Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of treatment?

For most people, a beautiful smile is the most apparent benefit of Orthodontics. However, Orthodontic treatment can make a tremendous life-long positive change in the appearance of a person’s oral health and overall well-being. Straight teeth and a healthy bite make it easier to maintain oral hygiene and can improve the long-term health of the teeth and gums.

What is an Orthodontist?

Orthodontists evaluate and correct problems related to the growth and development of teeth and jaws.

Dr. Jonathan Britton is a certified specialist in Orthodontics, which requires three additional years of full-time training following dental school to ensure the highest level of technical proficiency and expertise. In addition, orthodontists in Ontario must be provincially licensed and certified by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario.

At what age should my child see an Orthodontist?

Your child should visit an Orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child’s physician. Many Orthodontic concerns are easier to correct if seen at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Therefore, early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid a more complicated treatment later.

Suppose treatment is not indicated at the initial consultation but is anticipated in the future. In that case, we will follow your child’s growth with biannual check-ups until they are ready to begin treatment at the optimum time. Initial consultations and checkups are complimentary.

Can an Orthodontist work on an adult?

Orthodontic treatment absolutely does work for adults. In fact, it is becoming more and more common for adults to seek Orthodontic care to improve their oral health and appearance. Even if you had no issues as a youth, your teeth and jaw can shift throughout adulthood, causing crowding, gaps, and misaligned bites.

It’s never too late to consider orthodontics as a way to improve your smile, and our office treats many adult patients. For those patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their smiles, we recommend a complimentary consultation to evaluate the best available treatment options.

Do I need a referral to see an Orthodontist?

No! At Britton Orthodontics, we are always happy to accept new patients. Referrals from colleagues are welcome but not a requirement to see the doctor.

What can I expect at my consultation?

We look forward to meeting you at your initial visit! This appointment will allow you to get acquainted with our office and earn about your Orthodontic needs.

Your first visit is complimentary and will include:
  • Review of your medical and dental history
  • Digital photos
  • A comprehensive examination
  • Whether orthodontic treatment would be beneficial either now or in the future
  • What treatment would involve and the approximate treatment time
  • Our professional fees and flexible payment options
You will be able to have all of your questions answered so that you may make a well-informed decision.

What are phase I and phase II treatments?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. This treatment typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 10 and may be recommended to:
  • Make more space for developing teeth
  • Adjust crossbites, overbites, and underbites
  • Correct harmful oral habits
Phase II treatment, or comprehensive treatment, involves full braces when all permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of 11 and 13.

How long does treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to three years. Actual treatment time can be affected by the patient’s growth rate and the severity of the correction necessary. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important to adhere to the treatment schedule.

How much does treatment cost?

The cost of treatment varies and depends on the treatment option you choose, the duration of treatment, and the complexity of your oral health. After a comprehensive examination and discussion of your treatment goals, we will provide a quote at your initial consultation.

Our office does not want finances to stand in the way of pursuing a beautiful smile. For this reason, we offer flexible payment options to help meet your needs. Many insurance plans include Orthodontic insurance, but as insurance policies vary, you should investigate your coverage before your initial visit.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

You should continue seeing your general dentist every six months for cleanings and dental checkups.