Time-Tested Braces for a Confident, Healthy Bite
You may be concerned about crowded teeth, a bite that does not meet comfortably or your child’s developing smile. Braces can straighten teeth and correct many bite problems in children, teenagers and adults.
At PowerSMILE Dental Centre, we help South Surrey and White Rock families understand what needs attention, which options are suitable and what treatment involves. You do not need to arrive knowing whether braces are the answer, and we will help you understand your options.
Dr. Miral Hassan holds a Master’s Degree in Orthodontics from Alexandria University and is licensed as a general dentist in British Columbia.
How braces work
Small brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected by a wire. Together, they apply controlled pressure to move teeth gradually.
At follow-up visits, we check progress and adjust the braces as needed. Elastics or other appliances may form part of your plan.
Treatment often takes around 12 to 24 months, although limited corrections may take less time and more involved treatment may take longer. We will explain your expected timeline after an orthodontic assessment.
What braces can help correct
Sometimes the concern is easy to see: overlapping front teeth or a noticeable gap. Other times, the issue is how the upper and lower teeth fit together.
Braces can help address:
- Crowded, overlapping or rotated teeth.
- Gaps between teeth.
- Deep bites, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively.
- Crossbites, where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
- Underbites and other bite problems, depending on their cause.
- Open bites, where some teeth do not meet when you close your mouth.
Similar-looking smiles can need different treatment plans. We assess the teeth, bite, gums and supporting bone before recommending how to proceed.
Some concerns require additional appliances or a different approach. We will explain what braces can realistically achieve in your case, and how they compare with Invisalign.
Living with braces: settling in
Teeth may feel tender after braces are fitted or adjusted. Brackets and wires can also rub against the cheeks or lips.
We will explain ways to manage this, including orthodontic wax and suitable food choices. Contact us if pain is severe, persists or feels different from what we described.
How to brush and floss with braces
Braces create extra places for food and plaque to collect. We will demonstrate how to brush around brackets and clean between your teeth.
Regular check-ups and cleanings remain important throughout treatment, and so does watching for early signs of gum inflammation.
Eating and playing sports with braces
Hard or sticky foods can damage brackets and wires. We will explain which foods to avoid and which can be cut into smaller pieces.
If you play sports, ask us about a mouthguard suitable for use with braces.
If a bracket loosens or a wire breaks, contact us for advice rather than waiting until your next appointment.
What your assessment includes
We listen to your concerns, examine your teeth, gums and bite, and take any necessary records.
We explain suitable options, timelines and estimated fees before you decide. If an assessment fee applies, we will let you know before your appointment.
Retainers are part of the plan
After braces are removed, teeth can shift. Retainers help maintain their positions.
We will explain how often to wear them and why long-term use matters.
We discuss retainers and any associated costs from the beginning, so you know what to expect after treatment.
Why patients choose braces at PowerSMILE
Control for complex tooth movements
Braces give us controlled movement for rotated teeth, crowding and many bite problems. We will explain whether they are suitable for your treatment needs.
Fixed in place
There are no trays to remove or remember to put back in. Careful cleaning, food precautions and wearing elastics if prescribed still help keep treatment on track.
For children, teenagers and adults
Braces can help at different ages. For growing children, we assess tooth development and the bite to determine whether treatment or monitoring is appropriate.
Clear costs and payment options
We provide a written treatment plan and estimate, explain available payment options and help you understand your insurance benefits. The CDCP currently does not cover braces.
Frequently asked questions
How much do braces cost?+
Our estimated fees for braces are:
- Limited treatment: $4,000–$6,000
- Full upper and lower treatment: $5,000–$7,000
- More complex cases: $7,000–$8,500
Your individual fee depends on the tooth movements and bite correction needed. After your assessment, you will receive a written estimate explaining whether diagnostic records, adjustment visits, retainers and follow-up care are included, along with any potential additional charges.
If payment arrangements are available, we will explain the deposit, payment schedule and total amount payable, so you understand the complete cost before deciding.
Does dental insurance cover braces?+
Some private dental plans include orthodontic benefits. Age restrictions, lifetime limits and other conditions may apply.
We can help you understand the information in your plan, but your insurer should confirm coverage and your expected share before treatment begins.
PowerSMILE welcomes CDCP patients; however, orthodontic services, including braces, are currently not covered under the CDCP.
How long will I need braces?+
Many treatments take around 12 to 24 months, but your timeline depends on the bite problem and the movements needed.
Tooth movement, missed appointments, appliance breakages and following instructions can affect the schedule. We will discuss your expected timeline and review progress throughout treatment.
Do braces hurt?+
Temporary tenderness is common after braces are fitted or adjusted. Brackets or wires may also irritate your mouth.
We will explain what to expect and how to stay comfortable. You do not need to wait for your next appointment if something is causing concern.
What foods should I avoid with braces?+
Very hard, sticky or chewy foods are the ones to watch, including hard candy, caramel, popcorn and ice, since they can damage brackets and wires. Other foods can simply be cut into smaller pieces. We will give you a full guide at your fitting appointment so you can eat with confidence throughout treatment.
Are braces better than Invisalign?+
Neither is better for everyone.
Braces can offer useful control for certain movements and stay attached throughout treatment. Invisalign is removable and less noticeable, but requires consistent wear.
We will compare suitable options based on your bite, treatment goals and daily routine.
When should my child have an orthodontic assessment?+
An initial orthodontic assessment around age seven allows us to check how adult teeth are coming through and how the bite is developing.
An early assessment does not automatically mean early braces. Some concerns benefit from attention during growth; others can be monitored.
If we recommend waiting, we will explain what we are watching and when to reassess.
Can adults have braces?+
Yes. Braces are an option for many adults.
Your assessment considers gum health, supporting bone, existing dental work and the movements needed. We will also discuss how treatment would fit around your work and daily life.
Are there risks with braces?+
Yes. Risks include decay or permanent white marks around brackets when plaque builds up, gum inflammation or recession, changes to tooth roots and teeth shifting afterward.
We will discuss the risks relevant to your case, how we monitor treatment and what you can do to help protect your teeth.
Related services
Understand your options before you decide
Whether you are asking for yourself, your child or your teenager, start with clear answers. We will explain what needs attention, whether braces are suitable and what treatment would involve.