Searching for orthodontic treatment for your child’s teeth is something that many parents will face.

That is likely why you typed “dental braces treatment for kids near me” into Google.

How do you know who is the best?

Where will your kids get the treatment that is most effective for them?

The great news is that the Calgary orthodontist scene is large and varied. You will find an orthodontist in Calgary where you feel comfortable with the doctor, the solutions provided and the care you receive.

So, how do you pick?

You could ask your family dentist who they recommend.

You could ask friends and family if they like the orthodontist they have seen.

You could Google orthodontic offices near you and read the reviews that are posted.

The surest way to know you have found a great orthodontist in Calgary, is to go and meet a few of them.

None of the orthodontists require a referral from your dentist to come in. Anyone can see any orthodontist in the city.

Like in every profession, each doctor will have a different way of doing things and treating people.

You can find an office that feels like home. A place where you are treated with kindness and respect and given all the time you need to ask questions and make decisions.

There should never be any pressure to get going right this minute, and you should feel fully informed about treatment options, pricing, payment plans, and ideal timing of care.

Types of Braces

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces have been around for well over one hundred years. They consist of small metal braces that are glued onto the teeth. A metal wire connects the braces and moves them into a straighter position.

Ceramic Braces

Clear braces are generally made of ceramic. They work exactly the same as metal braces except they are not metal. Some people like the look of ceramic braces as they are more subtle on the teeth.

Keep in mind that although they are tooth coloured, clear braces are larger in size on the tooth because ceramic is not as strong as metal.

Lingual Braces

Braces that are on the tongue-side of the teeth are called lingual braces. They are made of metal and still work the same way as the other types of braces.

Family Braces

In Calgary, you will hear about family braces all of the time. We consider family braces to be braces that can be used for the whole family.

One of the great things about orthodontic treatment is that it can be done at any age. Everyone in the family can have straight teeth and a great bite.

Wearing Braces

Braces are put on teeth if the top or bottom teeth have bite problems or are crooked.

Permanent teeth or adult teeth are the most likely to have braces glued to them. Baby teeth can be moved with braces, but this is rarely necessary.

Do Braces Hurt?

Some discomfort can be expected with braces. The mouth and jaw are involved, and most patients will have an adjustment period when things don’t feel great.

We use the Dental Pain Eraser to help with discomfort, but soft foods that require less chewing, cold foods, Tylenol and Advil also work to help patients cope.

Most patients begin to feel much better by the second week. Every child is different, so check with your children to see what they need.

Dental braces treatment for kids near you is easy to find.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment means doing some teeth correction before all of the adult teeth are present in the mouth.

This early treatment is only recommended when there are problems involving teeth and/or bones that can not be fixed in older orthodontic patients.

We consider early orthodontic intervention to be in children ages 7-10. It is impossible to do complete treatment at this age, so teen treatment options will need to be presented at age 12-14 for all of these children.

Early correction of bite issues can turn complex cases into easy ones.

Early Bite Correction

Oral appliances may be needed at a young age for certain types of bites.

Underbites most often require early orthodontic treatment. Oral health can be compromised if an underbite is not corrected early.

Gum disease is more common, as are crooked teeth and jaws that look out of balance with the rest of the face.

You should take your little one in for a free consultation if they have an underbite or any teeth that are biting on the wrong side of the other teeth.

Space Maintainers

Sometimes a child has lost baby teeth earlier than ideal due to tooth decay or crooked teeth.

Baby teeth are responsible for holding space in the mouth for the adult teeth to grow in (nature’s space maintainer). If they are not present to do their job, the other teeth move around to take up the space and a bigger problem is created.

Dental professionals need to place a custom made oral appliance to stop this from happening.

This will result in a more healthy smile when the time comes for full treatment.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are just that, traditional. They are considered the analog of orthodontics – as opposed to the digital world of Invisalign and LightForce braces.

Although there is nothing wrong with traditional metal braces, orthodontic treatment has evolved a lot over the last 30 years and there are many, more hi-tech options available.

At your initial consultation, be sure to ask about what new advances the office is using.

Permanent Teeth

Permanent teeth are your adult teeth. These are the teeth that will create your beautiful smile.

When we talk about oral health, we are talking about your teeth and soft tissues.

Treatments like getting braces to put your teeth into the desired position, are designed with the teeth you will have as a teenager in mind.

Whether it’s braces or Invisalign, metal brackets or ceramic ones, your smile and jaw position will be expertly corrected for your oral health and self esteem.

Dentistry and Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry. It involves only the movement of teeth and jaws for children and adults.

Your dentist provides dentistry for kids and adults. This involves all aspects of your child’s teeth and gums, such as check-ups, cavities, cleanings, and tooth removal.

Your dentist may provide Invisalign treatments for kids and adults. However, these treatments are not being provided with specialist knowledge and training.

As a family, you will have to decide whether or not you want the capabilities of an orthodontic specialist.

Dental Braces Treatment For Kids

Near Me

Straight Teeth at Impact Orthodontics

With no hidden fees, a stress free, warm and caring environment, treatment at Impact Orthodontics couldn’t be easier.

We would love to meet you and your kids to discuss their smiles and whether Invisalign or braces is better for them.

X rays are included for free in the new patient exam and we will send them along to your general dentist so they do not need to retake them.

Kids are our passion and we look forward to meeting yours so we can help their smile be the best it can be.

You can book your free new patient exam (no referral needed) by calling or texting us at 403-256-7797 or booking online.

See you soon!

Often, as the permanent teeth begin to grow into the mouth, parents start to think about braces for their child’s teeth. This leads them to Google “orthodontic braces for kids near me”.

Crooked teeth are very common in kids and teens as baby teeth are usually smaller than adult teeth. This size discrepancy becomes apparent as early as age 6 or 7 and as late as 12 or 13.

We have great news for you!

