What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics, also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics, is the specialty field of dentistry focused on the treatment of dental and facial anomalies.

What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments. They have completed at least two to three additional years of training in orthodontics.

Why would someone need orthodontic treatment?

A malocclusion or “bad bite” makes patients more susceptible to tooth decay, difficulty chewing, bone loss and potential speech impairment. Orthodontics help correct these problems.

What causes orthodontic problems?

The majority of orthodontic problems are inherited. Some common orthodontic problems include:

  • Crowding
  • Spacing
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Extra or missing teeth
  • Irregularities of the face

Accidents or trauma to the face or jaw are other factors that contribute to orthodontic problems, such as:

  • Thumb or pacifier sucking
  • Dental disease
  • Premature loss of primary or permanent teeth

What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?

The Canadian and American Associations of Orthodontists recommend an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition. However, patients of any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment, including adults! One in every five orthodontic patients is over 21. You’re never too old to improve your smile!

How long will I have to wear my braces?

Treatment time obviously depends on each patient's specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from 14 to 30 months. The "average" time frame a person is in braces is approximately 21 months.

Do braces hurt?

One of the things people are most worried about when they have braces is whether or not it is going to hurt. You may get a bit of discomfort and tenderness when you first get your braces, your lips and inner cheeks may become tender as they adjust to having braces against them. Do not worry, after the first week or two, your lips and cheeks will become stronger and more resilient to the braces, and you will soon forget that you are even wearing them! If any of the brackets do irritate your lips or cheeks, you can apply orthodontic wax to the bracket to provide a smooth coating for your lips and cheeks to rub against. If you run out of wax, stop by our office anytime for a free refill. Once you get used to them, you will hardly know they are there.



Sudbury Orthodontics

  • Sudbury Location - 250 Notre Dame Ave., Sudbury, ON P3C 5K5 Phone: 705-671-6261
  • Parry Sound Location - 5 Bowes St., Parry Sound, ON P2A 2K7 Phone: 705-746-9311
  • Espanola Location - 91 Tudhope Street, Espanola, ON P5E 1S6 Phone: 705-869-0880
