Straighten Teeth and Improve Your Smile
As your permanent teeth begin to come in, it’s an ideal time to address any alignment issues. This is crucial for preventing problems such as crooked teeth or overcrowding.
Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign or braces play a key role in guiding teeth during this developmental stage. At Guelph Family Dentistry, our team will help you choose the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs. Many treatments can be completed efficiently, often in around 6 months, setting the foundation for a healthy, confident smile.
Consider Orthodontic Treatment If You’re Facing Any of These Problems:
- Overbite: When your upper teeth significantly protrude over your lower teeth.
- Excessive Spacing: Noticeable gaps between your teeth that affect your smile.
- Underbite: When your lower teeth extend too far forward compared to your upper teeth.
- Crowding: Overlapping teeth or tight spaces that make flossing difficult.
- Crossbite: Misalignment between your upper and lower teeth causing discomfort.
- Pain: Persistent headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in your upper back and neck.
The Different Types of Orthodontic Treatments for Teens
Traditional Braces
Gone are the days when metal braces were bulky and uncomfortable. Today’s traditional braces are much more streamlined and discreet. Modern braces feature smaller, more refined brackets and wires, making them easier to clean and maintain compared to older designs. Despite these advancements, traditional braces continue to be a highly dependable option for effective teeth correction, providing reliable results for a variety of alignment issues.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for orthodontic treatment due to their convenience and subtle appearance. These aligners offer a significant advantage in terms of oral hygiene, as they can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning. They also reduce the frequency of orthodontic visits compared to traditional braces. The aligners are made of clear plastic, making them less visible and more comfortable to wear, providing a nearly invisible corrective option for those seeking a less noticeable treatment.
Clear Brackets
For teenagers and adults who want the effectiveness of traditional braces without the conspicuous metal appearance, clear brackets are an excellent alternative. Clear brackets use the same mechanical principles as traditional braces but are made from transparent materials. This results in a subtler appearance that is less noticeable in everyday life, combining the efficiency of braces with a more aesthetically pleasing look.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Guelph
Orthodontic treatment in Guelph typically ranges between $3,000 and $5,000+ out-of-pocket with most insurance plans. To determine the exact cost and what your insurance plan will cover, we recommend scheduling an oral exam. Following this exam, we will provide you with a detailed quote, outlining your insurance coverage and any remaining out-of-pocket expenses.
For those without insurance, the cost of orthodontic treatment for teens generally falls between $4,000 and $6,000. This estimate ensures you have a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved before starting your treatment.
When considering the cost of orthodontics, there are several important factors to take into account:
- Current Oral Health: The existing condition of the patient’s teeth and gums plays a significant role in determining the overall cost of orthodontic treatment.
- Extent of Tooth Movement: The amount of adjustment required for the teeth to align properly can affect the treatment’s complexity and cost.
- Type of Orthodontic Treatment: Different orthodontic options, such as traditional braces, clear aligners, or clear brackets, vary in cost and impact the overall expense.
- Treatment Duration: The length of time needed to achieve the desired results also influences the total cost.
Since every smile is unique, the best way to get a precise estimate for your teenager’s orthodontic treatment is to visit our Orthodontic Clinic in Guelph for a consultation. After a thorough examination, we will provide you with a detailed, personalized treatment plan that includes a clear timeline and cost breakdown.
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
Orthodontic treatment is most effective when started at a younger age, ideally before most of the adult teeth have come in. For teens, this is an ideal time to assess and address alignment issues. However, if you’re an adult, don’t worry! Orthodontic options are available for all ages, so it’s never too late to consider treatment for a straighter, healthier smile.
When braces are first applied, they don’t usually cause pain. However, as they begin to shift your teeth into the desired position, you might feel some discomfort. Most people find this sensation more annoying than painful. If you do experience discomfort, let us know—there are effective ways to make your treatment more comfortable and ensure that you have a smooth experience.
To keep your braces in top shape and avoid any potential damage, steer clear of foods that can be harmful or difficult to clean. This includes:
- Hard foods: Such as candy apples, nuts, and corn on the cob.
- Sticky foods: Like caramel, gum, and taffy.
- Sugary or acidic foods: These can make it harder to clean your teeth and may contribute to plaque buildup.
- If you have clear braces, be cautious with foods that might stain them, such as beets, curry, and certain sauces.
If you experience any breakage with your braces or aligners, contact us immediately. It’s important to address these issues as soon as possible to avoid delaying your treatment progress. Don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment—give us a call so we can help you promptly.
Flossing with braces might seem tricky at first, but there are tools that make it easier. Floss threaders and super floss are specifically designed to help you get between the wires and brackets. At your next appointment, we can demonstrate the best techniques and show you how to effectively floss with your braces.
The duration of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on your specific needs. For minor adjustments, braces might be needed for as little as 6 months. However, for more comprehensive treatment, the average time is between 6 months and 2 years. After examining your teeth and discussing your goals, we’ll provide a more precise estimate tailored to your individual treatment plan.
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