Every orthodontist in Calgary treats all ages with braces and other orthodontic appliances.

We recommend every child see an orthodontist around the age of 7 to have their upper and lower teeth and bite checked.

This visit is a free consultation and our orthodontists will let you know if your child requires orthodontic treatment.

What Should You Look For In An Orthodontist?

Orthodontic treatment is something that takes place over many years and it is important that you feel good about the provider you choose for your family.

A practice that is located close, orthodontists with good reviews, providers that offer several treatment options, and people that are kind, treat you well and do not rush you are important factors.

You do not need a referral to see an orthodontist near you, so ask around and/or do some Google research and then check a few of them out.

We highly encourage people to get multiple opinions so they are positive they have made the right choice for their family.

Orthodontic Treatment

When people talk about orthodontic treatment, they can be talking about many things.

Orthodontists use a variety of appliance types to correct the position of teeth and jaws.

It’s not just about a straight smile. Having your teeth and bite in the right place means an improvement in your oral health. It can even prevent gum disease.

Invisalign Treatment

One of the orthodontic services that most orthodontists provide is Invisalign or clear aligner treatment.

They can be used at a young age and prevent tooth decay because they can be removed.

Treatment time and results in children, and any other patient are excellent and exactly the same as traditional braces.

Wearing Braces

Braces, also known as fixed braces, because they are glued to the teeth, are well-known to most parents.

If you are looking for orthodontic braces for kids near me – this may be what you were thinking

of.

Orthodontics has been moving teeth with braces for well over 100 years.

If your treatment plan includes braces, you can expect the following:

Braces glued onto the permanent teeth.
Mild discomfort for your child (children) for the first few days to a week (ask about our Dental Pain Eraser to have pain-free orthodontics).
Brushing and flossing will be more difficult and take more time. Your child (children) are at a greater risk of dental decay when in braces.
Food restrictions (usually hard, sticky and chewy foods, and no popcorn).
Appointments every 4-8 weeks.

Early Treatment

Treatment by an orthodontist before all of the adult teeth are in the mouth is considered early treatment.

Our patients that are 7 to 10 years old generally fall into this category.

Most children do not require early treatment. The problems that we address when there is a mix of baby and adult teeth are only those that pose a risk to the health of the teeth or can not be easily treated in the teenage years.

The recommendation is for every child to see an orthodontist at the age of 7 so that the big problems can be identified and treated at the best time.

For all other children (about 85% of them), an early visit at a free consultation is just to gather information about what treatment might be needed in the teenage years and make plans for the future.

Your First Dental Visit

Your child (children) should see the dentist for the first time as soon as the first tooth appears in the mouth. Many dentists are happy to see kids at this age, but if they are uncomfortable, they will refer you to a pediatric dentist.

Dental care is health care. Good dentists will let you know when your child should go for an orthodontic evaluation. That being said, some dentists are not aware that every child should be seen around age 7.

This is one of the reasons a referral is not needed. You are welcome to contact your local orthodontists for your children. Their smile and bite are important.

Orthodontic Problems

There are many tooth and jaw problems that require the help of an orthodontist.

The most common are crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite and deep bite.

Treatment for these problems varies and there are many options available.

No two children are the same, so it is important to get the opinion of an orthodontic specialist.

Payment Plans and Hidden Fees

When you visit the orthodontist and treatment is recommended, make sure you get all of the details on payment plans.

Ask if there is any interest associated with payments.

Is a large downpayment required?

Are there any hidden fees or items that could be added later.

You should feel like the pricing structure is very transparent and easy to understand.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics?

If you are looking for a beautiful smile or better bite (or both) for your child (children), Impact Orthodontics is one of the best orthodontic practices in Calgary.

Treatment can be completed with a variety of different tools (braces, Invisalign, expanders, etc.).

We offer free consultations for children, and if you choose a payment plan, there is never any interest charged. We also do not require a large downpayment.

Come in today and discover the Impact difference! You can book online or call or text us at 403-256-7797 to get scheduled.

We can’t wait to meet you!

Are you looking for an orthodontic jaw alignment consultation near me?

This often means that you are concerned with the position of your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.

There are many ways that an orthodontist can address these concerns. At a consultation, they will cover corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery), orthodontic treatment, and involving an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, if needed.

The goal of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy dental facial relationship. This means that your upper and lower jaws are positioned over one another in a way that allows for an attractive facial appearance, and good jaw function.

Why Might You Need Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery can be needed due to birth defects, but far more commonly, it is needed due to a difference in size or position of the facial bones.

When the maxilla (upper jaw) and/or mandible (lower jaw) are in an improper bite, the teeth and jaws can not function correctly.

Your chewing function, tooth alignment, and facial aesthetics may all be compromised.

Corrective jaw surgery is always optional, but many patients choose it because they are having difficulty chewing, are struggling with oral health, or want to improve their facial profile.

Examples of Bite That Require Corrective Jaw Surgery

After a complete examination, your orthodontist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will explain what type of bite problems you have and what type of corrective jaw surgery you will benefit from.

Class III Bite (Underbite, Small Upper Jaw)

The photos below show the before (left) and after (right) of a patient who had their upper jaw moved forward to correct the bite.

Class II Bite (Overbite, Small Lower Jaw)

Bimaxillary Retrusive Bite (Upper and Lower Jaws Too Far

Back)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

If the upper jaw, lower jaw or both are set too far back in the face, it can result in a compromised airway.

The consequences of sleep apnea are significant and a maxillofacial surgeon should be consulted to determine the best plan moving forward.

The only cure for sleep apnea is corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery). In this procedure, the upper and lower jaws are moved forward to open up space in the airway.

An oral surgeon (oral and maxillofacial surgeon), an orthodontist, as well as an ENT (ear, nose and throat) doctor are all involved in planning and treating these cases.

