Many parents know that braces can give their children beautiful smiles. However, many may not realize the long-term health benefits orthodontic treatment can bring.
Here is a list of answers to the 7 most commonly asked questions about braces gathered by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
1. Why is orthodontic treatment important?
Besides being able to boost a person’s self-image, straight teeth, and properly aligned jaws can also contribute to good dental health and overall physical health. It can facilitate brushing and flossing so teeth can stay healthy for a lifetime. Also, it can reduce improper wearing of teeth and make chewing and speaking easier.
2. How do parents know if their child needs orthodontic treatment?
The best way is to visit an orthodontist. The AAO recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven. Orthodontists are dental specialists, who receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth.
3. What if my child still has baby teeth at age seven? Should they still see an orthodontist?
Yes. By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. This is a good time for orthodontists to evaluate how the teeth and jaws meet, and to identify current or developing problems.
4. How does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment
Treatment and growth often complement each other. In some cases, the orthodontist can use the child’s growth to guide jaws and teeth into their ideal positions.
5. How often do you visit your orthodontist while in orthodontic treatment in Vancouver?
Typically a child will see the orthodontist every 4-12 weeks throughout treatment.
6. If you currently don’t have an orthodontist, what is the best way to find someone to treat orthodontic problems?
To find an orthodontist near you, ask your family dentist, your pediatrician, or your child’s school nurse. Or you can visit www.braces.org and click on the Find an Orthodontist service.
7. What is the average cost of orthodontic treatment?
Fees will vary, depending on the treatment needed. Most orthodontists offer convenient payment plans and will work with you to find a plan that fits your family budget. In addition, many patients have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits in Surrey. Check with your employer’s human resources department to learn about your coverage.
At Pacificwest Dental Group, our orthodontists are all fully licensed specialists who are Canadian Dental Board certified and are members of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, American Association of Orthodontists, and Fellow of the Royal College of Dental Specialists. We fully support and follow the guidelines set out by the American and Canadian Association of Orthodontists.
We offer convenient office hours and will work with your needs to achieve an ideal smile for you and your family, at a reasonable cost. Payment plans can be set up with no interest for the length of your treatment. Please ask your dentist for a referral, or simply contact us for a free orthodontic consultation at your convenience. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
