Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires the professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.

Your Orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first complete a four year program at a dental school in a university accredited by the Canadian Dental Association. They must then successfully complete an additional program of at least two to three academic years of advanced education in orthodontics, again accredited by the CDA. This advanced training includes such diverse studies as genetics, embryology, human growth and development, and biophysics. Only dentists with this advanced specialty education can present themselves as Orthodontists.

Orthodontics can boost a person’s self-image as teeth, jaws and lips become properly aligned, but an attractive smile is just one of the benefits. Alleviating or preventing physical health problems is just as important.

Without treatment, orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction and chewing and digestive difficulties. A "bad bite" can contribute to speech impairments, tooth loss, chipped teeth and other dental injuries.

You already know that braces straighten teeth. But what you may not know is that a beautiful smile is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Bringing teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment creates a great smile and a good bite. Straight teeth simply function better and are easier to clean. Straight teeth increases confidence and self-esteem. This psychological benefit can be a significant factor in the decision to undergo treatment and is often the patient’s main treatment goal. A beautiful smile is a pleasure to own and a pleasure to see.

Adults as well as children and adolescents can benefit because the basic process involved in moving teeth is the same. Orthodontic treatment can usually be successful at any age. The health of the teeth, the gums and the supporting bones will determine the prospects for improvement.

"Malocclusion" is a technical term for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth which do not fit together properly. The word means "bad bite." Most malocclusions are inherited. These include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, cleft palate and a variety of irregularities of the jaws and face. Some malocclusions are acquired. They can be caused by thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, dental disease, premature loss of primary or permanent teeth, accidents or some medical problems. Left untreated, these orthodontic problems can become worse. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that may cause tooth decay, eventual gum disease and tooth loss. A bad bite can also cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing, excess stress of the supporting bone and gum tissue, and occasionally lead to jaw joint disturbances.

The AAO recommends that every child should see an Orthodontist no later than age 7. In some cases, this could be as young as 2 or 3. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed.

While it’s important to keep in mind the lifetime value that orthodontics offers, we know you have specific cost questions, so don’t be afraid to ask. You may discover the price tag is considerably lower than you ever thought. Cost, of course, depends on the nature of the problem. Many orthodontics problems require only limited treatment.

We would be happy to discuss fees. We can offer payment plans to help meet individual financial needs. In addition, many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits.

No. Because healthy teeth can be moved at any age, an Orthodontist can improve the smile of practically anyone – in fact, Orthodontists regularly treat patients in their 50s, 60s and older!

Orthodontists are the dental specialists who correct dental and facial irregularities. An Orthodontist is expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with the patient to help make sure teeth stay in their new positions.
Orthodontists are uniquely qualified to correct "bad bites." Orthodontists have at least two or three years of post doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduation from dental school.