Teeth-Straightening Solutions from the Teenage Years and Beyond
By the age of 13, most children have lost their baby teeth and developed their permanent adult smile. Even before all their adult teeth come in, it’s often easy to spot overcrowding or misalignment. This makes early orthodontic treatment ideal while their teeth are still settling.
While a beautiful smile is a great benefit of orthodontic care, proper alignment also improves oral health. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can be difficult to clean, uncomfortable, and even lead to pain. Many of these problems can be corrected in as little as six months.
- An overbite – Upper teeth sit too far forward.
- Excessive spacing – Gaps or spaces between teeth.
- An underbite – Lower teeth sit too far forward.
- Crowding – Teeth overlap or are difficult to floss.
- Crossbite – Teeth don’t align comfortably when biting down.
- Pain – Chronic headaches, jaw discomfort, or upper back and neck pain.
Your Teen Might Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment If They Have:
Starting orthodontic treatment early helps ensure a healthier, more confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are various orthodontic solutions to fit different needs and budgets. Here are a few options that may be available:
Traditional Braces
When most people think of braces, they picture bulky metal brackets and wires. However, modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and easier to clean, while still offering highly effective results.
Clear Brackets
For those looking for a more discreet option, clear brackets provide the effectiveness of traditional braces with a less noticeable appearance. These are a popular choice among teens and young adults, as they blend more naturally with the teeth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a removable and nearly invisible alternative to braces. These custom-made trays gradually shift teeth into place while allowing easy removal for eating, brushing, flossing, or special occasions like school events or presentations.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in North York
With typical insurance coverage, orthodontic treatment usually costs $3,000 to $5,000+ out-of-pocket. Without insurance, the cost typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000+. After an oral exam, we can provide a personalized quote so you can better understand what your insurance covers and what your actual out-of-pocket expenses will be.
What Determines the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment?
- The current condition of the patient’s teeth and gums.
- The amount of movement required to achieve proper alignment.
- The type of orthodontic treatment chosen.
- The estimated length of treatment.
The cost of orthodontics depends on several factors, including:
Because every smile is unique, the best way to determine the right treatment and exact cost is to schedule a consultation. After a thorough examination, we can create a customized treatment plan with an accurate timeline and pricing estimate.
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 ideal during adolescence, before all adult teeth have fully erupted. If you’re a parent, we recommend bringing your teen in for a consultation to assess their needs. But don’t worry—adults can get orthodontic treatment too! It’s never too late to improve your smile.
Braces don’t hurt when first applied, but as your teeth begin to shift, you may feel some discomfort. Most patients describe it as annoying rather than painful. If discomfort becomes an issue, let us know! There are ways to make treatment more comfortable.
Certain foods can damage braces or be difficult to clean, including:
- Hard, sticky foods like candy apples, caramel, and corn on the cob.
- Gum and popcorn, which can get stuck in brackets and wires.
- Sugary and acidic foods, which can be harder to clean off teeth.
- Staining foods like beets, curry, and Kraft Dinner for clear braces.
Call us immediately! Don’t wait until your next appointment—getting it fixed quickly prevents complications and delays in treatment.
Flossing with braces is easier with floss threaders or super floss, which are specially designed for orthodontic care. We’d be happy to show you the best flossing techniques at your next appointment.
For minor adjustments, orthodontic treatment can take as little as six months. However, most patients wear braces for six months to two years, depending on their needs. After an oral exam, we can provide a more accurate estimate for your specific case.
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