There are a lot of rumors and myths about braces and you should have all of the correct facts before beginning any orthodontic treatments.
While some might be true, here are 10 myths that simply are not.
Any professional offering orthodontic treatment is an orthodontist
While some cosmetic dentists or other online companies may offer braces or aligners, only a doctor who has completed the additional advanced training required to become a certified orthodontist can call themselves an orthodontic specialist. When it comes to moving your teeth, look for an AAO certified orthodontist that possesses the skills and experience to change the appearance of your smile.
Braces cost more than they should
The cost of braces might seem like a significant investment of not only your time, but your money as well. Braces produce lifelong benefits that not only improve your appearance, but can restore ones confidence. Your orthodontist undergoes years of advanced training and continues education throughout their career, and you’re paying for the education and experience of your orthodontist in the cost of your braces.
Straightening your teeth will take years
Even the most carefully planned orthodontic treatments require close monitoring to ensure that your teeth are responding correctly to the treatment plan. Orthodontics requires careful, controlled movements of the teeth to ensure the are moving into the correct position, and the timeframe you will wear your braces varies from patient to patient. If you have minor changes to your teeth, an orthodontic treatment could take only a few months.
Braces only change your appearance
Did you know braces have many benefits in addition to a straighter smile including:
- Better oral health – When your teeth are crooked, there are nooks and crannies that tooth decaying bacteria can hide in.
- A properly aligned jaw – If you suffer from TMJ, braces will properly align your jaw and correct your jaw pain issues.
- Daily benefits – Some patients with crooked teeth find daily normalities challenging like chewing, speaking or biting. Braces will properly align your mouth so everything is in its correct place.
Metal braces work the best to straighten your teeth
Gone are the days when you only had one type of treatment option if you wanted straighter teeth. Choose the orthodontic treatment that’s right for you and your lifestyle that leads you towards a happier, healthier smile. Todays treatment options include:
- Aligner trays for adults that are removable and convenient.
- Clear braces with ceramic brackets and clear wires that work in the same way as metal braces do, without demanding the same level of attention.
Mail order orthodontic treatment will safely straighten teeth
If you’re not being regularly seen in person by an orthodontist during treatment, the health of your gums, teeth and jaw are not being properly monitored, making mail-order treatments high risk of irreversible damage and could end up costing you even more than an initial orthodontic treatment from a trained orthodontist would have to correct issues.
You can straighten your teeth yourself at home
Orthodontists are warning patients and parents of the dangers in the recent trend of DIY teeth straightening techniques. Attempting to straighten your teeth yourself without any proper training or experience that your orthodontist has will lead to irreparable damage to your teeth. In just a couple of days, self damage to your teeth can end up costing you thousands of dollars and a lot of heartache and pain if your teeth become damaged beyond repair.
Only children and teenagers can straighten their teeth
It may be more common to see kids and teens with braces than adults, but you can achieve a healthy, beautiful smile at any age. Having braces as an adult can be even more beneficial because of the different treatment options that are offered.
Braces are easy to break
Brackets are cemented to your teeth, making them relatively durable and able to withstand your entire treatment until it’s time for your braces to be removed. Taking care of your braces and eating the right foods will help to keep your brackets and wires in great shape so you can stay on track for your treatment timeline.
Treatment results will last for life
Once your braces are off, your teeth will have a natural response to move back to their former state. Shift prevention is as simple as wearing a removable retainer until your bone registers the changes as permanent.
If you’re ready to learn more about how braces can benefit you and your smile, make an appointment with Thomas Orthodontics and let us help you achieve a straighter smile!
