What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthodontic and facial irregularities.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an advanced education program following orthodontic school, to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development. Dr. Low is a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics, practicing exclusively in the field of Orthodontics. Dr Low is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, an honour granted only to those specialists who complete advanced examinations after their degree program.

What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?

• A more attractive smile
• Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
• Better function of the teeth
• Possible increase in self-confidence
• Increased ability to clean the teeth
• Improved force distribution and wear patterns of the teeth
• Better long term health of teeth and gums
• Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions
• Reduce the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
• Aid in optimizing other orthodontic treatment

What are some signs that braces may be needed?

• Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth, or are bucked
• Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
• Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (underbite)
• The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open bite)
• Crowded or overlapped teeth The center of the upper and lower teeth do not line up
• Finger or thumb sucking habits which continue after six or seven years old
• Difficulty chewing
• Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
• The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
• Spaces between the teeth