Orthodontic Braces in Calgary NE
Braces remain the most versatile way to correct crowding, gaps, and bite problems — and modern brackets are smaller and more comfortable than the ones you remember. We treat children, teens, and adults right here in Calgary NE.
How Braces Straighten Teeth
Braces work by applying steady, gentle pressure to your teeth over time. Small brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by an archwire; as we adjust that wire, it guides the teeth into better positions and the surrounding bone remodels to hold them there.
That mechanical control is why braces handle cases clear aligners struggle with — severe crowding, significant bite correction, rotated teeth, and moving a tooth's root rather than just tipping the crown. Because they are fixed in place, they also work without depending on you remembering to wear anything.
Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which lowers your risk of decay and gum disease, and a properly aligned bite spreads chewing forces evenly instead of wearing down a few teeth or straining your jaw joints.
Types of Braces We Offer
Metal Braces
The most common and most cost-effective option. Modern stainless-steel brackets are considerably smaller than older designs and handle the widest range of cases, including complex bite corrections. Coloured elastic ties are a popular choice with younger patients.
Ceramic Braces
The same mechanics as metal braces, but with tooth-coloured or clear brackets that blend into your smile. A popular choice for adults and older teens who want fixed treatment that is far less noticeable in photos and on video calls.
Self-Ligating Braces
These use a built-in clip instead of elastic ties to hold the archwire. That can mean less friction, fewer elastics to change, and in many cases shorter, less frequent adjustment appointments — useful if you are fitting visits around school or shift work.
Your Braces Journey at The Port Dental
Consultation & Records
We examine your teeth and bite, take X-rays and photos, and talk through what you want to change. You'll leave knowing your options, a realistic timeline, and the cost.
Fitting Your Braces
Bonding day takes roughly one to two hours. We clean and prepare each tooth, bond the brackets in place with a curing light, and thread the first archwire. There are no needles and no drilling.
Regular Adjustments
You'll see us every 6–10 weeks so we can change the wire and track progress. Appointments are short. Expect some tenderness for a day or two after each adjustment — soft food and over-the-counter pain relief handle it.
Removal & Retainers
We remove the brackets, polish off the bonding, and fit your retainer the same day. Retainers are not optional — teeth drift back without them, so wearing yours as directed is what makes the result last.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners
Both straighten teeth well. The honest answer is that they suit different cases and different people — here is how they actually compare.
Leaning the other way? Read about Invisalign clear aligners, or see all orthodontic options.
Living with Braces
Foods to Avoid — Hard and sticky items are what break brackets: ice, hard candy, nuts, popcorn kernels, caramel, and gum. Cut apples and carrots into pieces rather than biting straight in.
Keeping Them Clean — Brush after every meal and floss daily using a floss threader or interdental brush. Plaque left around brackets can leave permanent white marks on the enamel once the braces come off.
Managing Soreness — Teeth feel tender for a day or two after fitting and after each adjustment. Soft foods, cold drinks, and over-the-counter pain relief are usually all that's needed.
Orthodontic Wax — If a bracket or wire rubs, press a little wax over it. We give you wax at your fitting and you can top it up at any pharmacy.
Playing Sports — Keep playing. Wear an orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over brackets — see our mouthguards and night guards.
If Something Breaks — A loose bracket or poking wire is not an emergency, but call us and we'll fit you in. Don't try to cut a wire yourself; cover it with wax until we see you.
Braces Questions Answered
What Our Patients Say
“Dr Sandhu is looking after my ortho treatment and my teeth already started getting straight in one month. I have confidence that by the end of my treatment I will have a fabulous smile.”
“I had a really good experience with the care provided by Dr. Balbir Sandhu. I have been going to him for the last 1.5 years for checkups for my braces, and everytime I go, the staff are professional, kind, and made sure everything was done properly. I felt comfortable and well taken care of the whole time.”
“Very great care for my teeth! Noticed more cleanness of my teeth and gained straighter teeth.”
Ready for a Straighter Smile?
Book a braces consultation at The Port Dental Clinic in Calgary NE. We'll assess your bite, walk you through metal, ceramic, and self-ligating options, and give you a clear cost and timeline.