The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows the orthodontist to spot potential issues early, even if treatment may not be needed until later.

Both braces and clear aligners straighten teeth, but they work differently:

Braces use brackets and wires fixed to the teeth and are adjusted over time.

Clear aligners (like Invisalign®) are removable, nearly invisible trays that gently move teeth.
Aligners are more discreet and easier to clean but must be worn 20–22 hours per day to be effective.

Most patients visit every 4–8 weeks so the orthodontist can check progress and make adjustments. Clear aligner patients may have fewer in-person visits, depending on their treatment plan.

Yes. Orthodontic treatment can help correct certain jaw misalignments and bite issues. In some cases, early intervention or additional appliances may be recommended to guide jaw growth and create a healthier bite.

Yes. To prevent damage to braces, avoid:

Hard foods like nuts, popcorn kernels, and ice.

Sticky foods like gum, caramel, and chewy candy.

Crunchy foods like chips or raw carrots (unless cut into small pieces).
Clear aligners have no food restrictions — simply remove them before eating.

You may notice slight changes in your speech (such as a lisp) for the first few days after getting braces or aligners. This usually improves quickly as your mouth adjusts.