Cosmetic advantages are one of the biggest pulls for getting orthodontic treatment. There are so many benefits (in addition to your health) when it comes to improving the alignment of your teeth.

What are some cosmetic reasons people choose orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be used to address various dental irregularities, including issues with jaw development or positioning, misaligned teeth, genetics, environmental factors, accidents, injuries, and other causes. These irregularities are referred to as malocclusion and can include impacted teeth, crowded or crooked teeth, and teeth with gaps or excessive space between them. In addition to causing pain and damaging long-term oral health, malocclusion can also affect confidence and self-esteem, as well as make brushing and flossing more difficult, leading to tooth discoloration, cavities, decay, gum disease, and even bone loss in severe cases.

With advances in orthodontic treatment and technology, there are now low-profile options that can discreetly address these issues while focusing on the needs of the patient. These options, such as braces and clear aligners, can help straighten teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other conditions that can affect the appearance of your smile in the long term. In many cases, the average observer would not even be able to tell that you are wearing these types of braces or aligners.

At York Mills Orthodontics, we specialize in providing holistic, non-invasive orthodontic treatment to establish an overall balance for dentofacial health. While orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics are dental specialties recognized by the Canadian Dental Association, cosmetic dentistry is not. We do not offer cosmetic dental services, but many dentists do provide treatments such as bonding or veneers. If you are interested in these options, we recommend speaking with your dentist to determine if you are a candidate.

 

Options for Orthodontic Treatment

At York Mills Orthodontics, we often hear from people, including adults, who express embarrassment about their teeth and ask how we can help. The specific approach that we recommend will depend on your particular orthodontic issue. Some potential options include conventional metal braces, translucent (ceramic) braces, coloured braces (to match your style), and Invisalign clear aligners. Your orthodontist can explain the pros and cons of each option, provide details on what to expect during treatment, and help you decide on the one that best fits your lifestyle, needs, and other circumstances.

 

What about orthodontics for kids and teens?

As children grow and become more concerned about their appearance, it may be helpful to emphasize the aesthetic benefits of orthodontic treatment when trying to get them on board. For children between the ages of 5 and 11, we take a preventive approach to orthodontic treatment. At this young age, the jaw is still developing and we can often guide healthy development by addressing orthodontic issues early. This early detection and proactive intervention are crucial for your child’s future oral health and can lead to a straighter smile in the future.

Depending on your child’s specific orthodontic issue, our orthodontists may recommend palatal expansion to widen the upper jaw and reduce issues such as teeth crowding, crossbite, and more. Orthodontic treatment for children may include braces, Invisalign First, or a retainer or dental appliance recommended by one of our orthodontists in North York.

By age 12, most or all of a child’s permanent teeth have typically emerged and are in place. If your teenager’s speech, confidence, or other aspects of their life are affected by orthodontic issues, this can be a good time to start addressing them with orthodontic treatment. Like with adults, orthodontic treatment can not only support long-term oral health, but also positively impact your teenager’s self-image and self-confidence by correcting bite issues, shifting the alignment of teeth, and improving aesthetics.

While there is no such thing as cosmetic dentistry for children, many teenagers are motivated to invest their time in straightening their smile with braces, Invisalign Teen, or another orthodontic treatment option for cosmetic reasons.

At York Mills Orthodontics, we understand that each patient and their needs and concerns are unique. Whether you are considering orthodontic treatment as an adult or are thinking about orthodontic treatment for children or teenagers, we are here to guide you. Contact us for a consultation at our clinic in North York!