Frequently Asked Questions
Keep reading to find out the answers to your questions. If you don't find the answer here, please contact us so that we can help you in any way we can!
1. How early should my child see an orthodontist?
The recommended age for the first orthodontic visit is age 7. Orthodontists can diagnose any problems with the development of the bite, tooth eruption etc. and if needed, provide interceptive care that can shorten or avoid the need for orthodontic treatment in the future.
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However, 1 in 4 orthodontic patients is an adult. So there is no age limit for when you can invest in your bite and smile!
2. Does orthodontics hurt?
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, can cause discomfort and mild pain, especially after adjustments or initial placement. Studies indicate that the pain is usually mild to moderate and peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours, gradually subsiding afterward. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often very effective in managing these symptoms. Patient experience varies, with some reporting minimal pain, while others experience more discomfort.
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Soft foods like mashed potato, rice, yogurt, smoothies, pasta, and ice cream can help keep the discomfort to a minimum. If you have braces, our team will provide orthodontic wax to make sure your cheeks and lips are comfortable while you get used to the feeling.
3. Orthodontist vs. Dentist?
A dentist is a general oral healthcare provider who diagnoses and treats a wide range of dental issues, including cavities, gum disease, and routine cleanings. They complete a four-year dental program (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine) after their undergraduate education. Dentists can perform procedures like fillings, root canals, crowns, and extractions.
An orthodontist is a specialist focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. In Canada, after completing dental school, an orthodontist undergoes an additional 3 years of specialized training in orthodontics. In addition, they complete a MSc. degree by carrying out original research and learning advanced research methods so they can discern good information from misinformation. Orthodontists focus only on providing treatments like braces, clear aligners, and other devices to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and manage jaw alignment problems.
In summary, all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists have additional specialized training specifically focused on aligning teeth and jaws.
4. Extractions vs. non-extraction?
All orthodontists want to preserve as many healthy teeth as possible. We always attempt to avoid extractions, and suggest other alternatives whenever possible. But sometimes, there simply is no other way but to remove some teeth. Reasons for removing teeth can be: severe crowding, growth patterns, skeletal disharmony leading to misaligned bites, broken down teeth, impacted or ankylosed (stuck) teeth etc. In fact, in some circumstances, the risks of not removing teeth far outweigh the risks of removing them.
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There is a lot of misinformation about the risks of removing teeth for orthodontic purposes. When seeking advice, it's crucial to consult with practitioners who hold advanced degrees in research. These experts are trained to critically evaluate studies, recognize reliable data, and distinguish between well-supported conclusions and misleading claims. With the rise of misinformation, it's easy to be swayed by those who make false or exaggerated statements based on flawed research or misinterpretations of results. Professionals with strong research backgrounds are better equipped to provide evidence-based recommendations, ensuring that decisions are grounded in sound science rather than misconceptions.