Orthodontics Before Orthognathic Surgery

Teeth straightening will be needed if you require surgery. It is the orthodontist’s job to align the teeth within the jaw bones.

The actual surgery comes after the teeth are aligned with braces or clear aligners.

Treatment with braces takes 12-24 months for most patients. Your orthodontic treatment plan will be discussed with you including treatment options so that you are fully informed.

The orthodontist will work closely with the surgeon doing your orthognathic surgery.

Oral Surgery – What You Can Expect

Oral surgery (orthognathic surgery) is the type of corrective jaw surgery that you will have to get a beautiful smile and fix the bite problems and obstructive sleep apnea (if you have it).

When you first meet the surgeon that is doing your jaw surgery, they will take special 3D x-rays and measurements of your face and teeth. They will then discuss the risks and benefits of having jaw surgery.

Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is usually done in a hospital setting. You will stay overnight for at least one night.

Your teeth are no longer wired shut (a concern of many). You will simply have guiding elastics that hold your bite in the right place while you heal.

You will be on a liquid-only diet for 2 weeks and then on to soft-chew only for another 4 weeks.

As soon as your surgeon tells you, you can begin to eat normal foods.

Most adults will take 2-5 weeks off of work to have jaw surgery done.

Why Should You Trust Impact Orthodontics For Your Treatment?

We want your teeth to meet correctly and for your jaw’s new position to be ideal for your desires.

We can use braces or clear aligners to achieve this and we work very closely with the surgeons that do the most orthognathic surgery in the city of Calgary.

It is important that your jaw surgery is completed by a surgeon that is experienced in teeth and jaws so that your teeth meet correctly after surgery.

Come and visit us for a consultation and let us show you the Impact Orthodontics difference!

No referral is needed and we offer free consultation for anyone under 20.

You can book online here: or call or text 403-256-7797 to book a new patient exam.

It’s no surprise that you are looking for the best orthodontist in Calgary for your children.

Smiles, teeth and bites are very important and it’s only natural to be looking for an amazing orthodontic specialist.

To define the best is difficult.

The best will be different for each and every family, depending on what you are looking for.

Let’s talk about many of the aspects of orthodontic treatment and the differences you may see to help you in your search for the very best orthodontist in Calgary AB.

No Referral Needed From Your Dental Clinic

Great news! You can see any of the Calgary orthodontists without a referral from your dentists.

Dentists will not always refer you at the correct time because not every dental school does a

good job of educating it’s graduates on orthodontic problems.

A good rule of thumb is to visit orthodontists when your children are around 7 years old.

If they are older than that already, no worries. Now is better than later or never.

Free Consultation

Going in for a new patient first appointment is easy when it is free. Almost every orthodontist in Calgary offers a consultation at no charge for children.

The goal of this first visit is to advise patients on their orthodontic treatment needs.

This includes items like:

whether treatment is required
treatment plan options
cost
answering all your questions
going the extra mile to make the visit great

Orthodontics can be completed in many different ways. If you don’t like what you hear from one doctor or clinic, take your kids to see another orthodontist. You will know when you have found a good fit!

Finding your best orthodontist, Calgary might mean meeting a few of them 🙂

Family Braces

If you are looking for braces or other orthodontic care for the entire family, you’ll want to make sure that the orthodontist does treatment for all ages.

Crooked teeth straightening and bite correction can be needed at any age so you’ll want to ask about early treatment and teen or complete treatment options.

Types of Braces

What types of braces are offered by the orthodontic specialists you are seeing?

Do they have metal braces? Hidden braces? Invisalign? Damon braces? LightForce braces? Clear braces? Clear aligners like Angel or Clarity or Spark?

Having options when it comes to the types of braces available is important.

Each system asks for different things from a child at home. Some types will be easy for some children and some will be more difficult.

When there are choices, you will be able to decide what will work best for your child.

Other Orthodontic Treatments

Early treatment, jaw surgery, teens orthodontics, Invisalign, expanders, space maintainers, x rays…

There are many other appliances and treatments that the best orthodontists do.

As specialists, orthodontists can do all of the treatment required. This may be different from your family dentist because orthodontists have done more training than those practicing general dentistry.

Technology

Is the orthodontist using the latest advancements in orthodontic treatment?

Do they offer goop-free digital impressions via an intra-oral scanner?

Do they offer fully customized digital appliances?

Can they show you the before and after at your new patient appointment visit?

Do they monitor your children at home using dental monitoring technology to reduce your in-office appointments while increasing assistance to your children as needed?

The best orthodontist in Calgary for your family will have the technology and tools that you think will work well for you.

Transparent Pricing

Orthodontic services can be expensive.

Does your orthodontist offer a guarantee?

Do they offer a free consultation for your children?

Are there interest-free flexible financing options including a payment plan?

Are there any hidden fees?

Do they provide additional items that will make treatment easier like ultrasonic cleaners?

Orthodontic Care For The

Differently Abled

If we are going to talk about family braces, we need to talk about including the entire family.

Does your orthodontist see new patients that have disabilities or are neuro-divergent?

Orthodontics should be available to children, teen and adults in Calgary regardless of their abilities.

The most complex children are seen at The Alberta Children’s Hospital. Does your orthodontist have privileges at this location?

Often, the best orthodontist in Calgary will work with the more challenging children and cases.

Invisalign and Other Clear Aligners (Angel, Spark, Clarity)

Invisalign is the most well-known clear aligner on the orthodontic market.

It has had a significant impact on the treatment of patients with adult teeth.

Invisalign can straighten your smile and treat kids and adults with little discomfort or disruption to day-to-day life.

Patients love Invisalign because most patients want to keep eating all of the foods that they love throughout treatment.

Orthodontists love Invisalign because it keeps teeth healthier than metal braces or hidden braces as it can be removed for easy brushing and flossing.

