Teeth Straightening Options for Adolescents and Adults
Orthodontic treatments are suitable for smiles of all ages, from teenagers to adults, providing benefits for the entire family. Beyond enhancing the aesthetics of your smile, orthodontics plays a crucial role in improving oral health. Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can make cleaning difficult, leading to discomfort or even pain. Fortunately, with the right orthodontic approach, these issues can often be resolved in as little as six months.
Wondering if orthodontics might be right for you? Consider whether you’ve experienced any of these common issues:
- Overbite: Your upper teeth protrude significantly beyond your lower teeth.
- Spacing: Noticeable gaps or spaces between your teeth.
- Underbite: Your lower teeth extend further forward than your upper teeth.
- Crowding: Teeth overlap or are so close together that flossing becomes difficult.
- Crossbite: Your upper and lower teeth do not align properly when your mouth is closed.
- Pain: Persistent headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in the upper back and neck.
If any of these concerns sound familiar, orthodontic treatment may be the solution to achieving a healthier, more confident smile.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are several orthodontic treatment options available to suit your unique needs and budget. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Traditional Braces
When you think of braces, you might picture bulky metal brackets and wires. However, modern braces have come a long way. Today’s dental brackets are sleeker, less noticeable, and just as effective. They are designed for easier cleaning and enhanced comfort throughout your treatment.
Clear Brackets
If you prefer the effectiveness of traditional braces but want a more discreet look, clear brackets are an excellent choice. Especially popular among adults, these brackets blend seamlessly with your natural smile, making them virtually invisible at a glance. You can confidently undergo orthodontic treatment without drawing attention to your braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular and virtually invisible orthodontic option. These custom-made, transparent trays are designed to gradually shift your teeth into perfect alignment. They fit snugly over your teeth and offer the convenience of being removable for eating, brushing, and flossing. Whether you have an important meeting or a special event, you can easily take them out, making clear aligners a flexible and appealing choice for enhancing your smile.
The Cost Of Orthodontic Treatment In Calgary
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in both your oral health and the aesthetics of your smile. Understanding the associated costs is essential for informed decision-making.
- With Insurance: Out-of-pocket expenses typically range from $3,000 to $5,000+, depending on your coverage.
- Without Insurance: Costs generally range from $4,000 to $6,000+.
To provide an accurate estimate, we recommend scheduling an initial oral exam. This allows us to assess your specific needs and outline potential out-of-pocket expenses based on your insurance coverage.
Determining the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment
Several factors influence the cost of orthodontic care:
- Oral Health Condition: The initial state of your teeth and gums plays a significant role in determining treatment complexity.
- Movement Required: The degree of tooth movement needed affects both the complexity and duration of the treatment.
- Type of Treatment: Options range from traditional braces to modern clear aligners, each with different price points.
- Treatment Duration: Longer treatment times generally lead to higher costs.
Every smile is unique, which is why the best way to determine the right treatment and its cost is through a consultation. During this visit, we will discuss your smile goals, thoroughly examine your teeth, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and desires.
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
While it is beneficial to start orthodontic treatment at a younger age—typically when children are still growing and before all permanent teeth have erupted—orthodontic care is not limited by age. We recommend that parents bring their teens in for a consultation to determine the optimal timing for treatment. However, adults can also benefit from orthodontics. Regardless of age, it is never too late to achieve a healthier, more aligned smile.
Braces do not cause pain when they are first applied. However, as they begin to move your teeth into alignment, you may experience some discomfort or pressure. Most patients describe this sensation as more of an annoyance than actual pain. If you experience significant discomfort or pain, please let us know so we can help alleviate the issue.
Yes, to protect your braces and maintain good oral hygiene, certain foods should be avoided. Hard or sticky foods, such as candy apples, caramel, and corn on the cob, can damage braces. Sticky or hard-to-clean foods like gum and popcorn should also be avoided. It is advisable to limit sugary or acidic foods as they can cling to teeth and increase the risk of cavities. For those with clear braces, it is important to be mindful of staining foods, including beets, curry, and brightly coloured dishes like Kraft Dinner.
If you experience any breakage or damage to your braces or aligners, contact us immediately. Do not wait until your next scheduled appointment. Addressing the issue promptly can prevent further complications and keep your treatment on track.
Flossing with braces can be challenging, but using the right tools makes it easier. Floss threaders and super floss are specially designed to navigate around braces and permanent retainers effectively. During your next appointment, we will gladly show you how to use these tools to maintain optimal oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
The length of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. For minor adjustments, treatment can take as little as six months. However, for most patients, braces are typically needed for six months to two years, depending on the specific changes required. During your initial consultation, our team will provide a personalized treatment timeline based on your unique needs and goals.
