FAQ

Malocclusion is the technical term for crooked teeth that don’t fit or align correctly. Typically, this scenario occurs because of a problem with the jaws or teeth. During a consultation, Dr. Sharma determines the root cause of malocclusion and works to educate patients on the issue and possible solutions.

Some of the biggest benefits of straight teeth are improved self-esteem, self-worth and confidence. However, besides feeling like a new you, who happens to have a gorgeous smile, patients with straight teeth experience better health. Here are some reasons why:

• Crooked teeth are harder to clean and can increase the risk of tooth decay (cavities) or gum disease, especially if there is crowding or irregular spacing between teeth. With straight teeth, brushing and flossing is much easier.
• Chewing is more difficult with crooked teeth. Dental research shows that patients with crooked teeth have decreased chewing efficiency and this may lead to nutritional deficiencies and overall health problems.
• Crooked teeth are not in their ideal position and irregular biting puts a strain on the jaw bones. Over time, this can damage the gums and bones and may result in a loss of teeth. Straightening teeth ensures that the forces delivered to the bones are tolerable and therefore, healthier.
• An overbite or protrusion of the upper teeth puts them at risk of trauma or damage. By bringing them back into their ideal position, it is less likely they will be in harm’s way.
• Patients with deep bites, where the bottom teeth are hidden, often bite directly on the palate (the gums on the inside of the upper teeth). Over time, this can cause damage to the gums and the bones that support the upper front teeth.
• Patients with crossbites (when the upper teeth are behind the lower teeth) can suffer from long-term changes in skeletal growth. Teeth do not line up properly and the lower jaw can be deflected to the front or side. Over time, this deflection can become permanent.

The mouth is a dynamic environment and is constantly changing. Misaligned teeth continue to worsen as time progresses and crowded teeth become more congested while spacing increases. By delaying treatment, you’ll add time and costs to your treatment when you eventually go through with it.

Both the Canadian and American Association of Orthodontists recommend that you take your child to be seen no later than age seven. This proactive and preventative method enables certain problems to be discovered before they even exist. The result is an easier treatment for a child.

This is not to say that braces are a sure thing at the age of seven or that braces are only for those in this age group. In fact, if your child is not ready for treatment or if everything is normal, Dr. Sharma will regularly monitor a child’s teeth until it is the right time for treatment.

Are you too old to smile? Are you too old to enjoy life? We hope the answers to those are no! While at Aura Orthodontics we try to infuse a bit of humour into this question, the truth is we believe a better smile is always a great step to a better you and you’re never too old for braces. Adult celebrities have really made having braces after your teenage years mainstream. There’s no longer any stigma attached to adult braces. Also, the many developments in technology mean there are a wide variety of treatment options. Recent research shows that adult orthodontics is the fastest growing type of orthodontic treatment.

Absolutely not. You can call us directly for a consultation! Contact us here.

First impressions matter and we take this seriously. You’ll be greeted by our friendly staff and can hang out briefly in our comfortable, soothing waiting area. Then, the very cordial Dr. Sharma will chitchat with you and examine your teeth. We’ll take photos and create a treatment plan that takes into account different variables, including the diagnosis, lifestyle, budget, etc. From there, Dr. Sharma will discuss all of your options, answer your questions and outline the next steps.

Ahh. Our most popular question! Unfortunately, there are no hard and fast rules about the cost of braces. The final price is based on several factors like the complexity of your case, how long treatment will take and which type of appliances you choose (metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign®). All of these variables make it difficult to quote a single number. Rest assured that during the consultation with Dr. Sharma, financial figures will be discussed in depth. At Aura Orthodontics, we work together with our patients to ensure treatment is affordable and payment options are flexible. We offer interest-free financing and accept cash, cheque, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and debit. We accept the following insurance including Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, Great West Life, and Manulife.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us here.

Invisalign really benefits those who are self-conscious about the look of braces. They’re nearly invisible and people won’t even notice you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment making them perfect for executives and other adults, as well as teens. Invisalign’s clear aligners won’t pinch or cut your gums or cheeks the way braces can. They’re also convenient as they can be removed to eat and brush and floss your teeth.

This is the start of something very exciting! We begin the whole process, which takes on average an hour and a half, by polishing your teeth. We use a special solution to gently roughen the surface of the teeth to ensure the glue sticks properly. After applying the adhesive and placing the brackets in their specific positions, we insert the wire and then show you how your new braces look. We snap a few pictures and give you instructions on how to take care of your braces including how to brush, what to eat and what to expect throughout your treatment. We understand it’s a new experience, so don’t be surprised when you get a call from us later to see how things are going.

This is a momentous occasion and after we high-five you on your achievement, we get to work on removing your braces. We have special instruments to painlessly remove the brackets and don’t worry, it’s a cinch! From there, we polish and clean your teeth so you can enjoy your dazzling new smile. If you agree, we’ll take a few pictures to add to our Wall of Fame.

Did you know that if a retainer is not worn, teeth shift back to their crooked positions within a few weeks or months? It’s true. A retainer acts as a bridge to lifelong straight teeth and is designed to hold teeth in a certain position after your braces are removed. Aura Orthodontics customizes retainer usage instructions for each patient, however, in general, you’ll eventually reach the point where you only need to wear it a few nights per week.