Invisalign used to be the only good clear aligner on the market. Currently, you can think of

Invisalign like you would Kleenex. It is simply a brand name.

Other clear aligners like Angel aligners or Spark aligners do the same things that Invisalign can do. They can straighten crooked teeth just as well as braces to give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.

Treatment Plan Options

Orthodontics can achieve a beautiful smile in many different ways.

After taking x rays and photos and a 3D scan of your child’s teeth, your Calgary orthodontist will discuss all of the different ways that the teeth can be moved or treated.

One option that you should always be given is the option of no treatment at all. Orthodontic treatment is optional 100% of the time.

Orthodontic treatment is for the prevention of long-term tooth and bite problems. Most kids are functioning just fine with the teeth where they are right now. Nothing horrible will happen if their teeth are not moved and this should be discussed with you.

Of course, there are tremendous benefits to having teeth with a good bite and a beautiful smile – but no treatment should always be covered.

Benefits of Teeth Being Straightened

Smiles are one of the first things we notice in another.

Having a smile you can be proud of is good for self-esteem and has been scientifically proven to positively influence what others think of you.

As your dentist will also tell you, adults and kids that have straight smiles also have fewer cavities and gum disease because it is easier to keep straight teeth clean.

Straight teeth also means less dentistry over your lifetime. You are less likely to chip and crack teeth when they are in a good bite.

Teeth that bite together well are associated with fewer jaw joint complaints. This means less TMJ problems, tooth wear and headaches.

What Can Patients Expect During Treatment?

When looking for the best orthodontist, Calgary, you should be asking about comfort.

Patients do not want there to be pain during treatment if possible.

Ask if they use the Dental Pain Eraser. This device helps patients with all discomfort related to orthodontic tooth movement. It is almost like a magic wand.

Patients that have less discomfort during treatment will report better outcomes and more satisfaction with their braces.

Are There Place You Can See What Other People Think About The Best Orthodontist, Calgary?

You bet! Check out Google reviews for the orthodontists in your area.

Other than, Family Braces, all of the other orthodontists in Calgary do not remove bad reviews from their Google business listing.

You can trust what other families think of these other offices.

Facebook Mom groups are another great place to ask for recommendations.

Friends and family may also be a fantastic resource.

Honestly, if you are unsure, go and visit a few yourself. You will know which is the best fit after your experiences. If you feel pressured, or rushed, seek out another opinion.

Your relationship with your orthodontist is a long one. It should feel easy, friendly, kind, caring and special.

Why Families Choose Impact Orthodontics

We care about your smile as much as the journey to that smile.

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, top of the line technology and an experience that can not be compared to any other orthodontic office in Calgary.

Come in today to experience the Impact Orthodontics difference!

New patient exams can be booked by calling or texting (403)256-7797 or visiting our website here: https://impactortho.com/book-appointment/

One of the most commonly used appliances in orthodontics is the expander. Its design has changed very little over time, and its use is the preferred method for creating a bigger or wider upper jaw.

In this article, we will cover who would benefit from an expander, the different types of expanders, how an expander works, and what your child will experience if an expander is in their mouth.

Who Would Benefit From An Expander?

In general, any child with an upper jaw that is too narrow would benefit from an expander.

Let’s look at some photos of what that may look like.

A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth are on the inside of the lower teeth instead of on the outside. All upper teeth should be slightly wider than the lower teeth (think of a lid on a jar).

When there is a crossbite it can result in asymmetric growth of the lower jaw, chipping and cracking of teeth, and tooth and jaw pain.

This is what a normal bite looks like (when the top is wider than the bottom):

Another reason for an expander is to create a wider arch so that we can fit all of the teeth (and keep all of them). Overcrowded teeth, crooked teeth, and severely crowded teeth are also reasons that an orthodontist will recommend a palatal expander.

An expander is one expansion technique that can be used to achieve the desired expansion.

Alternatives would include braces and clear aligners. These tools, however, are more for dental expansion than skeletal expansion.

At What Age Does A Child Get An Expander?

When expansion of the upper jaw is required, biology is important.

The maxilla (upper jaw) is made up of several bones that do not fuse until puberty is complete.

In order for expansion to be successful, the expander has to be in place before this fusion occurs.

The Biology Of Palatal Expansion

You can think of an upper jaw as having two halves that are connected by soft tissue (collagen and elastin). We call that connection the midpalatal suture. The mid palatal suture is what stretches wider as the palatal expander is activated.

As these 2 bones pull apart, the body begins to grow new bone on the roof of the mouth. The upper arch is made permanently wider as bone regenerates. Another word for palatal expansion is skeletal expansion because it is the bone that widens.

Amazingly, as the palate is widened at the midpalatal sutures, children only feel pressure, not pain. This dental device (although made of metal), exerts forces in the mouth that are well tolerated.

The Right Age For Palate Expanders

As young as 6 or 7 and all the way up to 12 is usually the best time to do a palate expander.

Puberty hits at different times for different kids so early developers should be expanded younger than those children that are later into puberty.

Does The Child Experience Pain?

Most children report only minor discomfort with a banded or bonded type expander. Pain reliever can be taken if needed but would rarely be required past day 1.

Most kids are mildly annoyed by the appliance for the first few days and find that their tongues are busy. Once the appliance is fully inserted you will find that in a few weeks they no longer notice that it is there.

What Are The Types Of Expanders?

An expander can be called many things.

Expander
Palatal expander
Rapid palatal expander
Palate expander
Haas expander
RPE
Hyrax expander
Quad Helix expander

Quad Helix:

These orthodontic appliances all have an expansion screw (Quad Helix is the exception). This tiny screw is turned by putting a key into a hole. The turns widen the palate to make more space and width. After each turn a new hole (more accurately, the next hole) is visible to be turned next time.

How Is The Expander Attached?

