Metal Braces in South Surrey

There's some pressure and mild soreness for a few days after your braces are placed and after each adjustment visit. Most patients describe it as a dull ache rather than sharp pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually handle it fine. The discomfort settles within 3 to 5 days. Our life with braces guide covers what to expect day to day.

Braces cost varies based on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. In BC, orthodontic treatment generally ranges from $5,000 to $8,000 depending on the case. Many private insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment, often up to a lifetime maximum. At Dream Orthodontics, we offer direct billing to your insurer and zero-interest financing. The best way to get an accurate cost is to book a free consultation with Dr. Morra.

BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not cover orthodontic treatment. However, many private dental insurance plans do include orthodontic benefits, typically covering 50% up to a lifetime maximum. Our team will review your coverage at your first visit and handle all the billing directly.

Most patients wear metal braces for 18 to 30 months. The exact timeline depends on the severity of the case, the age of the patient, and how consistently the patient follows care instructions.

Children who start treatment at the right time (typically between ages 9 and 14) often have shorter treatment times because their jaws are still growing. Adults may take a little longer, though the results are just as achievable at any age. About one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult, so if you've been putting it off, you're not alone. Have more questions about timelines and what to expect? Visit our FAQ page.

Metal Braces for Kids

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening between ages 6 and 8. Most kids don't start active treatment right away, but early screening lets us spot potential issues with jaw growth and incoming permanent teeth while there's still time to guide things in the right direction. When it is time for braces, typically between ages 9 and 14, metal braces are often the most effective and budget-friendly option. Learn more about orthodontics for children at Dream Orthodontics.

Metal Braces for Teens

Teens are our most common metal braces patients. Modern brackets are small and streamlined, and the coloured elastic options give teens a way to make the process their own. At Dream Orthodontics, we use NiTi wires that don't require tightening, which means fewer uncomfortable appointments. Treatment is efficient, and we work around Surrey School District schedules, including Pro-D days, to keep appointments convenient for busy families. Find out more about orthodontics for teens and the full range of options available.

Metal Braces for Adults

Adult braces work just as well as they do for younger patients. The biology of tooth movement doesn't really change with age. What changes is the treatment timeline, which may be slightly longer for adults because the jaw is no longer growing. Many of our adult patients in South Surrey, White Rock, Elgin Chantrell, and Rosemary Heights come to us after years of thinking braces weren't an option for them. They are. See our orthodontics for adults page for more.

Metal braces have had a reputation for being awkward and obvious, but because of modern orthodontics, you will benefit from versions that are smaller, less conspicuous, and more comfortable than ever before.

Sleeker brackets and lighter wires improve the appearance and feel of these braces. This means you will have less irritation in your mouth.

Traditional metal braces also come with a fun new twist without any extra cost - you can customize them with pops of color. The elastics that fit around your brackets come in a wide variety of colors that let you showcase your personality whenever you want.

Pick your favorite color combination, the colors of your favorite sports team, even your school colors! We also offer silver, gray, white, black, and tooth-colored elastics for patients seeking a more subtle look.

Braces are great at fixing complex tooth issues. They can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might. This can potentially shorten your treatment time.

Metal braces are a cost-effective option because they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do. The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional metal braces keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year! For a more discreet orthodontic option, consider clear braces from Dream Orthodontics.

Yes. Hard, sticky, and crunchy foods can damage brackets or bend wires. Popcorn, hard candy, ice, gum, and chewy foods like bagels or caramel should be avoided during treatment. Our life with braces page has the full list along with tips for eating and cleaning your teeth comfortably during treatment.

This is what everyone wants to know, but it’s one we don’t have a concrete answer for. Every mouth is different, and every patient responds to treatment in their own way. Treatment time with metal braces will be different every time.

The average time spent in metal braces is around 18 to 22 months but could be shorter or longer, depending on the individual. We have patients in braces for as little as six months. But for complex issues, it can take over three years to complete the process.

With metal braces, you can see signs of improvement in just a short time, and that gives you confidence during the treatment process.

No referral is needed. You can book directly online or call us at 604-542-8552. We also welcome referrals from local dentists through our doctor referral program.

After your braces are removed, you'll be fitted for a retainer. Wearing your retainer as instructed is how you keep your teeth in their new positions. Most patients wear their retainer full-time at first, then at night long-term.