Orthodontic Treatment for a Healthier Smile
Orthodontics focuses on the alignment of your teeth and the way your upper and lower teeth meet. Maple Ridge Dental Centre provides orthodontic assessments and treatment with wire braces for children, teenagers and adults in Maple Ridge. An examination determines whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate for you.
What Can Orthodontic Treatment Address?
Your dentist may discuss orthodontic treatment for:
- Crowded, overlapping or rotated teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth that do not meet properly
- Certain overbite, underbite or crossbite concerns
- Alignment that makes brushing or flossing difficult
Recommendations depend on your teeth, gums, bite, jaw growth and overall oral health.
How Do Wire Braces Work?
Fixed braces use brackets attached to the teeth and an arch wire that connects them. The wire applies controlled pressure to guide teeth gradually toward their planned positions. Elastics may sometimes be used to assist with tooth movements or bite corrections.
For information about clear aligners, visit our Invisalign page.
Your Orthodontic Assessment
Your dentist will examine your teeth, jaw and bite. Diagnostic records may include photographs, dental X-rays and a digital scan. We will explain the findings, recommended treatment, expected timeline, responsibilities and fees before treatment begins.
What to Expect During Treatment
Brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected by a wire. At scheduled visits, your dentist monitors your progress and adjusts the appliance. Temporary pressure or tenderness may occur after the braces are placed or adjusted.
Treatment time varies with the complexity of the correction, growth, oral health and how closely treatment instructions are followed. A retainer is generally required afterward to help maintain the new tooth positions.
Caring for Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment
Careful brushing and cleaning between teeth are important because plaque can collect around brackets and wires. Continue regular dental examinations and hygiene visits. Avoid foods that may bend wires or loosen brackets and contact the office if your appliance breaks.
Orthodontics FAQs
What if my case is complicated?
Maple Ridge Dental Centre provides nonsurgical orthodontic care. Cases requiring specialist management or possible jaw surgery will be referred to an orthodontist for further assessment.
Can adults receive orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Adults with suitable oral health may be candidates following an orthodontic assessment.
Request an Orthodontic Assessment
Request an appointment online or call Maple Ridge Dental Centre at (604) 463-2536.