Expanders can either be banded or bonded to the teeth. This means that a metal ring (see image below) is glued on to the teeth (banded) or the entire appliance is glued to the surface of the teeth (bonded).

Banded Expander:

Bonded Expander:

The metal part in the centre (expander key) sits near the roof of the mouth but not touching it.

We usually try to band or bond on to a few adult teeth as they are a better anchor for the palatal expander.

Why Is An Expander Sometimes Called A Rapid Palatal Expander?

We ask our patients to turn their palatal expanders once per day if they are not yet in puberty.

We slow that down to 2-3 times per week if we think puberty has begun.

Turning a palatal expander once per day is considered rapid in the orthodontic world. Each turn of the palate expander is 0.25 mm. Meaning, in 4 days, 1.0mm of space has been created in the mouth.

The molars are easily able to handle this force during expansion, as is the roof of the mouth, the gums, the teeth, the nose, the tongue, and every other part of the mouth.

We slow down the expansion when puberty has begun as there are often small spicules of bone that have started to grow across the suture on the roof of the mouth. The dental expander device is capable of breaking those small spicules but we don’t want the pressure to cause too much discomfort as we widen the maxilla. We do fewer turns so that the pressure can be controlled better during treatment.

Bone Fills The Palatal Suture?

Yes! After you stop turning the palatal expander because you have enough room for the crowded teeth or enough width for the bite, the body will grow bone to re-establish the small space between the two halves of the maxilla.

The desired width will now become permanent over a period of weeks or months. Your dentist or orthodontist will keep the palatal expander in place until this new bony growth is stable.

One of the reasons palatal expansion is so widely used is that it is predictable and stable.

Will A Gap Form Between Their

Front Teeth?

Yes! As the palatal expander pushes the jaw wider, the palate separates at the middle. This means that front teeth often end up with a gap.

The good news is that that gap generally closes on its own after the turns with the key are completed on the palate expander.

Is There Anything I Can Do To Make The Palatal Expander Feel Better?

Soft and cold foods always feel good when the mouth is sore. Sugarless gum also works great for some kids.

Palatal expanders are usually only uncomfortable for the first couple days so reassurance that it will get better also goes a long way.

If your child is really struggling, ask your orthodontist if you can turn the palate expander every other day until it starts to feel better.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics For Your Child’s Palate Expander?

We have been doing palate expanders for over 20 years and know what it takes to make the experience as easy and positive as possible.

We widen the maxilla to make room where needed and will keep your dentist in the loop the entire journey.

We have tools like the Dental Pain Eraser that will minimize discomfort as we widen the palate.

For those teens and adults that are post-puberty, we work with an oral surgeon and use palatal expanders to fix long-standing problems.

We’d love to meet you and your child for a new patient exam (free for those under 20) where we will explain what is needed, when the best timing is, costs, alternatives, pros and cons, etc.

We pride ourselves on comprehensive education and an exceptional patient experience. See you soon!

Whether you live in Shawnessy in Calgary AB or in any of our gorgeous quadrants (SE, SW, NE, NW), finding a high-quality family braces orthodontist for your entire family is a great idea!

When we say family braces orthodontist, we mean an orthodontist who can take care of the entire family!

After all, orthodontic treatment (braces or Invisalign) benefits 80%+ of children and teens and can benefit adults all the way up to 80+. So, anyone in your family could need braces and an orthodontist is the one who should be doing it.

Taking care of your smile and bite is essential! That means the person in charge of this tooth and bone movement is also important.

It is a great idea to take your time to find the BEST family braces orthodontist for your entire family. Quality of care, practice environment and whether or not you like the orthodontist are important.

This article will help you understand what questions you should ask at a consultation with an orthodontist. This will ensure the best care and best fit for your family.

What Is An Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist in the movement of teeth and jaw bones.

All orthodontists are dentists too, meaning they have more education than general dentists and spend their days moving teeth and jaws – and that’s it!

A specialist is recommended for tooth movement because there are risks involved in the process and you want someone well-versed in these risks and how to manage them.

The extra 2-3 years of training that an orthodontic specialist has to have provides them with a solid background to mitigate risk and fix any problems that arise. A general dentist may not have this knowledge.

You want your family braces managed by someone with the most knowledge and experience. That person is a family braces orthodontist – a dental specialist, much like a dermatologist is a medical specialist.

Why Is It Important To Know All Your Options?

Calgary orthodontists are numerous, and all have different ways of accomplishing the same goals.

We recommend you book a free consultation with several and see which clinic feels best to you.

Not only will there be money differences between the offices, but there will likely be differences in appliances used, number of appointments needed, how you can pay for treatment, whether Invisalign is an option or not, how you are treated, credit checks, hidden fees, and much more.

If you are looking for a whole family braces orthodontist, you want someone who feels good. You want to know that they care about you and the outcomes you will get with treatment. You want to know they have time to talk to you and answer your questions.

Your smile and the smile of your child are precious! Take the time to find someone you trust.

With more than 50 orthodontists in the city, there is likely someone you will love close by! We’ve all heard the family braces commercials on the radio…so maybe you’ve heard of them. Keep in mind that the best fit for your family may be a practice that doesn’t do a lot of that type of marketing.

Most of us, Impact Orthodontics included, have grown by word-of-mouth. Meaning, the people who come and see us, tell other people about us. They become a part of our family and then invite others to do the same.

How Does The Office Feel?

Whether you are looking for family braces in Shawnessy, SE Calgary, NW Calgary, or NE Calgary, note how the orthodontic office makes you feel.

Not every office environment or culture will feel good to you…and the one you pick should. Your relationship with your orthodontist is a long one. You need to like and trust them if you want your braces journey to be good.

The feel of the practice is all about communication and energy. How do they speak to you? Did you feel special, or just like a number? Was there time for your questions, or were you rushed? Were you pressured to do something immediately, or was time given to process?

