Orthodontist in Maple Ridge
- Invisalign Clear Aligners for Teens and Adults
- Digital iTero Scans to Preview Your New Smile
- FREE Consultation for New Patients
- Open Six Days a Week, Including Evenings
Meet Your Maple Ridge
Invisalign Doctor
Many people searching for an orthodontist in Maple Ridge simply want straighter teeth and a team they can trust. At Westgate Dental & Implant Centre, Invisalign treatment is led by Dr. Tarn Dhillon, our owner and lead dentist. You’ll see the same familiar faces from your first scan to your final retainer.
Dr. Tarn Dhillon, B.Sc., D.M.D.
- Owner and Lead Dentist, Westgate Dental & Implant Centre
- Bachelor of Science (Biology) and Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of British Columbia
- Registered with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) as a general dentist
- Member, Canadian Dental Association
- Invisalign provider
Dr. Dhillon has practised dentistry across British Columbia and is deeply rooted in the Maple Ridge community. He uses iTero digital scanning to plan each Invisalign case and walks you through what treatment can realistically achieve before you commit.
Dr. Dhillon is a general dentist who provides Invisalign treatment. If your case needs a certified orthodontic specialist, such as for severe jaw or skeletal concerns, he’ll let you know and explain your options.
Maple Ridge Orthodontics
for Children, Teens, and Adults
Serving Maple Ridge and Surrounding Areas
Misaligned teeth and jaws are common problems for both children and adults. These misalignments can lead to functional and aesthetic issues, including difficulty cleaning teeth, bite problems, increased risk of periodontal disease, and reduced self-confidence.
To identify problems and address issues right away, Westgate Dental & Implant Centre provides personalized care to help you maintain your beautiful smile. Our dental team can help improve the overall appearance and alignment of your teeth.
Orthodontic treatment uses gentle, controlled forces to move teeth into their proper positions, which can improve oral health and overall well-being. At our clinic, we provide orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners, planned digitally for each patient.
What Is
Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of modern dentistry that helps you achieve optimal dental alignment. It involves diagnosing dental problems, preventing further issues, and correcting crooked teeth and uneven bites. Orthodontics is also a recognized dental specialty, taught through orthodontic residency programs at dental schools.
Common orthodontic treatments include clear aligners, braces, and retainers. At Westgate Dental & Implant Centre, we provide Invisalign in Maple Ridge for teens and adults, along with retainers to protect your results.
Orthodontist in Maple Ridge or Invisalign Dentist:
Which Do You Need?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on orthodontic care and treatment. Not all dentists are orthodontists. These specialists complete additional training in an orthodontic residency program after dental school, building the skills needed for managing complex tooth and jaw misalignments.
A certified specialist understands craniofacial growth and development and uses diagnostic tools like X-rays, cephalometric radiographs, panoramic radiographs, and dental models to evaluate jaw relationships, tooth eruption patterns, and the underlying skeletal structures.
That said, many teeth-straightening cases don’t need a specialist. General dentists can complete additional training to provide Invisalign, and they already know your dental history. Here’s how to tell which option fits your needs.
An Invisalign Dentist May Be a Good Fit If You Have:
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Teeth that have moved after previous orthodontic treatment
- An overbite, underbite, or crossbite that can be treated with aligners
- A preference for keeping your care at your regular dental clinic
A Certified Orthodontist May Be a Better Fit If You Have:
- Severe jaw or skeletal misalignment
- A case that may need jaw surgery or braces
- Complex bite problems in a growing child
At your consultation, we’ll tell you which option suits your case.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Comprehensive Treatment Planning
Good treatment starts with selecting the right orthodontic appliance to achieve the desired tooth movements.
Our dentists use iTero digital scans to map your tooth movements before treatment begins and show you whether clear aligners like Invisalign are a good fit for your case.
Good Oral Health Outcomes
- Aligned teeth are easier to clean, which can lower your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- A well-aligned bite makes chewing easier and helps break down food properly.
- A balanced bite spreads chewing forces more evenly across your teeth.
- May reduce the risk of uneven tooth wear and other problems caused by a misaligned bite.
Early Diagnosis and Intervention
Our Maple Ridge dentist can identify potential malocclusions (bite problems) at the earliest stages, even in young children. This early detection allows for:
Preventative Measures: If your child loses a baby tooth early, a space maintainer can hold room for the permanent tooth. If a developing bite problem needs early treatment, we’ll explain your options and refer you to a certified orthodontist when needed.
Reduced Treatment Complexity: Early intervention may simplify future orthodontic treatments by creating a more favourable foundation for tooth movement.
When to Book an Orthodontic Assessment
Orthodontic problems are often easier to treat when they’re found early. A dental assessment helps identify, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities before they become more complex. Using advanced treatments, technology and techniques, our team helps people achieve healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smiles. For complex dental and jaw problems, a certified orthodontist, who completes extensive training beyond dental school, may be the right next step.
