Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see the orthodontist?

No. If you have concerns about your smile or your bite, please call our office and we will schedule a consultation. At that appointment, we can determine your concerns, identify problems with your teeth and smile and plan a treatment for you. However, it is very important that we work together with your family dentist to achieve our goals. We will need to ensure that you have had a recent examination and cleaning and that all necessary dental work is up to date, before any braces are placed or other treatment is started.

Do I need to see my dentist during my orthodontic treatment?

Yes! It is very important that you see your dentist at least every six months while you have braces on so that you can be checked for cavities and to have your teeth cleaned. For some patients, we recommend even more frequent cleanings. Some dentists incorporate orthodontic treatment into their practices, drawing upon information learned in dental school and short courses on orthodontics. Your dentist may offer to treat your orthodontic problem if he or she feels it is within the scope of their his or her abilities. If not, a referral to an orthodontist is indicated. Some of the dentists who refer the greatest numbers of patients to our office do some orthodontic treatment in their office: their knowledge of bite problems helps them identify situations that demand assessment by an orthodontist.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has specialized in orthodontics, that specific area of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. To become an orthodontist, a dentist must return to school to attend a 2-3 year full time residency program of advanced education in orthodontics accredited by the Canadian Dental Association and complete an additional set of examinations that are conducted by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Canada – to receive their “specialist” designation.

What is the oldest that you can be and still have your teeth straightened?

There really is no limit! As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, orthodontics is a possibility. Dr. Suzuki has treated patients from age 7 to 70+.

How long do I have to wear braces?

There are many factors that determine how long you will need to wear your braces. Generally speaking, the more difficult your problem, the longer your treatment will take, but most cases finish in 18 months or so.
You can have a significant impact on how long your treatment takes by avoiding breakage of your braces, following our instructions carefully, and attending all of your appointments.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

It is difficult to give an exact figure given that orthodontic problems range from simple to extremely complex. Overall FULL treatment costs in the Vancouver area can range from $6000 to over $10000 for complex cases. As well, the treatment approach selected by Dr. Suzuki with your input can affect the cost of your treatment. At your consultation appointment, Dr. Suzuki's office will give you an estimate for the actual cost of your treatment and the payment options that are available to you. Please visit the "Our Office" section for more information on payments and appointments.

Will it hurt?

The actual placement of your braces (or other orthodontic devices) does not hurt. However, most people find that there is some initial discomfort during the first week or so with braces and Invisalign®. A great way to minimize this discomfort is to take ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin are two popular examples) about an hour or so before placement of separators, braces, or wire changes.

What can I eat?

In reality, you can eat just about anything as long as you use a little common sense. Just cut up everything into small pieces and you will not have any problems. We will go over do’s and don’ts with you the day you start your orthodontic treatment.