At Impact Orthodontics in Calgary AB, we pride ourselves on exceptional culture and patient experience. We are in SW Calgary (Britannia) and SE Calgary (Midnapore). Come on in for your free consultation (under 20), no referrals are needed.

Dr. Jen and Dr. Dena can’t wait to meet you! Book online or call or text 403-256-7797.

Are You Offered Treatment Options?

No matter your location in Calgary ab, you should know there is always more than 1 way to fix any type of tooth or bite problem.

Braces are an option that most people will be offered. Invisalign, or other clear aligner systems, are the next most common.

Be wary if you are told that you are not a candidate for Invisalign or other clear aligners like Angel, Spark or Clarity. Everyone is a candidate for this type of treatment if they have the right provider.

Being a candidate has more to do with the orthodontist doing the treatment than with the tool to move the teeth. Some orthodontists would prefer to do everything in aligners, and some orthodontists would prefer to do everything in braces. This is likely because, in their hands, you will get a better result with that appliance with them.

It doesn’t mean that you can’t have the other appliance. You just need to find an orthodontist who is good with using the other type of appliance with teeth or a bite like yours.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics For Your Family Braces?

A Few Things We Are Proud Of:

Located in SW and SE Calgary.
No hidden fees.
We are orthodontists that provide braces to the entire family.
Free consultations for anyone under 20.
No dentist referral is needed.
Braces and Invisalign cost the same, and both are offered in 90% of cases.
The two orthodontists (Dr. Jen & Dr. Dena) are both owners.
We use LightForce braces – 3D printed, custom braces for the most efficient tooth movement.
No interest payment plans.
No large down payment is required.
We help you with your dental insurance and direct bill.
The photos and x rays we take at your new patient exam are free and yours to keep. We will happily provide copies to any other dental professionals you wish to work with.
Braces and clear aligners (Invisalign, Angel) are monitored remotely via weekly photos so that you only have to come into the office when needed. Less school and work missed!

“Family Braces Shawnessy” Google Search

If you found this article because you were searching for family braces in Shawnessy, we hope it provided some valuable information.

We think finding the right orthodontist for your family’s braces is noble.

We also hope that you will consider Impact Orthodontics for your family braces. We are known for exceptional quality of care and customer service and would love to show you what that looks like.

Book a new patient exam here or call or text 403-256-7797. We would love to be your family braces orthodontist.

A beautiful smile looks good on everyone!

If you live in Calgary and are looking for clear braces, Impact Orthodontics is the place for you.

We only move teeth using clear appliances. That means we are the experts in clear braces and clear aligners (Invisalign aligners and Angel aligners).

Whether you are seeking traditional braces or Invisalign clear braces, we are your one-stop shop.

Read below for more details on all of the bites and smiles we can correct with clear braces or clear aligners.

If you know you are ready to find out more, come and visit us at one of our 2 locations in Calgary! You can call 403-256-7797 to book with a member of our team, or book a new patient exam online. No referral is needed from your dentist and new patient exams are free for everyone under 20.

Orthodontic Treatment

Traditionally, orthodontic treatment is done using metal braces, clear braces, invisible braces, Invisalign clear braces, or other systems like these.

The purpose of straightening teeth is to improve your smile and put your teeth in the proper position so that they will be pain free, easier to clean, and last your entire life.

You should visit an orthodontist for a consultation if you want to know what system will work best for you. Every tool that is used to move teeth has advantages and disadvantages. It’s always best to find the solution that will make treatment easiest for your lifestyle.

Metal Braces

Traditional braces are silver braces. They have been around for more than 100 years and every orthodontist learns how to move teeth with this appliance.

Metal braces straighten your teeth using metal wires. The braces are glued onto your teeth and you have to see the orthodontist regularly to have the wires changed.

We have to teach you how to brush and floss because this is more difficult in braces. The number 1 risk of braces is cavities and gum disease due to poor oral hygiene.

There are also food restrictions because food can break your braces and get stuck around them.

Traditional metal braces are still used by more orthodontists today than any other orthodontic appliance.

Clear Braces

Calgary, clear braces are the best solution for people who like the idea of traditional braces but want them to be less visible.

They straighten teeth in the same way and come with the same advantages and disadvantages. They are more subtle as you transform your smile.

Invisalign Clear Braces

When speaking about clear braces, people often mean Invisalign invisible braces (clear aligners). Invisalign treatment is, in fact, a clear way to move teeth into a new position.

Invisalign braces are removable, unlike traditional braces, meaning you take them out of your mouth for brushing and flossing and to eat.

They are to be worn for 22 hours a day and are created in a series. Each individual aligner is slightly different than the previous one. They move your teeth gradually and gently for your entire treatment.

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign aligners are custom made to straighten your teeth. We take a 3D picture of your teeth and then use the software to design a program to give you straighter teeth.

Everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign invisible braces if they want to be able to eat their normal diet. There are no food restrictions because there is no where to get food stuck and nothing to break. Your favorite foods are all ok because you simply remove your Invisalign clear aligners every time you want to eat.

Oral hygiene is also easier in Invisalign treatment. Invisalign trays are removed to brush and floss, so there are no changes to your current routine with this treatment option.

Invisalign Process

Invisalign clear aligners are fabricated from a 3D scan we take of your teeth. Crooked teeth are turned into straight teeth with the magic of technology.

A set of aligners is then made for you based on the plan that the doctor designs for the movement of your teeth. You will wear each aligner for one to two weeks. You will likely have multiple sets of Invisalign trays.

Your Invisalign treatment is custom made and custom designed to get you stunning results.

Everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign braces. Invisalign is simply a tool that helps your orthodontist move your teeth.

All types of bites can be corrected with Invisalign clear aligners – you just need an orthodontist that has experience correcting that type of bite with them.