Early Childhood (Ages 7-8)
We recommend an initial evaluation by age 7. During this developmental stage, the permanent incisors and first molars erupt. This allows for a preliminary assessment of lower and upper jaw growth, dental eruption patterns, and potential future malocclusions. We can check your child’s bite during their regular pediatric dentistry visits. An early assessment can pave the way for:
Interceptive Orthodontics
Addresses developing malocclusions in children, simplifying or even avoiding the need for more extensive treatment later. An early check helps show whether your child may benefit from pediatric interceptive orthodontics.
Habit Interception
Identifies and addresses habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that can contribute to malocclusion development.
Signs and Symptoms in Children and Adolescents
- Crowding can occur when teeth lack sufficient space to erupt properly. Conversely, excessive spacing may also be a sign of malocclusion.
- An improper bite (malocclusion) can show up in various ways, including an overbite (upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth), an underbite (lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth), a crossbite (upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth), or an open bite (upper and lower front teeth do not meet when biting together).
Signs You May Benefit From Adult Orthodontics
It’s never too late to straighten your teeth. Adults often book an assessment when they notice:
- Teeth that have moved since they had braces as a teen
- Crowding that makes brushing and flossing harder
- Uneven tooth wear, chipping, or jaw tension
- Gaps or crooked teeth that affect their confidence
Invisalign Clear Aligners at Westgate Dental
Unlike braces, which use brackets and wires, Invisalign uses custom-made, removable, and almost invisible plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into their desired positions.
Invisalign is the orthodontic treatment we provide at Westgate Dental & Implant Centre. If you’re comparing clear aligners in Maple Ridge, our iTero scanner can show you a digital preview of your expected results before you commit to treatment. Learn more about the process on our Invisalign aligners page.
How It Works
Staged Aligner Wear: Our patients wear each custom-designed aligner set for a prescribed period (usually 1-2 weeks) before transitioning to the next set in the sequence.
Force Application: We design each aligner to apply gentle, targeted forces to create controlled tooth movement in the desired direction.
Alveolar Bone Remodelling: The alveolar bone around your teeth goes through a natural process called remodelling, which allows your teeth to move gradually and settle into their new positions.
Clinical Applications
- Mild to Moderate Crowding: When teeth are positioned too close together, aligners create space for proper alignment.
- Spacing Issues: Excessive spaces can be addressed through controlled movement with the aligners.
- Crossbites: Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite down. Aligners can correct many crossbites caused by tooth position.
- Open Bites: The upper and lower front teeth don’t come together when the mouth is closed. Depending on the cause, aligners can correct some open bites.
- Overbites and Underbites: Aligners can also correct many overbites and mild underbites caused by tooth position rather than jaw size.
- Rotated Teeth: For teeth that are twisted or rotated, aligners gradually guide them into their correct positions, enhancing both function and appearance.
Metal Braces vs. Ceramic Braces vs. Invisalign Clear Aligners
Researching metal braces in Maple Ridge? It helps to see how they compare with ceramic braces and clear aligners before you decide. Here’s a side-by-side look at the three most common teeth-straightening options.
Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces | Invisalign Clear Aligners | |
Appearance | Visible metal brackets and wires | Tooth-coloured or clear brackets that blend in with your teeth | Clear, nearly invisible plastic aligners |
How It Works | Brackets bonded to your teeth and connected by wires that are adjusted over time | Same system as metal braces, with ceramic brackets | A series of custom aligners, each moving your teeth a small amount |
Removable | No, fixed for the full treatment | No, fixed for the full treatment | Yes, for eating, brushing, and flossing |
Eating and Drinking | Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods | Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods; some foods and drinks can stain the elastic ties | No food restrictions. Remove aligners to eat or drink anything other than water. |
Brushing and Flossing | More difficult around brackets and wires | More difficult around brackets and wires | Brush and floss as usual |
Comfort | Brackets and wires can irritate cheeks and gums | Similar to metal braces | Smooth plastic with no brackets or wires |
Durability | Very durable | Brackets can chip or crack more easily than metal | Thin plastic, replaced with a new set every 1 to 2 weeks |
Daily Wear | Worn at all times | Worn at all times | 20 to 22 hours a day |
Office Visits | Regular adjustments, often every 4 to 8 weeks | Regular adjustments, often every 4 to 8 weeks | Periodic check-ins to track your progress |
Best Suited For | Most cases, including complex ones | Most cases, for patients who want a less visible option | Mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite concerns |
Available at Westgate Dental | No | No | Yes |
Westgate Dental & Implant Centre provides Invisalign clear aligners only. Braces are shown here for comparison. If you’re asking about ceramic braces in Maple Ridge because you want a discreet option, Invisalign may be worth considering. If braces would suit your case better, we’ll tell you at your consultation.
Orthodontic Treatments
for the Whole Family
Properly aligned teeth can enhance your smile, boost your self-confidence, and contribute to improved oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to care for, which can reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental complications.
