As you begin your orthodontic journey, there’s a chance you may encounter myths and misconceptions about braces. But there is no need to stress, Timock Family Orthodontics has a well-trained team of experts who want you to have the right information to begin your orthodontic treatment with confidence. To help you out, we’re going to clear up ten of the most common myths about braces so you can move forward knowing the facts from the myths.
Myth #1: Braces are only for kids and teens
When we think of braces, we often think of teenagers or older children. This may be because young people’s teeth are not fully developed, which can make it easier for braces to move their teeth in the right direction for better teeth when they get older. But your teeth are capable of being adjusted with braces at any age. With metal and clear braces and Invisalign options, orthodontic treatment is possible and beneficial for everyone of all ages. Whether you require a full or limited orthodontic treatment, our team will ensure that you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
Myth #2: Braces are painful
The initial application of your braces may cause some discomfort and tight feelings, but this quickly goes away as your teeth learn to adjust to the metal appliances. There may also be some irritation and soreness during your routine adjustment appointments. But overall, your braces should not cause any actual lasting pain and the discomfort you may or may not experience does not affect the efficiency of your braces.
Myth #3: Braces are only for cosmetics
While braces do straighten your teeth, there are other more functional benefits to braces. Imperfect teeth can affect your speech, chewing, digestion, sleep, and even your breathing. Tooth crowding can make it difficult to properly floss and clear plaque and debris. A misaligned bite can lead to poor oral health overall. Luckily for most patients, jaw misalignment or malocclusion can be easily remedied with braces.
Myth #4: Braces have to be on for a long time to work
The process of adjusting your teeth does take time, especially if you need more in-depth jaw adjustments. Braces make small, gradual changes that allow your mouth to adjust and move your teeth. If this process is rushed, it can be very painful and could cause damage to your jaw and teeth. Most orthodontic patients tend to spend anywhere from twelve to thirty-six months in treatment and adjustments, and it can vary depending on your oral health and your goals.
Myth #5: Braces will severely limit what you can eat
To get the most effective results from your orthodontic experience, you will likely have to avoid certain food that may damage your braces, or it can make cleaning your braces tricky. Foods that are crunchy like raw apples and carrots, nuts, and popcorn, and sticky foods like candies with caramel and taffy can cause your appliances to break and even cause damage to your teeth, tongue, and gums. But most other foods will not pose a problem in eating or proper oral care, especially when paired with a strong oral hygiene routine.
Myth #6: You can’t play sports or instruments
While you should always protect your teeth and mouth when playing sports or instruments, especially when you have braces, you don’t have to give your favorite activities to protect your smile. One way you can protect your teeth while playing sports is to wear a protective mouthguard just to be safe from the impact that could damage your braces. And as for musical instruments, the added devices in your mouth may require a bit of adjustment while playing, but it shouldn’t keep you from enjoying making music.
Myth #7: Braces straighten your teeth forever
Your orthodontic work will continue even after you get your braces removed. Once your braces are off, you will move on to the next part of your treatment. Your mouth becomes vulnerable as your teeth attempt to shift back into the place they were before you got your braces. Your jaw needs time to grow and support the adjustments that were made. And so, you will need to wear a retainer that keeps pressure on the teeth to keep them from moving. This will be a removable device, but you will need to wear it regularly as instructed to ensure that the adjustments made while wearing braces are not compromised.
Myth #8: Metal braces are the only option for straightening your teeth
Brackets and wires are not everyone’s cup of tea. Advancements in orthodontic technology have provided more options for people seeking to straighten their teeth. While bracket-and-wire braces are the commonly used option, there is also a clear, ceramic option. At our orthodontic offices, we also offer a clear aligner option called Invisalign to be used in place or in combination with your standard braces treatment plan.
Myth #9: Constant Wire Changes
Follow-up visits are a crucial part of the orthodontic process, and our team wants to work with you to help you get where you want. Adjustments will be expected and there may be reasons for the wire to be exchanged at certain points in your treatment plan. But they will not be as frequent as you may expect! Most of the visits will consist of our orthodontists making minor adjustments and visually inspecting the movement to be sure you are progressing as you should be.
Myth #10: Braces are the only option for straightening your teeth
Braces are the most common method of teeth correction. But it’s not the only option available to you! Advancements in orthodontic technology have created more ways for you to achieve your smile goals. In addition to traditional braces, we also offer clear braces and Invisalign clear aligners to our patients.
Get the facts with Timock Family Orthodontics
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding orthodontic treatment. And so you need an expert team with the correct information to help you start your treatment process on the right foot. Timock Family Orthodontics wants you to have an informed and stress-free orthodontic experience with our team of eager and well-trained doctors.
If you’re interested in seeking orthodontic treatment from an eager and well-trained team, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation. Excellent orthodontic care is only a few minutes from your home, work, or school with offices in Fort Collins and Windsor. There’s never been a better time!