Invisalign Cleaning System

Keeping your Invisible braces clean means brushing them with your toothbrush and toothpaste every time you brush your teeth. You can also soak them in a denture or retainer cleaner and warm water or a mixture of 50% water and 50% vinegar.

Calgary Clear Braces Cost

All of our dental services are priced according to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

Clear braces do not cost more than any other appliance. The cost is based on the time it will take and the complexity of the treatment. If you want your teeth straightened, you can pick the appliance. Regular braces, Invisalign, and ceramic braces will all result in a beautiful smile and good bite.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics For Your Clear Braces Calgary?

We will let our consultation speak for itself. You really have to come in and meet us to see the difference.

We pride ourselves on comprehensive tooth education, transparency, fun and exceptional quality care.

Dr. Jen and Dr. Dena are liked by parents and kids alike and their Google reviews will tell you a lot about other’s experience.

If you live in Calgary (we have 2 convenient locations), we would love to meet you.

We always welcome new patients and no referral is needed from your dentist to book a new patient exam at our office.

Your dentist tells you that your teenager needs to see an orthodontist.

Inevitably, you are faced with a decision.

Braces vs Invisalign.

Most orthodontists will offer you both modalities for tooth movements.

Braces and Invisalign are simply 2 tools that can be used to move teeth and jaws into the

correct position.

We tell our patients that it is far more important that the teenager can do what is needed for their appliance of choice – not the appliance itself.

Biggest Differences Between Braces and Invisalign

Braces (metal braces, traditional braces, self ligating braces, clear braces)

Glued on to the teeth
Extra time and tools required for brushing and flossing
Foods that must be avoided (popcorn, chewy, sticky, crunchy)
More appointments at the orthodontist’s office
Emergency appointments (broken braces, pokey wires)
Visible on the teeth
Lips and cheeks will be sore the first few weeks

Invisalign (clear aligners, Angel, Spark, Clarity)

Removable – they can be taken in and out for eating and brushing and must be worn 22 hours a day
Brushing and flossing is the same as without Invisalign
No foods that need to be avoided
Fewer in-office visits because remote monitoring allows weekly monitoring without missing school and work for appointments
No emergency visits
Virtually invisible on the teeth
Minimal discomfort – most children and teens report 2-5 days of initial adjustment

Do Braces and Invisalign Aligners Do The Same Things?

For the most part, yes. The average treatment time in both treatment options works out to be the same. We use LightForce braces as well as clear aligners (Invisalign, Angel) and find that most bite corrections and teeth straightening happens in the same amount of time.

The results of treatment with custom made aligners (Invisalign, Angel) or braces (traditional braces, lingual braces, ceramic braces, LightForce braces) are also the same. These different appliances are simply different tools to get to the same end result.

Whether someone is in Invisalign treatment or metal braces for treatment, the goals are always the same. Having a treatment option (braces or Invisalign) is just that – an option for how to get to the end goal. Both Invisalign and metal brackets (braces) move teeth and bites into the correct position.

Braces vs Invisalign – Dental Insurance

Another common question in our office is if dental insurance treats Invisalign aligners and traditional braces the same way. Parents are often concerned that their dental insurance plan will not cover clear aligners (Invisalign, Angel). The cost of Invisalign and braces is an investment and this is important information for you to know.

We are fortunate that the insurance companies in Canada do not get to decide what is used to straighten teeth. An experienced orthodontist is most concerned with your child’s oral health and will recommend a treatment modality that will work best for them.

You can choose Invisalign or braces for you or your child and, if you have orthodontic benefits, it will be covered. The treatment option is yours to make.

Invisalign Aligners and Other Clear Aligner Brands

There are many invisible aligners used by your orthodontist these days. Similar to other branded items, Invisalign aligners are just one of the brands of clear aligners in the marketplace.

If you or your child are looking for something with an invisible appearance, fewer office visits, less discomfort, and minimal changes to their daily routine, clear aligners might be the right choice.

What Brands of Clear Aligners Are Out There?

Invisalign
Angel
Clarity
Spark
Ulab
SureSmile

The above list is not exhaustive, but these are some of the brands you will most likely see presented at your orthodontist’s office. Invisalign aligners are simply a common brand name.

Your orthodontist will use the clear aligners that they think are best. This decision is most often based on their experience. Your orthodontist will never recommend a type of treatment that they don’t think they can get good results with.

What If My Dentist or Orthodontist Says I Can’t Have Invisalign?

There are some dentists and orthodontists that do not feel comfortable doing certain types of tooth movements in Invisalign (clear aligners). This is because, in their hands, they feel more comfortable using metal brackets (braces treatment).

If you are set on using Invisalign (or any other clear aligners) for your child or yourself, you simply need to find an orthodontist who can move severely misaligned teeth and crooked teeth and do all types of bite corrections with clear aligner therapy (Invisalign, Angel, etc.).

There is no such thing as not being able to have Invisalign aligners. All types of teeth and bites can be corrected with them. You need the right orthodontist to do the treatment, one that is confident in their ability to do simple and complex cases and correct all orthodontic problems.

Braces vs Invisalign – Oral Health (hygiene) Routines

Braces Care

With traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and custom 3D-printed braces (LightForce), taking care of your teeth is critical.

One of the biggest risks of metal braces or ceramic braces is cavities and gum disease. This is because the brackets bonded on your teeth and the wires that move your teeth collect food and bacteria and they are difficult to clean thoroughly.

We ask all of our patients to brush at least 3 times per day if they have metal and ceramic braces. Morning, after school or work, and evening brushing is the minimum (we are ok with more if required). Each toothbrushing session should take 4-5 minutes.

You will require special instructions on how to keep your teeth clean with metal braces or clear braces on them.

Flossing is critical to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth. This must be done once per day and takes 15-20 minutes to perform.

A fluoride mouth rinse is also a good idea and Crest Pro-Health is a brand we love.

