Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth and corrects bite problems using braces, clear aligners (Invisalign), or retainers. Straight teeth are easier to clean and less likely to develop decay, gum disease, and uneven wear. We see patients of all ages: children whose adult teeth are coming in misaligned, teens ready for braces or Invisalign, and adults who finally want the smile they have always wanted. Most treatment plans run 12 to 30 months.
Straight teeth are about health, not just looks.
Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to brush and floss, which raises the risk of cavities and gum disease. A bad bite can stress the jaw joint, cause headaches and neck pain, chip or wear teeth, and make eating and speaking less comfortable. Fixing the bite often pays off for decades in fewer fillings, fewer extractions, and less jaw discomfort.
Types of bite problems we treat
Most patients have one or more of these common malocclusions. The diagrams below show what they look like.
Signs you might benefit from orthodontic treatment
- Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth that catch food
- Your top and bottom teeth do not meet properly when you bite
- Jaw pain, clicking, or frequent headaches related to your bite
- Difficulty chewing or biting through food cleanly
- You feel self-conscious smiling in photos
Treatment options at Madison
Invisalign (clear aligners)
Nearly invisible, removable, and great for mild to moderate cases. Most patients finish in 12 to 18 months. Aligners come out for eating and brushing.
Traditional braces
Stainless-steel brackets bonded to your teeth, connected by a wire. Best for complex cases. Treatment usually runs 18 to 30 months. We adjust the wires every 4 to 8 weeks.
Retainers
After active treatment, a retainer keeps your teeth in their new position. Without one, teeth slowly drift back. Some retainers are removable; others are bonded behind the teeth.
What to expect: treatment timeline
- Consultation and scan. We examine your teeth and bite, take a digital scan and X-rays, and discuss the best option for your case (Invisalign, braces, or a combination). You get a clear written treatment plan with cost up front.
- Start treatment. For Invisalign, you take home your first set of aligners. For braces, we bond the brackets and place the first wire. The first 2 to 5 days feel different and tender; most patients adjust quickly.
- Check-ins every 6 to 8 weeks. We swap your Invisalign trays or adjust your braces and check progress. Most appointments are 20 to 40 minutes.
- Refinements (if needed). Near the end of treatment, we may add a few extra aligners or wire changes to perfect the position. This is normal and built into the plan.
- Retention. Once your teeth are in the right position, we remove braces or finish aligners, and you get a retainer. Wearing it as directed (especially the first year) is what keeps your new smile from drifting back.
Orthodontics for every age
Children (ages 7 to 12)
We recommend a first orthodontic check at age 7. Early treatment can guide jaw growth, create room for permanent teeth, and reduce the need for extractions later. Not every child needs braces this young; many just need monitoring.
Teens (ages 12 to 18)
The classic time for braces or Invisalign. All permanent teeth are usually in, the jaw is still flexible, and treatment results are predictable. Most teen plans run 18 to 24 months.
Adults (any age)
It is never too late. Modern adult orthodontics is faster and more discreet than ever, especially with Invisalign. About one in three of our orthodontic patients is an adult.
Cost, insurance, and CDCP
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on the option you choose (Invisalign or braces), the complexity of your case, and the length of treatment. We give you a full written quote at the consultation, and we offer monthly payment plans to spread the cost over the length of treatment.
Orthodontics is covered (partially or fully) by most extended health plans and by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) if you are eligible. We bill your insurance directly so you only pay your residual. See our insurance and financing page for the full list of insurers we work with, or call us at 604-282-3800 for a quote on your specific situation.
Why choose Madison Dental Studio for orthodontics
Over 20 years of orthodontic experience, Invisalign and traditional braces under one roof, digital scanning (no goopy impressions), monthly payment plans, BCCOHP-registered team, direct insurance billing, and a multilingual team (English, Punjabi, Hindi, Persian, Tagalog, Spanish, Mandarin, Korean).
Orthodontics FAQ
How long will my treatment take?
Most cases run 12 to 30 months. Mild cases finish in under a year. Complex cases with significant crowding or skeletal issues can take 24 to 36 months. We give you a specific estimate at the consultation based on your case.
Are Invisalign or braces better?
Both produce excellent results for most cases. Invisalign is nearly invisible, removable for eating, and great for adults. Braces are better for complex cases involving rotation, vertical movement, or large gaps. We will give you a straight recommendation based on what your teeth and bite actually need.
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
No, but you may feel tender pressure after each adjustment (every 6 to 8 weeks) or new aligner change. Over-the-counter pain relievers handle it for most patients. The pressure usually fades in 2 to 3 days.
Am I too old for braces or Invisalign?
No. Teeth can be moved at any age as long as the gums and bone are healthy. About one in three of our orthodontic patients is an adult.
How often will I need to come in?
Every 6 to 8 weeks for braces (to adjust the wire) or every 8 to 12 weeks for Invisalign (to check progress and hand out new trays). Most appointments are 20 to 40 minutes.
What happens after treatment ends?
You get a retainer to wear so your teeth do not drift back. We typically recommend full-time wear for the first 3 months, then nights only after that. Many patients wear nighttime retainers for years to keep results stable.
Is orthodontic treatment covered by CDCP?
Yes, CDCP covers medically necessary orthodontic care for eligible patients at a coverage level of 40, 60, or 100 percent depending on your adjusted family net income. We are an enrolled CDCP provider. See our CDCP page for full details.
Can my child start orthodontic treatment early?
Yes, in some cases. We recommend a first orthodontic check at age 7. Early treatment (called Phase 1) can guide jaw growth and create room for permanent teeth. Most children do not need Phase 1; we only recommend it when there is a clear benefit.
Ready to start your orthodontic journey?
Book a free consultation and we will examine your teeth, show you treatment options, and give you a clear written cost and timeline.