Braces in Burnaby: A Guide to Starting Kids' Treatments
Children's Braces in Burnaby: What Parents Should Know Before Starting Treatment
BURNABY, BC, February 11, 2026 -- Deciding to begin orthodontic treatment for a child is a big step, one that can shape their oral health and confidence for years to come. For parents considering kids' braces in Burnaby, it's essential to understand the treatment benefits, the types of appliances that may be used, and how to choose the right specialist. For more, go to https://www.metrotownortho.com/braces-for-children-in-burnaby-what-parents-should-know-before-starting-treatment/
Why Braces Matter During Childhood
Orthodontic issues like crowding, overbites, crossbites, and misaligned jaws can often be detected in early childhood. Addressing these issues with braces during developmental years is often easier and more effective than waiting until adulthood, since a child's jaw is still growing and more adaptable to change. The earlier the problem is addressed, the better the results—and in some cases, the simpler the treatment.
Children who benefit from braces may experience:
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Shifting jaws or sounds when opening/closing the mouth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded or widely spaced teeth.
If any of these signs are present, an evaluation by a certified orthodontist is recommended as the next step.
Types of Braces and Orthodontic Appliances for Children
The most common solution is fixed braces. These consist of brackets that are bonded to each individual tooth and connected by a thin archwire. Over time, this wire gently guides the teeth into better alignment. The orthodontist regularly makes adjustments to maintain progress. Brackets can be metal, ceramic, or made from less visible synthetic materials, such as Invisalign, which is ideal for individuals who want a more discreet look.
Some children may also need orthodontic headgear, particularly when jaw development needs to be guided in addition to tooth alignment. Headgear is a removable appliance worn around the head and attached to the braces to apply pressure that moves teeth and corrects bone growth. It's typically worn for 12 to 20 hours a day, depending on the treatment plan.
Once the active phase of treatment is complete, children enter the retention phase. Here, retainers come into play. These devices are worn to hold teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone stabilizes. Without retainers, there's a risk that teeth may shift back over time.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?
Not every child will need braces, but many can benefit from an early evaluation, even if it results in a decision to wait. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic check-up by age seven. At this point, an orthodontist can spot developmental issues that a general dentist may miss.
Children with moderate to severe crowding, abnormal bites, or habits like prolonged thumb sucking are typically good candidates. Some kids may start treatment early, while others may be monitored until more permanent teeth have come in.
How to Choose an Orthodontist in Burnaby
When choosing where to begin treatment, look for a certified specialist in orthodontics. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists complete additional years of education specifically in tooth and jaw alignment and focus their entire practice on orthodontic treatment. Experience with pediatric patients is also essential—working with kids requires not just technical expertise but also the ability to foster a positive, encouraging environment.
In Burnaby, the best professionals offer:
- Clear, customized treatment plans;
- Flexible options like ceramic brackets or Invisalign (when appropriate);
- Transparent pricing and timelines;
- Modern technology for imaging and progress tracking.
What to Expect at the First Consultation
A child's first visit to the orthodontist typically involves a complete assessment of teeth, jaw, and facial growth. Digital X-rays, photographs, and 3D imaging may be used to help the specialist develop a personalized treatment plan. Parents will also receive an overview of the timeline, expected outcomes, and cost of care.
It's essential to involve a child in the process as much as possible. Helping them understand the benefits of braces and how they'll feel more confident with a straight smile can reduce anxiety and improve cooperation throughout treatment.
Book An Assessment for Children's Braces in Burnaby
Considering braces in Burnaby? Contact Metropointe Orthodontics offers expert evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and a supportive environment for every orthodontic journey. Start building a healthier, more confident smile today with trusted orthodontic specialists in Burnaby. Book a consultation and take the first step toward lifelong dental wellness.
Reach out at (604) 434-8887 or metropointeorthodontics@gmail.com.
About Metro Pointe Orthodontics
Burnaby, British Columbia Orthodontist, Dr. Lun Wang, Dr. Kevin Lee, and Dr. Yan Liu are dedicated to Orthodontics offering services such as braces, Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments in Burnaby.