Straightening your teeth starts with a reliable dental team in Maple Ridge. Westgate Dental & Implant Centre is a family dental clinic that cares for children, teens, and adults, offering a customized orthodontic treatment plan for each patient.
Whether you’re booking your child’s first orthodontic check or exploring adult orthodontics for yourself, our dental clinic in Maple Ridge is ready to help you achieve your desired results. We’re open six days a week, including Saturdays, with plenty of evening appointments to fit school and work schedules. Book your appointment today.
Orthodontic Treatment
Costs, Insurance & Payment Options
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on your teeth, your goals, and how long treatment takes. We’ll give you a clear estimate at your free consultation before you commit to anything, so there are no surprises.
What Affects the Cost
- How much crowding, spacing, or bite correction you need
- The number of aligners in your treatment plan
- Any care needed before treatment, such as a teeth cleaning or cavity treatment
- Retainers to protect your results after treatment
Insurance and Direct Billing
We work with all major insurance providers, offer direct billing, and accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Many plans include an orthodontic benefit, but coverage varies. We can preauthorize treatment with your insurance provider, so you have a clear idea of your costs before you accept treatment.
Paying for Treatment
Ask our team about payment options when you book your consultation. We’ll walk you through your estimate, your insurance coverage, and what to expect at each stage of treatment.
Ready to Start Orthodontic Treatment in Maple Ridge?
Book a free consultation at Westgate Dental & Implant Centre. We’ll check your teeth, bite, and gum health and, if Invisalign suits your case, show you a digital preview of your results with our iTero scanner. You’ll leave with a clear plan and cost estimate, with no pressure to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical timeline for orthodontic treatment?
The length of treatment depends on the complexity of your case. Treatment can range from 6 months to 2 years. Regular check-ins are scheduled to monitor your progress, confirm your aligners are being worn as planned, and make adjustments as needed.
What happens after Invisalign treatment is completed?
Following the successful completion of your Invisalign treatment, we may recommend a retainer. It helps hold your teeth in their new positions and prevents relapse. Our dentist provides specific instructions on retainer wear and follow-up appointments to help your results last.
Can I use tobacco products while undergoing Invisalign treatment?
Smoking and tobacco use can stain the Invisalign aligners and hinder the progress of orthodontic care. Tobacco use can negatively impact gum health and potentially compromise the overall success of the treatment. We strongly advise avoiding smoking and tobacco products for the best orthodontic care.
How often will I need appointments during treatment?
The frequency of appointments depends on your individual treatment plan, but they typically occur every 4-8 weeks.
What are the other types of orthodontic treatment?
- Braces: Using brackets, bands, and wires to gradually move your teeth into place. Options include traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces. Our clinic does not offer braces, but we’re happy to explain how they compare with Invisalign.
- Retainers: After completing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, you’ll need a retainer to keep your teeth from moving back. Your dentist will guide you on how often to wear it to maintain your results.
- Palate Expanders: For some children, palate expanders help widen the upper jaw to create more space. They are often recommended because a child’s facial bones are easier to adjust at a younger age. Not all children need them, but they can help avoid more invasive procedures in some cases.
Do I need a referral to book an orthodontic consultation?
No. You don’t need a referral to book an Invisalign consultation at Westgate Dental & Implant Centre. You can book online or call our clinic directly. If you’re new to our clinic, visit our new patients page to get started. Your first consultation is free.
What happens at my first orthodontic visit?
We’ll start by talking about your goals, then check your teeth, bite, and gum health. If Invisalign looks like a good fit, we’ll take a digital iTero scan, with no messy impressions, and show you a preview of how your smile could change. X-rays may be taken if needed. Before you leave, you’ll know whether you’re a candidate, what treatment involves, and what it’s likely to cost.
What should I do if my aligner breaks or gets lost?
Call our clinic as soon as possible, and don’t try to repair a cracked aligner yourself. Depending on where you are in treatment, we may ask you to wear your previous aligner or move to your next one until a replacement arrives. If a sharp edge or loose attachment is irritating your cheeks or gums, let us know. We keep room in our schedule for same-day emergency dental appointments.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No. Adult orthodontics is common, and there’s no upper age limit for Invisalign as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. Many adults choose clear aligners because they’re discreet and easy to fit into work and social life. If you have signs of gum disease, we’ll treat that first.
Do you offer evening and Saturday appointments?
Yes. We’re open six days a week, including Saturdays, and we have plenty of evening appointments. This makes it easier to fit aligner check-ins around school, work, and family schedules.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost in Maple Ridge?
Invisalign treatment at our clinic starts at $5,500. Your final cost depends on your case, and we’ll give you a clear estimate at your consultation. We can also preauthorize treatment with your insurance provider, so you know your costs before you accept treatment.
Do you offer orthodontic flexible financing?
You can ask our team about payment options when you book your consultation. We’ll review your estimate and insurance coverage with you, so you can plan your budget with confidence.