
Teeth-Straightening Solutions from the Teenage Years and Beyond
By the age of 13, most children have lost their baby teeth, and it becomes easier to identify areas of overcrowding or where permanent teeth are coming in crooked. This is the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment, as they are still adjusting to their adult smile.
While we love enhancing the natural beauty of a smile, orthodontic treatment is crucial for your teen’s oral health. Misaligned teeth and a crooked bite can make cleaning difficult, cause discomfort, and even lead to aches and pains. Orthodontic treatment can resolve these issues in as little as 6 months.
- An overbite – when the upper teeth sit too far forward
- Excessive spacing – gaps or spaces between the teeth
- An underbite – when the lower teeth sit too far forward
- Crowding – when teeth overlap or are hard to floss
- Crossbite – a bite that doesn’t align comfortably
- Pain – chronic headaches, jaw pain, or upper back and neck discomfort
Your teen might benefit from orthodontic treatment if they have:
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are various treatment options available, tailored to each patient’s needs and budget. Here are a few options to consider:
Traditional Braces
When people think of braces, they often imagine bulky metal brackets and wires. Today’s modern brackets are smaller, more discreet, and just as effective as older designs. They are easier to clean and much more comfortable than traditional braces.
Clear Brackets
For those who want the effectiveness of traditional braces with added discretion, we offer clear brackets. These are especially popular among young adults, as they combine the benefits of conventional orthodontics with a more subtle appearance. At a quick glance, they’re barely noticeable.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, have become increasingly popular. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually shift teeth into place. They fit snugly and precisely, can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, and offer flexibility for special occasions like school dances or class presentations.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Stouffville
With a typical insurance plan, orthodontic treatment generally averages between $3,000 and $5,000+ out-of-pocket. After your oral exam, we will provide you with an accurate quote, so you can determine how much your insurance plan will cover and what your actual out-of-pocket expenses will be. Without insurance, orthodontic treatment typically costs between $4,000 and $6,000+.
How is the cost of orthodontic treatment determined and why does it seem so expensive?
- The current condition of the patient’s oral health, including teeth and gums
- The amount of movement needed for the teeth
- The type of orthodontic treatment chosen
- The duration of the treatment
Several factors affect the cost of orthodontic treatment:
Since every smile is unique, the best way to determine the ideal treatment and its cost is to schedule a consultation. After an examination, we will create a personalized treatment plan that outlines a timeline and accurate cost for your specific needs.
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 ideally recommended for younger patients, before most adult teeth have erupted. However, we encourage parents to bring their teens in for a consultation. Don’t worry—there are also orthodontic options for adults, and it’s never too late to start!
Braces typically don’t cause pain when first applied, though some discomfort may be felt once they start shifting your teeth. Most patients describe it as more of an annoyance than actual pain. If you experience pain or discomfort, let us know—we have solutions to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Avoid foods that could damage your braces, like candy apples, caramel, or corn on the cob. Steer clear of sticky foods like caramel, gum, and popcorn, as they can be difficult to clean from braces. Also, avoid sugary or acidic foods, which can be harder to remove from your teeth. Clear braces may stain from foods like beets, curry, or Kraft dinner.
Call us immediately—don’t wait until your next appointment. We can help resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Floss threaders and super floss are specially designed to help you floss around your braces or permanent retainers. We’d be happy to demonstrate the proper flossing technique at your next appointment.
For minor adjustments, orthodontic treatment can take as little as 6 months. However, for most patients, braces are worn for between 6 months and 2 years. After your oral exam, we can provide a more accurate estimate based on your individual needs.