Frequently Asked Questions

It is recommended that every child see an Orthodontic Specialist no later than age 7. By this time the adult teeth are starting to come in, and various problems can start to be identified and, in some cases, corrected. In rare cases, your dentist might identify a problem developing as early as age 2 or 3 and recommend a consultation with an orthodontist. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean a patient will avoid surgery or other more complex treatment later in life.

At one time, most people believed braces were “just for kids.” In reality, almost anyone can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Of the thousands of Canadians now in orthodontic treatment, more than one in four are over the age of 21. Because the basic processes involved in moving teeth are the same in adults as in children, orthodontic treatment can usually be successful at any age. The existing health of the teeth, gums and supporting bones will also be a consideration for the success of treatment. Regardless of age, orthodontic treatment is always a change for the better.

The time it takes to correct the misalignment of teeth and/or a malocclusion depends on the severity of the problem. Simple problems may only take a few months to correct, while other more complicated problems will take several years. After your orthodontist has done a complete assessment of the problems, they will be able to give you an estimate of how long treatment will take. Remember, this is only an estimate. The final length of treatment will be determined by a patient’s individual biology and their level of cooperation.