What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is the dental specialty that includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and correction of dental irregularities, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures. These may involve crowded, protruded and misaligned teeth, as well as poor or mismatched jaw relationships.

What is an orthodontist?  What is a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics?

An orthodontist, or a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics, is a dental specialist who has received three additional years of full-time academic schooling in order to achieve the highest level of technical proficiency and orthodontic expertise.

As a certified specialist, Dr. Chow’s practice is strictly dedicated to orthodontics; Dr. Chow does not provide any general dental care such as check-ups, cleanings or fillings.  We will work closely with your general dentist to ensure that your orthodontic treatment will be fully integrated into your overall comprehensive oral and dental care.

Click here to learn how to become an orthodontist!

What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of 7; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself, or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?

• ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
• Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
• If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth, and floss, then remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
• Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and liquid handsoap or a commercial retainer cleanser. You may also use denture cleaner twice a week. Do not use hot, boiling water or the dishwasher.
• During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, including juice, sports drinks, and pop! (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities).
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc). See our complete list of foods to avoid and foods you can eat.
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

What are braces?

Braces are small appliances temporarily glued or bonded to your teeth.  Dr. Chow and his team will use your braces with various wires and other appliances to improve the look and feel of your smile!  There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

• Clear braces
• Ceramic braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Invisalign Invisible braces
• Traditional metal braces

Do braces hurt?

Braces do not often hurt; however, you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces. At Panorama Orthodontics, we use high-technology wires to place the lightest forces possible for tooth movements to occur.  This minimizes the discomfort as much as possible.

Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. Dr. Chow can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the complexity of the orthodontic needs, as well as each individual patient. Every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between 6 to 30 months; however, most standard treatments for teens in our office are completed in 15-20 months!  Keeping your teeth clean and wearing your elastics as directed will ensure the best possible chance that your treatment will finish on time.

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with Dr. Chow to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The fee for treatment depends on the severity and complexity of the orthodontic needs, and the anticipated length of treatment. Dr Chow is not willing to let finances stand in the way of anyone receiving treatment.  We have several different payment options, and we will find the one that best fits your budget.

Dr. Chow and his team will provide you with a treatment fee reflective of the absolute best orthodontic care available to you and your family.  A reduction in our fees would only result in a reduction in the quality of treatment and the level of care provided.  The exceptional service and unparalleled experience at your consultation is a true representation of the level of attentiveness and care that you can expect to receive from Dr. Chow and his team throughout your orthodontic treatment. 

Will my braces interfere with my school activities; like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.

How do I schedule my next appointment?

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know, and we will provide you with all of the information you need.