Orthodontic Information

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires the professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.

Finding an orthodontic specialist in British Columbia for you or your child is really quite easy.

1) Search our directory to find an orthodontist in your area
2) Ask your family dentist

As you consider your options, keep in mind that members of the British Columbia Society of Orthodontists are orthodontic specialists. They have met the exacting standards of education and experience set by the Canadian and American Dental Associations.

It may be a new word to you. "Malocclusion" is a technical term for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth which do not fit together properly. Literally, the word means "bad bite."Most malocclusions are inherited. These include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, cleft palate and a variety of irregularities of the jaws and face.Some malocclusions are acquired. They can be caused by thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, dental disease, premature loss of primary or permanent teeth, accidents or some medical problems.Left untreated, these orthodontic problems can become worse. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that may cause tooth decay, eventual gum disease and tooth loss. A bad bite can also cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and excess stress of the supporting bone and gum tissue.

Bad bites (malocclusions) are often passed down through families. Some may be caused by birth defects, such as cleft lips and palates. Bad bites can also be caused by the following:
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- Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting as a child
- Extra, lost, impacted or abnormally shaped teeth
- Dental fillings, crowns, appliances, retainers, or braces that don't fit well
- Injury to the face and/or jaw
- Tumors of the face and jaw

Orthodontists specialize in correcting the position of teeth by using braces and other appliances.  We're part of team of dental professionals that includes:
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‍Dentists: responsible for general dental health, including filings, crowns, dentures, teeth cleaning and whitenings.
‍Pedodontists: dentists that treat children
‍Prosthodontists: specialists in restoring damaged teeth with crowns and veneers; replacing missing teeth with bridges and dentures; and placing dental implants.
‍Endodontists: specialists in performing root canal treatments
‍Periodontists: specialists in preventing and treating gum disease and placing dental implants

Orthodontists, pedodontists, prosthodontists, endodontists and periodontists are specialists, which means they have additional education, training and experience in their area.

It is wise for a consumer to investigate the value of any product or service. Most orthodontic patients will give it to you straight – orthodontics is one of the best investments they've ever made. Better self-esteem and better oral health are benefits that can last a lifetime.A BCSO member will be glad to have you talk to current or former patients, who can tell you firsthand how braces have improved their lives.

The length of treatment will depend on the individuals needs of each person. Generally, treatments may last 6 months to 2 or more years, depending on the severity of the case.

No. Because healthy teeth can be moved at any age, an orthodontic specialist can improve the smile of practically anyone - in fact, orthodontic specialists regularly treat patients in their 50s, 60s and older.

At one time, most people believed braces were "just for kids." The fact is, that of the thousands of Canadians now in orthodontic treatment, more than one of every four is over 21. Because the basic process involved in moving teeth is the same in adults as in children, orthodontic treatment can usually be successful at any age. The health of the teeth, the gums and the supporting bones will also determine the prospects for improvement.

So who can benefit? Most anyone, really. The truth is you're never too old to be your best. Regardless of age, orthodontic treatment is always a change for the better.

While it's important to keep in mind the lifetime value that orthodontics offers, we know you have specific cost questions, so don't be afraid to ask. You may discover the price tag is considerably lower than you ever thought. Cost, of course, depends on the nature of the problem. Many orthodontic problems require only limited treatment.

Your orthodontic specialist will be happy to discuss fees. He or she may offer payment plans to help meet individual financial needs. In addition, many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits for just a few dollars a month.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should see an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. In some cases, this could be as young as 2 or 3. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean a patient will avoid surgery or other more serious corrections later in life.

It is wise for a consumer to investigate the value of any product or service. Most orthodontic patients will give it to you straight – orthodontics is one of the best investments they've ever made. Better self-esteem and better oral health are benefits that can last a lifetime.A BCSO member will be glad to have you talk to current or former patients, who can tell you firsthand how braces have improved their lives.