As a young adult, having braces is probably not on your list of high-priority items. The thought of getting braces likely hasn’t even crossed your mind. However, more and more adults have been getting braces in Vancouver, and on average 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are adults. While you may think that braces are for teenagers or that you don’t need to look like a brace face right now, do know that the process has become more than just putting metal in your mouth.
For starters, there are various treatment options to suit your budget and needs. If you don’t want traditional metal braces because of aesthetics, you can choose Invisalign, ceramic brackets, or lingual braces. You’ve likely heard of Invisalign before, and there’s a reason for that.
When Invisalign first entered the market, they were revolutionizing the way people experienced braces. The use of removable, customized “invisible” aligners to move your teeth met the needs of people who wanted the process to be subtle. Invisalign continues to be a great option for those who can take on the responsibility of following a schedule and not losing their aligners (they can be expensive to replace)!
Another option is the use of ceramic brackets, which clearish-white and blend in well with your natural teeth colour. You wouldn’t see younger patients with ceramic brackets because they are more delicate, so they are a perfect alternative to metal brackets for young adults. Alternatively, you can choose to have lingual braces, which are metal brackets attached to the inner side of your teeth. This allows you to go through your treatment process without your brackets being visible to anyone!
Even if you opt for the traditional metal braces, you can still accelerate your treatment duration with readily available technology. For example, there’s a device called the Propel Excellerator that stimulates the root of your teeth to encourage faster movement of your teeth. That way, your teeth can become aligned in a shorter amount of time.
There’s also the Propel VPro5, a take-home kit that also encourages more movement of your teeth. Studies have also shown these movements help the bones retain the teeth’s new position better than without these technologies.
Whatever approach you take to your braces treatment, remember you should choose what you are most comfortable with. The team at PacificWest Dental will provide you with all the information you require to support you in making your decision.
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
