6 Common Myths
About Orthodontics Busted
Orthodontic technology and treatments have come a long way over the last 10 years, making a straight, healthy smile much more accessible. Even still, there are myths or misconceptions that we often hear that sometimes make people hesitant about starting orthodontic treatment. Many of these are not true. In this article, we’ll go through some of the most common myths about orthodontics and provide the facts:
#1 – Braces And Other Orthodontic Treatments Are Only Meant For Kids
This is false. You are never too old for orthodontic treatment. No matter if it is in a kid or adult, during treatment, the same physiological process happens to move teeth through bone into their desired position. Orthodontic treatment as an adult can be just as effective as with a kid. Straightening your smile will help prevent abnormal wear of your teeth, reduce the chance of tooth decay and gum disease, improve chewing and other functions, and boost your confidence.
The broader range of options when it comes to types of orthodontic treatments has opened up the possibilities for a beautiful smile as an adult. According to the American Association Of Orthodontists (AAO), the number of adults going through orthodontic treatment is higher than ever. Now, 1-in-3 patients are over the age of 18.
In many cases, adults are often better candidates for the less discrete treatment options like Invisalign, Damon clear braces, or lingual braces (on the backside of the teeth).
#2 – Orthodontics Is Too Expensive
This is one of the most common myths about orthodontics. Getting a smile you are proud of is not too expensive to be accessible. It is a wise investment in your long-term health and well-being. It is not uncommon for the perceived cost of orthodontic treatment to be the biggest cause of hesitation. But, here at Cook & Gutsche Orthodontics, the last thing we want is thoughts about your budget to prevent you from achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. We want to work together to provide the best and most affordable treatment for you.
Many dental insurance plans cover a large portion of orthodontic treatment. Also, there are financing options available to make comprehensive care more affordable and accessible. Initial consultations are free and you can get all the information you need to move forward with your treatment confidently.
#3 – Orthodontic Treatment Takes Several Years To Complete
This is rarely the case. If a complex dental issue is present, or a combination of complex issues, treatment could take a couple of years. But, in many cases, the length of time for active treatment ranges from 6 to 12 months to achieve the desired results. There are now treatment options available that can help move teeth more quickly than in the past.
Even in situations where treatment is needed longer, more discreet options are available to make the appliances much less noticeable.
Of course, every situation is different, so we will work with you to outline what the best treatment options for you would be and outline the plan that would be most effective.
#4 – Office Visits Aren’t Needed For Orthodontics
This is one of the common myths about orthodontics that is becoming more prevalent with the rise of online and at-home orthodontics treatments that promote cheaper and “faster” results. For the safest and most effective orthodontics treatments, in-office checkups by a licensed professional orthodontist to monitor the treatment progress are essential.
Effective orthodontic treatment is a very customized process that starts from the first consultation and continues to evolve as needed throughout active treatment and after. The health of your gums, teeth, and jaw cannot be properly monitored without occasional office visits. These visits also provide the opportunity to catch any problems if they arise, fix them quickly, and keep you on track for your treatment plan.
The good thing is, with the advancement of orthodontic technology it is now possible for the interval between appointments to be lengthened to as long as 8 to 10 weeks.
#5 – Orthodontics Are Only For Cosmetic Purposes
Of course, an improved appearance is the first thing many people notice about having orthodontic treatment done. But, it actually goes much deeper than just cosmetically.
When the teeth are in alignment and straight, it means improved function, like chewing, biting, etc, as well as improved oral health. Misaligned teeth or gaps between teeth make it easier for food particles to get stuck and plaque to build up. Thus increasing the chance of cavities, periodontal disease, and other issues. Orthodontic treatment can also help people who have jaw bone abnormalities, over or underbites, and TMJ disorder.
A straight, beautiful looking smile is just the outward appearance of optimal oral health.
#6 – Your Teeth Will Stay Where They Are At When Active Treatment Is Complete
This is not usually the case. Our teeth naturally want to move and shift throughout our lifetime. Also, sometimes, further down the line, some accidents or illnesses might happen that will affect the alignment of your teeth. For these reasons, it is important to continue to do what you can after active treatment to help protect your investment in your smile.
Wearing a retainer at night after your active orthodontic treatment is complete is the best way to keep your teeth in their desired position. If you do what you can to maintain your smile, if you do need a little tweaking to the alignment of your teeth further down the road, there are plenty of options available that don’t require a full set of braces.
You Can Move Forward Confidently With Orthodontics
When you have the facts about orthodontics, you can move forward confidently to achieve the goal of the healthy, beautiful smile you want. Our expert team here at Cook & Gutsche Orthodontics wants to make sure you have all the information you need, clear up any myths about orthodontics, and answer any questions you may have. We have the experience, skills, and technology to help customize the best treatment plan for you and give you your best smile.
If you would like more information on orthodontics, have questions about how treatment might look for you, or want to schedule your initial consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us today!