What is the right age to bring my child in for an orthodontic consultation?
The guideline set out by the Canadian Association of Orthodontists states that children should see an Orthodontist for an early evaluation by the time they turn seven. By this point, a child’s jaw and teeth will have formed enough so that any developing issues are obvious, and an Orthodontist will be able to identify what treatment, if any, will be beneficial. For most patients, treatment won’t start until well after age seven. You don’t need a referral to have your child assessed by a drsourire Orthodontist.
Are there any signs I might notice in my child’s development that can indicate a possible orthodontic issue?
-
Development of poor habits like finger or thumb-sucking
-
Mouth breathing or breathing with greater difficulty than should be expected
-
Delayed or impeded speech
-
Crowding of teeth on the upper or lower jaw
-
Crooked eruption of adult teeth
-
Premature loss of baby teeth
-
Late loss of baby teeth
-
Headaches
-
An obvious overbite or underbite
Who is a candidate for braces or Invisalign?
There are many ways in which having Invisalign can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. Treating any issues you have with your bite or the alignment of your teeth can greatly reduce the likelihood of you needing more expensive or complex treatments like jaw surgery or a tooth extraction.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign is an orthodontic system that straightens your teeth with clear plastic aligner trays, in place of wires and brackets. These aligners are custom-made for your smile, based on a treatment plan created specifically for you by your Orthodontist. Over the course of your treatment, you will be provided with a number of trays, each tray making small changes to your tooth and jaw alignment. The aligner trays are designed in such a way that each will move your teeth into the desired position, as identified by your Orthodontist. Because the trays are clear, they provide patients with a discreet, “virtually invisible” approach to orthodontic treatment.
How long will treatment take?
Your treatment is as unique as you are, so there is no “one size fits all” length of time that you’ll wear your braces or undergo other forms of treatment. However, average treatment times typically range between six and 24 months and each case varies in complexity. Patients who practice good oral hygiene can also expect to have a positive impact on their treatment. Keeping up good habits like regularly flossing and brushing your teeth can also help your treatment go faster, as can complying with treatment recommendations, like wearing your elastics.
Can I still eat my favourite foods?
Yes! There are very few foods that we recommend you avoid during your treatment due to the possibility of damage to the wires or brackets. Any damage can extend your treatment times, so we’d encourage you to stay away from foods like hard candy, caramel, and nuts. You can still enjoy many of your favourite foods, but your preparation of them might change. For example, you should cut hard vegetables into smaller pieces, and always ensure you brush and floss afterwards! With Invisalign, because the clear aligners are removable during meal times, you can eat all of your favourite foods!
Does drsourire offer payment plans?
We sure do! Our goal is to make orthodontic treatment accessible and affordable for everyone who requires it. Our team will work with you to find a flexible, interest-free financing plan that meets your needs, with no credit checks required. drsourire will not let finances stand in the way of providing the treatment you or your loved one need.