For more, go to https://www.metrotownortho.com/ or call 604-434-8887.
Dr. Lun Wang
604-434-8887
Company Website: https://www.metrotownortho.com
# # #
Why Braces Matter During Childhood
Orthodontic issues like crowding, overbites, crossbites, and misaligned jaws can often be detected in early childhood. Addressing these issues with braces during developmental years is often easier and more effective than waiting until adulthood, since a child's jaw is still growing and more adaptable to change. The earlier the problem is addressed, the better the results—and in some cases, the simpler the treatment.
Children who benefit from braces may experience:
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Shifting jaws or sounds when opening/closing the mouth
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded or widely spaced teeth.
If any of these signs are present, an evaluation by a certified orthodontist is recommended as the next step.
Types of Braces and Orthodontic Appliances for Children
The most common solution is fixed braces. These consist of brackets that are bonded to each individual tooth and connected by a thin archwire. Over time, this wire gently guides the teeth into better alignment. The orthodontist regularly makes adjustments to maintain progress. Brackets can be metal, ceramic, or made from less visible synthetic materials, such as Invisalign, which is ideal for individuals who want a more discreet look.
Some children may also need orthodontic headgear, particularly when jaw development needs to be guided in addition to tooth alignment. Headgear is a removable appliance worn around the head and attached to the braces to apply pressure that moves teeth and corrects bone growth. It's typically worn for 12 to 20 hours a day, depending on the treatment plan.
Once the active phase of treatment is complete, children enter the retention phase. Here, retainers come into play. These devices are worn to hold teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone stabilizes. Without retainers, there's a risk that teeth may shift back over time.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?
Not every child will need braces, but many can benefit from an early evaluation, even if it results in a decision to wait. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic check-up by age seven. At this point, an orthodontist can spot developmental issues that a general dentist may miss.
Children with moderate to severe crowding, abnormal bites, or habits like prolonged thumb sucking are typically good candidates. Some kids may start treatment early, while others may be monitored until more permanent teeth have come in.
How to Choose an Orthodontist in Burnaby
When choosing where to begin treatment, look for a certified specialist in orthodontics. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists complete additional years of education specifically in tooth and jaw alignment and focus their entire practice on orthodontic treatment. Experience with pediatric patients is also essential—working with kids requires not just technical expertise but also the ability to foster a positive, encouraging environment.
In Burnaby, the best professionals offer:
- Clear, customized treatment plans;
- Flexible options like ceramic brackets or Invisalign (when appropriate);
- Transparent pricing and timelines;
- Modern technology for imaging and progress tracking.
What to Expect at the First Consultation
A child's first visit to the orthodontist typically involves a complete assessment of teeth, jaw, and facial growth. Digital X-rays, photographs, and 3D imaging may be used to help the specialist develop a personalized treatment plan. Parents will also receive an overview of the timeline, expected outcomes, and cost of care.
It's essential to involve a child in the process as much as possible. Helping them understand the benefits of braces and how they'll feel more confident with a straight smile can reduce anxiety and improve cooperation throughout treatment.
Book An Assessment for Children's Braces in Burnaby
Considering braces in Burnaby? Contact Metropointe Orthodontics offers expert evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and a supportive environment for every orthodontic journey. Start building a healthier, more confident smile today with trusted orthodontic specialists in Burnaby. Book a consultation and take the first step toward lifelong dental wellness.
Reach out at (604) 434-8887 or metropointeorthodontics@gmail.com.
About Metro Pointe Orthodontics
Burnaby, British Columbia Orthodontist, Dr. Lun Wang, Dr. Kevin Lee, and Dr. Yan Liu are dedicated to Orthodontics offering services such as braces, Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments in Burnaby.
For more, go to https://www.metrotownortho.com/ or call 604-434-8887.
Dr. Lun Wang
604-434-8887
Company Website: https://www.metrotownortho.com
# # #
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Burnaby, BC
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