Teeth straightening solutions from the teenage years and beyond
Most children lose their baby teeth by age 13. Even before the last baby teeth fall out and most adult teeth arrive, it is often clear where there will be crowding or crooked teeth. This is the best time to start orthodontic treatment while their permanent smile is still forming.
Orthodontic treatment not only enhances natural beauty but also improves oral health. Misaligned teeth and a crooked bite are harder to clean, can feel uncomfortable, and cause aches or pains. These issues can often be resolved in as little as six months with treatment.
- An overbite, where upper teeth sit too far forward
- Excessive spacing or gaps between teeth
- An underbite, where lower teeth sit too far forward
- Crowding, with overlapping teeth or difficulty flossing
- A crossbite, where the bite does not align comfortably
- Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or upper back and neck pain
Your teen might benefit from orthodontic treatment if they have:
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Many options exist depending on personal needs and budget. For expert orthodontic care for teens and adults, trust a caring Dentist in Mississauga, ON to guide your smile journey.
Some of the common choices include:
Traditional Braces
Often pictured as bulky metal brackets with wires, modern braces are smaller, less noticeable, and just as effective. They are easier to clean and more comfortable than older styles.
Clear Brackets
Clear brackets combine traditional orthodontics with discretion. Popular among teens, these braces are harder to notice at a glance.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign are growing in popularity. A series of custom transparent trays gradually shift teeth to their ideal positions. They fit precisely and can be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, and special events such as dances or presentations.
The cost of orthodontic treatment in Mississauga
With typical insurance, orthodontic treatment usually costs between three thousand and five thousand dollars out of pocket. After an exam, we can provide an accurate quote so you know what your insurance covers and your actual expenses. Without insurance, costs typically range from four thousand to six thousand dollars or more.
- Current condition of teeth and gums
- Amount of tooth movement needed
- Type of orthodontic treatment chosen
- Length of treatment
How do we determine the cost and why does it seem expensive?
Several factors affect cost:
Every smile is unique. The best way to find the right treatment and accurate cost is through a consultation. After an exam, a personalized plan with timeline and cost will be created.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontics ideally begins in younger patients before most adult teeth arrive. If you have a teen, we recommend bringing them for a consultation. Adults also have treatment options, it is never too late.
Braces do not hurt when first applied. Discomfort may occur as teeth shift, often described as annoying rather than painful. If you have pain, tell us, there are ways to make treatment comfortable.
Avoid foods that can damage braces such as candy apples, caramel, or corn on the cob, and those that are hard to clean like caramel, gum, and popcorn. Sugary or acidic foods are also harder to clean and can stain clear braces (e.g., beets, curry, kraft dinner).
Call us immediately. Do not wait for your next appointment.
Floss threaders and super floss are designed for braces and permanent retainers. We are happy to show you how at your next visit.
Small adjustments may take as little as six months. Most patients wear braces between six months and two years. We can give a better estimate after your exam.
