Children’s brooches in Vaudreuil-Dorion: what parents should know before consulting
Pediatric orthodontics has changed a lot since your own teenage years. The first assessment is now done from the age of 7 – not to treat immediately, but to observe growth and intervene at the right time.
This page brings together the questions that parents ask us most often at our clinic in Vaudreuil-Dorion, 35 km west of Montreal. This is a guide to help you understand before considering treatment.
At what age should you consult an orthodontist for your child?
The Canadian Orthodontic Association recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation as early as age 7. At this age, the first permanent teeth have appeared and the orthodontist can already spot possible problems with alignment, jaw growth or occlusion. This does not mean that treatment will be necessary at this time: in more than 50% of cases, simple monitoring is recommended, and follow-up is done at regular intervals until the appropriate time.
When to consult before 7 years old? Some signs deserve earlier attention:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Persistent thumb sucking after 5 years
- Jaw that snaps or deviates
- Teeth that are very advanced or very recessed
- Early or abnormally late loss of baby teeth
If any of these signs are present, it is better to consult a doctor immediately: early intervention can sometimes avoid heavier treatments later on.
What are the phases of treatment?
Pediatric orthodontics is usually divided into two distinct phases, which are not always both necessary.
Phase 1 (7 to 10 years) — A short treatment, 6 to 12 months, performed while the child still has some of his or her baby teeth. The goal is to correct a specific problem before it becomes more complex : crossbite, severe overbite, lack of space, oral habits (thumb sucking, lingual thrusting), etc.
Phase 2 (11 to 16 years old) — The classic treatment with braces or Invisalign, performed on all permanent teeth. The goal is to align the teeth and correct the bite as a whole. Typical duration: 18 to 24 months.
A phase 1 is not always necessary. If you are offered early treatment, it is perfectly legitimate to ask: “What would happen if we waited until phase 2?”
Frequently asked questions
What are the advantages of orthodontics?
- Improved smile
- Increased self-esteem
- Decreased risk of wounds to protrusive front teeth
- Guided facial growth and development
- Improved effectiveness of teeth brushing when teeth are aligned
- Improved dental occlusion and comfort
- Improved distribution of forces for mastication
- Better outcome for restorative treatment to replace missing or broken teeth when teeth are aligned and dental occlusion is optimal
How long will my orthodontic treatment take?
The length of a treatment depends on the orthodontic problem of each patient and may be influenced by many factors, such as the severity of the problem, the growth rate of the jaws and the collaboration of the patient. In general, the length of a treatment varies between 12 and 36 months. On average, a person wears braces for about 24-30 months. Excellent oral hygiene and assiduous attendance to regular appointments will contribute to keeping the treatment on track.
How often will I need to visit the orthodontist?
Your appointment schedule will depend on your individual treatment plan. The first appointment to install braces generally takes 1 to 2 hours. Most patients come back for adjustments every 4 to 8 weeks. These appointments can take about 20 to 30 minutes each. Sometimes, there are specific situations that require a more frequent verification.
What will happen if I need to postpone an appointment?
If you must postpone an appointment, please call to inform us as soon as possible. Canceling an appointment may delay the progress of your treatment.
Please call us during business hours at 450 218-1892. We will require a 48hrs (2 business days) notification for any appointment modifications/cancellations. Fees may apply if delays are not respected.
Broken or lost retainer ?
If you break or lose your retainer, call us immediately so that we can schedule an appointment to repair or redo it as the teeth may move in the meantime.
Are you looking for an orthodontist in Vaudreuil-Dorion?
We welcome you with a smile!
Archambault Morton Orthodontic Clinic offers different types of orthodontic treatments to patients of all ages. The orthodontist couple, Amy Archambault and Paul Morton, as parents, attach great importance to the welcome and orthodontic care reserved for the youngest.
The clinic’s team makes every effort to provide toddlers, children, teenagers and adults with an ideal environment and to make their visit pleasant and easy.
Ready to book your first consultation?
FINANCIAL OPTIONS AND INSURANCE
Several payment and coverage options are available to you depending on your treatment. Our team helps you see things clearly.
A FIRST CONSULTATION TO PREPARE!
Before any treatment, the first consultation allows a clear diagnosis to be made and the next steps to be planned. This is the starting point.
QUESTIONS?
Our team is at your disposal to answer all your questions, before, during and after your treatment.
To cancel or change your appointment:
Please contact us directly during business hours at 450 218-1892.
We ask for a 48hrs notice (2 business days) for any modification/cancellation of appointments, otherwise fees may apply.
We strive to provide you with exemplary service before, during and after your orthodontic treatment.
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