Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of Dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.  Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all the teeth.  Northbank Dental Center is pleased to provide various levels of Orthodontic treatment for patients needing teeth straightening or movement of teeth to improve the functionality of their bite.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orthodontics

Do you offer Invisalign?

Yes!  The Invisalign System is the first true alternative to traditional metal and plastic braces.  The system uses 3D imaging technology to create a series of customized clear plastic retainers that align the teeth little by little, week by week, until they reach the desired alignment.  Our Dentists at Northbank Dental Center offer the Invisalign system and can identify if Invisalign is right for you during your consultation.

When should I look for the early warning signs of a bad bite?

It is most important to examine your child's teeth as the permanent teeth grow in. Although children mature at different rates, there are some averages for permanent tooth arrival. Some signs that may indicate the need for an early orthodontic examination are:

1) early or late loss of baby teeth
2) difficulty chewing or biting
3) crowding, poorly positioned, or blocked out teeth
4) jaws that shift or make sounds
5) biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
6) teeth that do not meet at all
7) jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face
8) finger sucking or pacifier habits continued beyond the age of six

When is the best time to schedule an initial consultation?

We recommend every child should receive an orthodontic consultation at an early age. This could be as young as 2 or 3, but we recommend an initial consultation no later than age 7.  By age 7, enough permanent teeth have come in and enough jaw growth has occurred, that problems can be identified.  Early consultation allows our Dentists to determine the optimum time for treatment to begin.  

How do braces straighten crooked teeth?

Braces use steady, gentle pressure over time to move teeth into their proper positions.  Thanks to new materials and procedures, all this happens much quicker than ever before.

Will Orthodontics change my lifestyle?

You'll have to give up extremely hard, sticky, and high sugar foods for a little while. These foods can get caught on the braces, bend wires, loosen cement and pull the braces off and/or cause cavities and permanent white marks. Soft foods or foods cut into small pieces are much better. You'll have to spend a few extra minutes cleaning your braces after meals. 

How long do you have to wear braces?

That depends a lot on you and how bad your bite is to begin with. Complex/severe bad bites take longer. The national average is 27 months. The better you are at following your Dentist's instructions and taking care of your braces, the sooner your teeth will improve.