Teeth-Straightening Solutions from the Teenage Years and Beyond
Most children lose their baby teeth by the age of 13. Even before they lose their last few baby teeth and most of their adult teeth have come in, it’s easy to see where overcrowding might occur or where permanent teeth may grow in crooked. This is the best time to start orthodontic treatment, while they are still settling into their permanent adult smile.
While we love enhancing the natural beauty of a smile, orthodontic treatment is crucial for oral health. Misaligned teeth and a crooked bite can be difficult to clean properly, uncomfortable, and even cause aches and pains. With orthodontic treatment, these issues can be resolved in as little as six months.
Your teen might benefit from orthodontic treatment if they have:
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 are overlapping or difficult to floss.
Crossbite: a bite that doesn’t fit comfortably.
Pain: Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or upper back and neck pain.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are many treatment options available depending on the patient’s personal needs and budget. Here are some of the choices:
Traditional Braces
When you think of braces, you probably imagine bulky metal brackets with wires. However, modern dental brackets are smaller, less noticeable, and just as effective as the older, bulkier versions. They are easier to keep clean and much more comfortable.
Clear Brackets
For those looking for a less noticeable option, we offer clear brackets. These brackets are popular among young adults. They combine traditional orthodontics with discretion, and at a glance, no one will even notice the braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, have gained popularity quickly. These transparent trays gradually shift teeth into their ideal position. The aligners fit snugly and can occasionally be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, or special occasions like a school dance or presentation.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in North York
With a typical insurance plan, orthodontic treatment usually averages between $3000 and $5000 out of pocket. After an oral exam, we would be happy to provide you with an accurate quote so you can find out how much your insurance plan will cover and what your actual out of pocket expenses will be. Without insurance, orthodontic treatment typically costs about $4000 to $6000.
- The current condition of the patient’s oral health, including teeth and gums.
- How much movement the teeth need.
- The type of orthodontic treatment chosen.
- The length of the treatment.
How Do We Determine the Cost of Your Orthodontic Treatment and Why Does It Seem Expensive?
When considering the cost of orthodontics, several factors come into play:
Because each smile is unique, the best way to find out which treatment is right for you and the cost is to schedule a consultation. After an examination, a personalized treatment plan will be created with an accurate timeline and cost.
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 for younger patients before most adult teeth have arrived. If you are a parent, we recommend bringing your teen in for a consultation. But don’t worry! There are orthodontic options available for adults too! It’s never too late.
Braces do not hurt when they are first applied. After they start shifting teeth, some discomfort may occur. Most patients describe this sensation as more annoying than painful. If you experience pain or discomfort, let us know! We have solutions to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Avoid food that could damage your braces (like candy apples, caramel, or corn on the cob) or food that might be difficult to clean from braces (like gum and popcorn). It is also wise to avoid sugary or acidic foods, which can be harder to clean off your teeth. Clear braces can be stained by foods like beets, curry, or Kraft dinner.
Call us immediately! Don’t wait until your next appointment.
Floss threaders and super floss are specially designed for flossing braces or permanent retainers. We’ll be happy to show you how to floss with braces at your next appointment.
For minor changes, orthodontic treatment can take as little as 6 months, but for most patients, braces stay on for between 6 months and 2 years. After an oral exam, we can provide a more accurate estimate of your treatment duration.

