Teeth-Straightening Solutions from the Teenage Years and Beyond
By the age of 13, most children have lost their baby teeth and are transitioning to their adult teeth. This is a critical time to begin orthodontic treatment, as it’s easier to address issues such as overcrowding or crooked teeth before all the permanent teeth settle into place. Early intervention can help prevent more serious issues later on and help ensure their adult smile is straight, healthy, and easy to care for.
Orthodontic treatment does more than just enhance the appearance of a smile, it also improves oral health by making it easier to clean the teeth and bite properly. Misaligned teeth or a crooked bite can lead to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and even pain. Fortunately, orthodontics can resolve these issues, often in as little as six months.
Your teen might benefit from orthodontic treatment if they have:
- An overbite: When the upper teeth protrude too far forward.
- Excessive spacing: Gaps or spaces between the teeth.
- An underbite: When the lower teeth sit too far forward.
- Crowding: Overlapping teeth that are hard to clean.
- Crossbite: A misalignment where the teeth don’t mesh properly.
- Pain: Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in the upper back and neck.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are several options available, depending on your teen’s needs and your budget. Here are some of the most popular treatments:
Traditional Braces
Modern braces are smaller, less noticeable, and more comfortable than their older counterparts. These brackets are just as effective and easier to clean, making them a great choice for young adults.
Clear Brackets
For a more discreet option, clear brackets offer the same effectiveness as traditional braces but with a more subtle appearance. These are especially popular among young adult patients looking for a less visible solution.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, have become incredibly popular. These custom-made transparent trays gradually shift teeth into position. They are comfortable, easy to remove for eating and cleaning, and can be taken off for special occasions such as a school dance or presentation.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Ajax
Orthodontic treatment costs vary depending on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment chosen. With most insurance plans, the cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000+. Without insurance, treatment usually costs between $4,000 and $6,000+.
Factors that influence the cost include:
- The current state of your teen’s oral health, including the condition of their teeth and gums.
- How much the teeth need to move.
- The type of orthodontic treatment selected.
- The duration of treatment.
To provide an accurate cost estimate, we recommend scheduling a consultation at our Dental Office in Ajax. After a thorough oral exam, we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes a detailed timeline and cost estimate.
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.
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Dr. Asad Hasan is the winner of the 3 Best Rated award for Best Dentists in Ajax.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to begin orthodontic treatment is during the teenage years when most of the adult teeth have come in but before they become fully settled. We recommend bringing your teen in for a consultation as early as age 12 or 13. However, if you or your teen haven’t had treatment yet, don’t worry—there are orthodontic solutions for adults too!
Braces themselves don’t cause pain when they are first applied. However, some discomfort may occur as the teeth begin to shift. Most patients describe the sensation as mild and temporary, similar to the feeling of pressure. If your teen experiences significant discomfort, we encourage you to let us know, as there are ways to make the process more comfortable.
While wearing braces, it’s important to avoid foods that can damage the brackets or get stuck in the wires. These include:
- Sticky foods like caramel or gum.
- Hard foods like candy apples or corn on the cob.
- Foods that leave particles behind, like popcorn or seeded crackers.
If your teen wears clear braces, be mindful of foods like curry or beets, which can cause staining.
If any part of the braces or aligners breaks or becomes damaged, call us immediately! Don’t wait until the next scheduled appointment, as prompt repairs are essential to keeping the treatment on track.
Flossing with braces can be tricky, but there are special tools, like floss threaders and super floss, that make it easier to clean around the brackets and wires. We’ll show you how to floss properly during your next appointment.
Orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the case. For minor adjustments, treatment can be completed in a shorter time frame, while more complex cases may require longer treatment. After a consultation, we’ll give you a more accurate estimate of the time required.
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