Common
questions

An orthodontist is a dental specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Dr. Lacoursière completed a 4 year Bachelor of Science degree in Anatomy and Cell Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. He then continued his university experience in Saskatoon to complete a 5 year Doctor of Dental Degree (with distinction). To become an Orthodontic Specialist, a dentist must then complete an additional two-to-three year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics recognized and accredited bMediciney the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).

Dr. Lacoursière holds a  3-year Masters degrees (thesis based) from the University of Alberta. Only dentists who have completed this advanced specialty education may be referred to as an orthodontist.

• Canadian Association of Orthodontists
• American Association of Orthodontists

Most malocclusions are inherited, and some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra teeth, congenitally missing teeth and a wide range of differences between jaw growth and position, teeth and face. Acquired problems can be caused by trauma, thumb or finger sucking, airway obstruction by tonsils and adenoids, dental diseases and premature loss of baby or adult teeth. Many of these problems affect not only the alignment of the teeth, but facial development and appearance as well.

It is usually difficult for you to determine whether treatment is necessary because many problems can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Some problems that look intimidating and complex may resolve on their own. Your general dentist is a good reference, but your orthodontist is your best resource. Your initial exam is comprehensive and informative, and Dr. Lacoursière would be more than happy to see your child and make any recommendations necessary.

Although you may find it difficult to determine whether treatment is necessary, the following signs can help in prompting you to seek orthodontic advice:
– no spaces between any baby teeth;
– crowded or overlapping teeth;
– large gaps between the teeth;
– poor alignment of front top teeth with front bottom teeth;
– top front teeth that do not meet with the bottom front teeth;
– top front teeth that cover more than 50% of the bottom teeth.
If you see any misalignment or shifting of the jaw, your child may have a skeletal problem that could require early orthodontic treatment.

At Image Orthodontics, Dr.Lacoursiere has chosen to use the latest technology that maximizes treatment efficiency. The braces used are more comfortable and use technology that significantly reduces irritation.

Phase II treatment usually occurs a number of years later. Dr. Lacoursière will wait for the remaining permanent teeth to erupt, including second molars, before beginning Phase II. This most commonly occurs at the age of 12 or 13. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve an ideal bite with all of the permanent teeth.

Treatment length often varies between 6 to 30 months. Treatment time depends on the development of the dentition, severity of the problem(s), cooperation, and the treatment goals. Non-compliance with oral hygiene, elastics or appliance care usually leads to prolonged treatment time.

Our office’s treatment philosophy is very conservative and is focused on both dental and facial esthetics as well as long term stability. Dr. Lacoursière makes every effort to avoid extractions when possible. However, for severe crowding and severe jaw discrepancy, extraction(s) of specific teeth may be required.

Please ask us about our treatment fees. All of our financial contracts come standard with an interest-free payment plan.