7 year-old is fairly slim but some problems such as crossbites, thumb sucking, poor swallowing patterns or sleep apnea can be helped by early orthodontic intervention.
How old is too old to get orthodontic treatment?
There is no age limit to initiate orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign, we are now able to reposition teeth in patients over 60 without braces. Braces may be used in patients whose malocclusions are too complex for Invisalign treatment.
Why should I see a certified specialist in orthodontics?
An orthodontist is a specialist who has attended an extra three years of university-based training to become an expert in orthodontics. No other form of training is recognized by the Canadian or American Associations of Orthodontists. Only certified specialists from recognized universities can call themselves orthodontists. Please visit the Canadian Association of Orthodontists website at www.cao-aco.org or the American Association of Orthodontists' website at www.braces.org to better understand what an orthodontist's training is all about.
