A straighter smile can change the way you speak, chew, and carry yourself, yet most people never take the first step because they are not sure how to get braces or what the process actually involves.
It is more straightforward than you think. The process begins with a single orthodontic consultation, during which your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment are assessed. From there, a personalized treatment plan is created, braces or aligners are fitted, and regular appointments guide your teeth into their final position.
Whether you are considering traditional metal braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, this guide walks you through every step, from finding out whether you qualify to the day your treatment is complete.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?
Braces correct a wide range of orthodontic conditions. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today is an adult, so age alone is never a barrier. You may be a suitable candidate if any of the following apply to you.
- Crowded or overlapping teeth occur when there is insufficient space in the jaw, causing teeth to shift out of alignment and become difficult to clean properly.
- Spacing and gaps are spaces between teeth that affect both bite function and smile appearance.
- Overbite describes a condition where the upper front teeth protrude significantly over the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
- Underbite occurs when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, affecting chewing and jaw alignment.
- Crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align side to side correctly, leading to uneven wear over time.
- Open bite is a condition in which the upper and lower front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, which can affect both speech and chewing.
The most important prerequisite is healthy teeth and gums. Patients with active gum disease or untreated cavities will need those conditions addressed by their dentist before orthodontic treatment begins. For younger patients, Invisalign Teen is available as a treatment designed specifically for adolescents whose teeth are still developing.
What Are the Different Types of Braces?
The right option depends on case complexity, lifestyle, and how discreet you want your treatment to be.
Types of Braces Comparison
| Type |
Visibility |
Removable |
Best For |
Treatment Time |
| Traditional Metal Braces |
Visible |
No |
Complex cases, all ages |
18 – 24 months |
| Ceramic Braces |
Tooth-coloured |
No |
Moderate cases, adults |
18 – 24 months |
| Invisalign (Clear Aligners) |
Nearly invisible |
Yes |
Mild to complex cases, all ages |
6 – 18 months |
Note: Invisalign uses custom-made, removable aligners crafted from medical-grade thermoplastic to gradually shift teeth without brackets or wires.
At Invisalign Toronto, Dr. Jeremy Kurtz is a VIP Diamond+ Provider, placing him in the top 1% of Invisalign providers globally, with over 4,000 completed cases. AcceleDent is also available, a device that uses high-frequency micro-pulses to accelerate bone restructuring and reduce treatment time by up to 50%, used for just 20 minutes a day. Read what our patients say about their results and view before-and-after photos from cases treated at Invisalign Toronto.
How Do You Get Braces? The Step-by-Step Process
From your first consultation to the day your braces come off, here is exactly what to expect at every stage.
Step 1: Orthodontic Consultation
The process begins with a comprehensive examination of your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. At Invisalign Toronto, a free video consultation valued at $125 is available, allowing you to begin from home before your first in-person visit.
Step 2: Digital Impressions and Imaging
Invisalign Toronto uses the iTero Element 5D scanner to create a precise 3D digital model of your teeth in minutes, without traditional plaster moulds. Dental X-rays are also taken to assess root structure, bone density, and jaw alignment.
Step 3: Custom Treatment Plan
A personalised treatment plan outlines the recommended brace type, expected duration, and projected final tooth positions. With Invisalign, the iTero scanner generates a digital simulation of your expected results before treatment begins.
Step 4: Fitting Your Braces or Aligners
For traditional braces, brackets are bonded to tooth surfaces using dental adhesive, and an archwire is threaded through each bracket. For Invisalign, custom aligner trays are delivered, and the first set is fitted at this appointment.
Step 5: Regular Adjustment Appointments
Traditional braces require adjustments every four to six weeks. Invisalign patients change to a new set of aligner trays every one to two weeks.
Step 6: Debanding and Retainers
When teeth reach their final positions, braces are removed, and a retainer is fitted immediately to maintain alignment. Skipping retainer wear is the most common reason teeth shift back after treatment.
How Much Do Braces Cost in Toronto?
The cost varies depending on treatment type, case complexity, and provider expertise.
| Type of Braces |
Estimated Cost (Toronto) |
| Traditional Metal Braces |
$3,000 – $7,000 |
| Ceramic Braces |
$4,000 – $8,000 |
| Invisalign (Full Case) |
From $2,900 at Invisalign Toronto |
Note: Invisalign at Invisalign Toronto starts from $2,900 for a full case covering top and bottom, supervised treatment, and a retainer, plus a free consultation valued at $125.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) provides orthodontic coverage for eligible children under 18 who meet clinical criteria for severe, functionally handicapping malocclusion. Most patients fund treatment through private dental insurance, in-house payment plans, or third-party financing. Invisalign Toronto accepts PayBright and Dentalcard.
Confirm your specific coverage with your insurance provider before beginning treatment. View full financing options.
Conclusion
Getting braces is a clearly defined process, from an initial orthodontic consultation to fitting, adjustments, and a retainer on the final day. The right type of braces depends on the complexity of your case, your lifestyle, and how quickly you want results. Whether you choose traditional braces or Invisalign, starting with a qualified provider makes all the difference. At Invisalign Toronto, that first step is a free consultation.
Book Your Free Orthodontic Consultation in Toronto, ON
At Invisalign Toronto, getting braces starts with a free conversation. Dr. Jeremy Kurtz, DDS, has completed over 4,000 Invisalign cases and holds VIP Diamond+ status, placing him in the top 1% of providers globally.
To book, call (647) 931-2983 for Front Street or (647) 977-0214 for Lawrence Avenue.
FAQs
At what age should you get braces?
The AAO recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to identify developing problems early. Adults now account for 1 in 3 orthodontic patients, and treatment is suitable for anyone with healthy teeth and gums, regardless of age.
How long does it take to get braces?
Traditional braces typically take 18 to 24 months. Invisalign treatment lasts 6 to 18 months, and AcceleDent can accelerate progress by up to 50%.
Does getting braces hurt?
The fitting appointment is not painful. Mild soreness for two to four days after fitting and each adjustment is normal. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods manage this comfortably. Most patients adjust within the first week.
