Orthodontic Dentistry in Downtown Toronto

Dental braces (also known as braces, orthodontic brackets and wires) are devices used in orthodontics that align and straighten teeth in order to improve a person’s bite and tooth position, while also working to improve overall dental health. They are often used to correct underbites, as well as malocclusions, overbites, open bites, deep bites, cross bites, crooked teeth, and various other flaws of the teeth and jaw. Braces can be either cosmetic or structural. Dental braces are often used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances to help widen the palate or jaws in order to achieve final optimum result and dental health.

Dr. Jennifer believes in proper expansion of the palate and jaw to obtain optimum functional health rather than the typical surgical approach of serial extractions. She also believes in early childhood orthodontic intervention by guiding and modifying a child’s growth and development to achieve the best outcome.

Dr. Jennifer is experienced with both Invisalign and Dental braces. Therefore, at the orthodontic consultation, Dr. Jennifer can give you options and will let you know which treatment can provide you with the best result.

If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them for?

It depends on many factors that determine how long it takes for your teeth to regain alignment. Most patients can expect to wear braces for one to two years, while some patients only need a few months and others may take three or more years.

Your age, the degree of misalignment, and the type of braces you choose all play a role in how long you have to wear your braces for. If you have other problems like an overbite or an underbite, it may take longer to fix those issues as well.

Your dentist will provide a comprehensive assessment that determines the severity of your teeth and how long you can expect to wear braces. Of course, you may end up wearing them for longer or shorter based on how well your teeth respond to the braces.

How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?

It’s important to always maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces or a retainer because you don’t want residue of your food and other substances to stay on your teeth. Otherwise, you could be prone to tooth decay and infections.

One of the best ways to take care of your teeth is to brush your teeth after every meal. If you have to go to school or work, pack a toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste in your bag for lunch time. Brushing your teeth after every meal ensures there’s no food stuck in between your braces. It’s also important to floss at least once a day to get rid of built up plaque. Your dentist will most likely give you small brushes so you can clean in between each brace.

When you wear your retainers, it’s important to wash them periodically. For example, if you wear night retainers, clean them every morning when you take them off. Your retainers sit against your teeth and can quickly build up lots of bacteria if you don’t clean them properly.

Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?

Brushing your teeth after every meal is a good habit to have, but it’s even more important when you have braces. Normally, brushing in the morning and at night suffices to help you maintain good oral hygiene. With braces, you’re more likely to get food and other substances stuck in between each brace. Brushing your teeth more often can prevent these substances from lingering on your teeth and causing infections.

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes, you should still get checkups every six months. Your dentist will check the progress of your braces, readjust them, and determine if you need them for longer or can take them off soon.

How much do braces cost in Toronto?

The average cost of braces in Toronto is $3,500 to $8,700. It depends if you’re a child or adult, the type of braces you use, and what you’re trying to correct.