Complete Guide to Orthodontic Treatment in Canada

Are you considering getting a straighter smile in Canada? You're not alone. Orthodontic treatment is becoming very popular among Canadians, young and old, who wish to enhance their appearance and oral health. You will gain more from this article, whether or not you are considering traditional metal braces, Invisalign, or other options.

This ultimate guide to orthodontic treatment in Canada is everything you need: types of braces and aligners, average cost of braces in Canada, how orthodontics work, what to expect during treatment, and how to compare clear aligners versus braces in Canada.

With ample access to expert orthodontic care in the major cities and small towns, it is undoubtedly one of the best times to invest in your smile. So let's walk the journey together and discover step by step the best way to your perfect smile.

What Exactly Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on identifying, preventing, and treating misalignments in teeth and jaws. It’s more than just straightening teeth—it can also enhance your bite, reduce the risk of tooth decay, and relieve issues with speech or the jaw joint (TMJ).

Common Orthodontic Concerns:

• Overbites and Underbites
• Crowded or Overlapping teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Crossbites and Open bites
• Jaw misalignment

Why Orthodontic Care Is Important

Besides the visual benefits, orthodontics also improves:

• Oral hygiene: Straighter teeth are easier to clean.
• Function: A correct bite supports better chewing and clearer speech.
• Confidence: A straight smile can boost your self-esteem.
• Jaw health: Helps avoid excessive wear and potential TMJ problems.

Orthodontic Options in Canada

From traditional braces to high-tech aligners, Canadians have plenty of options:

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the oldest known treatments for teeth straightening. They are composed of metal brackets that are fixed on the surface of the teeth with the help of wires. They exert a gentle pressure on the teeth that helps them move to a desired position and align teeth perfectly. The usual treatment duration for metal braces ranges between one to three years, depending on the severity of each case. Metal braces are proven effective for mild, moderate, and even severe cases.

• Pros: Durable, effective for complex cases, and generally more affordable.
• Cons: Noticeable and may cause discomfort.
• Cost: $3,000 – $7,000

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are another effective orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening. They work similarly to metal braces. However, vary in appearance as they are composed of tooth-colored brackets to make them less visible for those looking for a discreet option for a smile makeover. The average treatment duration with ceramic braces is the same as metal ones, depending on the case severity.

• Pros: Made from tooth-colored material for a less visible look.
• Cons: More delicate than metal.
• Cost: $4,000 – $8,000

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are different from metal and ceramic ones. They are placed on the back of the teeth arch, which makes them barely visible from the front. It surely gives an edge for anyone wanting an invisible smile makeover. However, lingual braces require more adjustments and care. They often cause discomfort as well as some difficulty in speech.

• Pros: Attached behind the teeth, making them invisible from the front.
• Cons: Requires experienced orthodontists, takes longer to adjust.
• Cost: $8,000 – $10,000

Clear Aligners

Clear braces are known as a modern approach to teeth straightening. They have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional braces. Aligners are composed of clear plastic material that makes them barely visible. Unlike metal braces, aligners are not fixed on the teeth, rather worn on the teeth. They exert a gentle pressure on the teeth to move them to a desired position. Another factor that has made clear aligners popular among the masses is their ability to be removed without the supervision of an expert. The average treatment duration for clear aligners ranges between four to six months, depending on the case severity.

• Pros: Transparent trays that you can remove.
• Cons: Ideal for mild to moderate issues only.
• Cost: $2,000 – $6,000

Self-Ligating Braces Canada

Self-ligating braces are another approach to straightening teeth. They are often confused with metal braces that have thin metal wires and elastic ties to connect brackets and exert pressure. However, self-ligating braces have a clip system built into the bracket itself to hold the archwire.

• Pros: Use clips instead of rubber bands, which can speed up treatment.
• Cons: Require specialist orthodontists, so access can be limited.
• Cost: $6,000 – $8,000

Retainers

When we talk about orthodontic treatment, it is surely not complete without a retainer. Retainers are the orthodontic devices that are used as post-braces care after getting your teeth straightened, either with braces or aligners. There are different types of retainers: Hawley, clear, and fixed. You can opt for the type that best suits your case severity and lifestyle.

• Keeps teeth aligned after treatment.
• Available in fixed or removable types.
• Cost: $150 to $800 per arch

What the Treatment Process Looks Like

Initial Consultation

Photos, X-rays, and digital scans are taken to assess your smile. You’ll also review your treatment options and costs.

Treatment Planning

A personalized plan is created, and finances and insurance details are discussed.

Active Phase

Lasts 6 months to 3 years based on complexity. Expect adjustment visits every 4–8 weeks.

Retention Phase

Braces or aligners come off. Retainers are used to maintain the position of your teeth. These may be removable or fixed.

What It Costs in Canada

Pricing depends on the type of treatment, length of time, location, and severity of the issue.

Insurance

Many Canadian dental plans cover a portion, especially for children. Check:

• Coverage limit per year
• Age restrictions (often for those under 18)
• Percentage covered (typically 50%)

Financing Options

No insurance? No problem. Many clinics offer:

• Monthly payment plans
• In-house financing
• Third-party options

Some aligner brands like ALIGNERCO offer online assessments and affordable start-up costs with home impression kits.

Orthodontic Care with ALIGNERCO

ALIGNERCO makes orthodontic care easier than ever. Most people now prefer a discreet and comfortable smile journey. With our BPA-free clear aligners, your smile makeover can be hassle-free. One of the factors that make us stand out in Canada is our at-home treatment. Yes, you heard it right.

At ALIGNERCO, we offer at-home teeth straightening to ensure an effective and smooth process. From the initial smile assessment to getting your fabricated aligners, everything is delivered to your doorstep. Further, we offer varied treatment plans for you to choose from. Opt for a daytime clear aligner plan for faster treatment. To avoid the daytime hassle, opt for our night-only aligner plans.

Why Opt for ALIGNERCO Clear Aligner Treatment?

At Home Treatment

Get the smile you have always wanted without leaving the comfort of your home.

Virtual Care

Monitor treatment through our mobile app and online check-ins.

Treatment Planning

Get expert-reviewed care, create quicker and precise plans.

Night Aligners Option

Wear clear aligners only at night—perfect for busy adults.

How Does It Work?

• Initial Assessment
• Impressions Taking
• Aligner Fabrication
• Receiving your Aligners

Public Health Coverage

Most provincial plans don’t cover orthodontics as it’s considered elective. But help is available for kids from low-income households through:

• Healthy Smiles Ontario
• Alberta Child Health Benefit
• Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) for Indigenous people

For Kids, Teens, and Adults

Kids (Ages 7–12)

The Canadian Association of Orthodontists suggests a first visit at age 7. Early action can guide jaw development and prevent major issues.

Teens

The most common age group. Growth spurts help shape the smile more effectively.

Adults

Modern, discreet options like clear aligners and ceramic braces make adult treatment more popular than ever.

Braces and Aligners in Canada

Canadian Orthodontic Care

Getting orthodontic care is a commitment to your health, confidence, and happiness. Whether you’re weighing your insurance coverage, comparing different options, or planning your child’s first visit, Canada’s orthodontic professionals and innovative treatments are here to help. With ALIGNERCO, you can get the best orthodontic care with clear aligners in Canada, which is also at-home.