WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DENTIST AND AN ORTHODONTIST?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has followed a specialized university course lasting two to three years. The orthodontist specializes in the prevention and correction of problems of teeth alignment and seeks to improve appearance and function.
WHO CAN CONSULT AN ORTHODONTIST AND FROM WHAT AGE?
It is not necessary to be referred by a dentist to consult Dr. Gagnon.
Consultations for children can be made from age six or as soon as recommended by your dentist.
Whether for teenagers or adults, there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. More information concerning the various possibilities in function of age is available in the treatments section.
AVERAGE LENGTH OF TREATMENT
Treatments last 18 months on average. The length may vary in function of the technology used and the patient’s situation. We will be able to give you an approximate idea at your first appointment.
AVERAGE FREQUENCY AND LENGTH OF APPOINTMENTS
The frequency depends on the type of treatment, but an appointment is usually required every eight to ten weeks on average.
Appointments last approximately 30 minutes.
APPOINTMENT REMINDERS
To help you remember your appointments, we can send a text message or call you by phone, whichever you prefer.
If your child comes to the clinic alone for appointments, we can also send them a text message directly, as a reminder.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?
It is obvious that treatment will improve your smile and self-esteem. But it is also a question of your buccal health. Treatment reduces the risk of cavities, abnormal wear and tear to the teeth and gum disease.
ARE THE TREATMENTS PAINFUL?
Some discomfort at the beginning of the treatment is normal. Analgesics such as ibuprofen may be taken to control pain. It only occurs at the start of treatment, doesn’t last very long and hardly ever occurs again. We will take the necessary precautions to see that your treatment produces as little discomfort as possible.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF AN ULCER DEVELOPS?
This can occur at the beginning of the treatment. Just rinse the mouth with salty water and apply some orthodontic wax to soothe the ulcer until it can heal.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF a wire protrudes oR my braces become loose?
Do not hesitate to contact us for an earlier appointment and we will indicate what measures need to be taken.
WHAT MEASURES SHOULD BE TAKEN TO ENSURE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT?
We will do everything possible to ensure your treatment takes as little time as possible. Here are some tips to help you obtain rapid results:
- Make sure you come to your appointments and miss as few as possible.
- Follow the recommendations regarding food to avoid damaging the braces.
- Wear elastic bands when require
- Maintain good dental hygiene.