FAQs

Q: WHAT DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT INVOLVE?

Orthodontic treatment corrects malocclusions in the teeth or jaws. A malocclusion describes the misalignment of teeth due to several genetic or environmental factors. Misalignment can occur, for example, from the improper positioning of the jaw, thumb-sucking, and missing teeth.

Dental malocclusion refers to issues with teeth. Crooked, twisted, impacted, crowded or widely spaced teeth are examples of dental malocclusions. Skeletal malocclusions, by contrast, involve the jaws, which could be twisted, misaligned, or simply not the correct size for your teeth.

An examination of your bite, including x-rays of your teeth and jaws, is necessary to determine the type and extent of your malocclusion or any potential future problems with your bite. Afterwards, our doctors are able to recommend the right treatment plan for you, based on your expectations, lifestyle and severity of malocclusion.

Q: IS AN ORTHODONTIST THE SAME THING AS A DENTIST?

An orthodontist is a specialized dentist with extensive dentofacial studies. Though some dentists can attend continuing education courses to perform certain basic orthodontic procedures, more complex orthodontic cases require a specialist.

You may be referred to Dr. Boulos or Dr. Limoges by your general dentist; however, we do not require a referral for a consultation.

Q: WHY SHOULD I GET ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?

Misaligned teeth are often difficult to protect from cavities, tooth decay and plaque buildup as it’s very difficult to properly care for misaligned teeth. Gaps or tight spaces may allow for trapped food particles, which feed the bacteria on your teeth.

Q: IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT JUST FOR KIDS AND TEENAGERS?

No, nearly 25% of orthodontic cases are adults. If you have put off orthodontic treatment or if your smile has shifted out of place in adulthood, you have options to correct your smile, such as clear aligners or clear porcelain braces.

Q: WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD SEE THE ORTHODONTIST FOR THE FIRST TIME?

As per the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, the best time for your child’s first visit to the orthodontist is by age 7. Many orthodontic problems detected early can be corrected through non-surgical procedures, such as clear aligners or fixed braces.

Dr. Boulos or Dr. Limoges can determine from a brief initial consultation whether orthodontic treatment is required immediately, or in the future, and determine the ideal schedule to monitor your child’s growth and dental development. 

Q: WHAT ARE SOME COMMON PROBLEMS THAT WOULD BENEFIT FROM ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?

• Overbite: The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.
• Lower teeth protrusion: This type of bite impacts the appearance and function of your teeth. It is characterized by the lower teeth extending too far forward or the upper teeth not extending far enough forward.
• Crossbite: The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
• Openbite: Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.
• Crowding: Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times, tooth removal can be avoided.
• Spacing: Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue.
• Dental midlines not matched: This type of problem is caused when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately, which may negatively impact jaw and proper dental function.