Clear Aligner Care

Whether your teeth are being moved with Invisalign or another clear aligner (Angel, Clarity, etc.), your oral hygiene routine will remain largely the same as it is now.

We ask that you brush your teeth twice per day (morning and evening). This toothbrushing session should take about 2 minutes each time. It’s never a bad idea to brush after school if sticky foods are consumed during the day.

You will also need to brush your Invisalign aligners (or any other brand) every time that you brush your teeth. Many patients will use the leftover toothpaste on their brush after brushing their teeth to brush the inside and the outside of their Invisalign trays.

Flossing should be done once per day and generally takes about 2 minutes to complete.

Patient compliance with Invisalign and braces oral hygiene is very important. We want a straighter smile that is beautiful AND healthy at the end of orthodontic treatment.

As a parent, in the Invisalign vs braces debate around oral hygiene, Invisalign wins every time. If your child does not have an excellent and routine home care routine, metal braces will be a bad choice.

Manual vs Electric Toothbrush

We are asked almost daily about the type of toothbrush that should be used to clean conventional braces or clear aligners.

A great job can be done with both a manual toothbrush and an electric one. Whichever one your child is most likely to use and use correctly is going to be your best bet.

Braces or Invisalign Aligners for Fixing Bites?

Straightening teeth is one thing. Moving the jaw bones to correct bites is quite another.

Let’s compare Invisalign and traditional braces for bite correction. An Invisalign vs braces head-to-head.

Braces Treatment

The way that we correct bites depends on what type of bite correction is needed. Most often, we use rubber bands (elastics) that connect top teeth to bottom teeth to change the way teeth bite together.

There are little hooks built into your metal or ceramic braces that allow rubber bands (elastics) to be connected. These are worn full-time (22 hours a day) or part-time (12 hours a day) depending on what we are trying to accomplish.

Invisalign Treatment

Bites are also corrected with Invisalign most often using elastics (rubber bands) that connect the top jaw to the bottom jaw. Unlike braces, there are no hooks on braces to connect to, slits are cut into the plastic or buttons are glued onto the teeth to attach the elastics. Even with elastics in place, Invisalign offers a discreet appearance.

The most common type of bite we correct is a Class 2 bite. This type of bite has too much overjet (the top teeth stick out too far in front of the bottom teeth). Many clear aligners have special features that can be built in to make correcting overbite easier.

Invisalign treatment allows for the use of elastics earlier in the timeline so one could argue that bite correction happens faster.

Average Treatment Time

With an experienced doctor, comprehensive orthodontic care usually takes 12-30 months.

There are factors that can make it take longer, such as impacted teeth, the need for jaw surgery, and anything else that creates complex cases.

If aligning teeth is the main goal (and there is little to no bite correction required), treatment time will be closer to 12 months.

If treatment is more complex and bite correction is needed, Invisalign treatment and braces will take at least 18 months.

Invisalign Cost and Braces Cost

Many patients are concerned with the cost of Invisalign aligners or braces. And whether you have dental insurance or health savings accounts or neither, the cost of getting braces and the cost of Invisalign is important to know.

We can only speak to our practice on the specifics, but we do know that, in general, the orthodontists in Calgary all follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Many dental insurance plans can tell you exactly what that range in fees is.

Orthodontic treatment is different than general dentistry because fees are listed as a range. This is because there are many different factors that come into play when determining cost.

Some things that may be considered include: the number of orthodontist visits, how long the teeth straightening will take, how difficult the specific movements are to complete (more complex cases take longer), and the age of the patient.

The Alberta Dental Fee Guide lists orthodontic therapy as costing between $4,000 and $20,000. The best way to find out how much it will cost for you or your child is to visit an orthodontist. New patient consultations are free for anyone under the age of 20 and adults consultation fee is applied towards treatment should you proceed.

Invisalign vs Braces – Invisalign Teen

When your orthodontist discusses treatment with you, they may speak about Invisalign teen.

This is a product that was created by Invisalign with teenagers in mind.

The features allow for your orthodontist to plan for things in treatment like the eruption of adult teeth and to track if your teen is wearing their aligners for 22 hours a day.

Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, make sure you talk to your orthodontist about strategies for compliance as this is important for getting a beautiful and functional end result.

Lingual Braces vs Invisalign

Some orthodontic offices offer lingual braces as an alternative to clear aligners. They are the most invisible that braces can get.

All of the things that apply to traditional braces, apply to braces on the tongue side of the teeth (lingual). The biggest disadvantage is that these types of braces effect speech.

Yes, Invisalign treatments also effect speech, but in our experience, they do so for a much shorter period of time and aligners do not make the tongue sore.

Conclusions | Invisalign vs Braces

Invisalign and braces are two common ways to straighten teeth and fix bites and jaw position.

We would argue that one is not better than the other.

Whether braces or Invisalign is better for your child is up to you and your child. We think it is important to consider a few key items:

Braces treatment requires more orthodontist visits (regular and emergency).
Braces require changes to oral hygiene routines and diligence with brushing and flossing throughout treatment.
Braces mean food restrictions – no popcorn and being careful with crunchy, sticky and chewy foods.
Invisalign and other clear aligners need to be worn for 22 hours of the day. They are only removed for brushing and eating.
Invisalign can be lost or misplaced, if not careful.
Invisalign does not require changes to oral hygiene routines (brushing and flossing).
Invisalign does not have any food restrictions.
Invisalign is nearly invisible and very comfortable on the lips and cheeks.

Why Choose Impact Orthodontics?

Dr. Jen and Dr. Dena are dedicated to providing exceptional care in a fun, caring environment.

Quality of care is of utmost importance to them. Our patients are our family and our Google reviews and reputation amongst Mom groups in Calgary reflects that.

We would love to meet your family. No referral from a dentist is needed to book a new patient exam.

You can book by calling or texting 403-256-7797 or visiting out website by clicking HERE.