Orthodontic treatment is a common dental procedure that involves the use of braces, aligners, and other devices to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. While orthodontic treatment can greatly improve the appearance and function of the teeth, some patients may be hesitant to undergo treatment due to a variety of reasons. These reasons may include concerns about pain, appearance, length of treatment, cost, and fear of the unknown. Understanding these fears and concerns can help patients make informed decisions about their dental health and alleviate any anxiety they may have about orthodontic treatment.
18 Common Myths about Orthodontic Treatment
There are so many rumors and myths about orthodontic treatment that sometimes it can be hard to tell what’s true, what’s slightly (or grossly) exaggerated and what’s complete nonsense. Hopefully, after reading our list of 18 common orthodontic myths you can feel educated about orthodontics and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
Orthodontic treatment is only for children: Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Many adults also receive orthodontic treatment to improve the alignment of their teeth and bite. In fact, at Bloom Orthodontics, nearly a third of our patients are adults that either never had braces as a kid or just need a little tune-up.
Braces are the only option for orthodontic treatment: There are a variety of orthodontic treatment options available, including clear aligners, lingual braces, and self-ligating braces. The option that’s right for you will be discussed during your complimentary consultation with Dr. Bloom after he’s had a chance to evaluate your x-rays, photos, and 3D scan of your teeth.
Braces are painful: While there may be some discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment, it should not be overly painful. Any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Typically, this discomfort only occurs at the beginning of treatment and will subside after about one week.
Orthodontic treatment takes years to complete: The length of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the patient's needs, but most treatment plans take between 18-24 months. For patients that only require small corrections, treatment can take as little as 6 months.
Orthodontic treatment is purely cosmetic: While improving the appearance of your smile is a benefit of orthodontic treatment, it also helps to improve the function of your bite and the health of your teeth and gums. A beautiful smile has also been shown to increase self-confidence and improve self-image.
Braces can interfere with playing musical instruments: While there may be an adjustment period when first getting braces, most people are able to continue playing musical instruments without issue. For patients that play brass instruments, other options (besides braces) may be more desirable such as Invisalign.
Braces can interfere with sports activities: While it is recommended to wear a mouthguard during sports activities to protect your teeth, braces should not interfere with your ability to play sports.
Orthodontic treatment can weaken teeth: Orthodontic treatment is not known to weaken teeth, but it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease during treatment.
Orthodontic treatment is only for severe cases: Orthodontic treatment can benefit patients with a variety of orthodontic problems, ranging from mild to severe.
Orthodontic treatment is only for people with crooked teeth: Orthodontic treatment can also help to correct bite problems, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Aligning your bite may help improve your ability to chew and eat, especially if some teeth do not touch when the patient bites down.
Retainers are not necessary after orthodontic treatment: Retainers are an essential part of maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Bloom recommends that retainers be worn every night to maintain tooth position and to prevent wear and tear on your teeth (especially if you grind your teeth).
Only metal braces work: While metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment, there are a variety of options available to suit individual patient needs.
Orthodontic treatment is too expensive: While orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment, many orthodontists offer payment plans to make treatment more affordable.
Orthodontic treatment requires frequent visits to the orthodontist: The frequency of orthodontic appointments varies depending on the patient's needs, but most patients require appointments every 6-8 weeks for our patients with braces and about every 10-12 weeks for patients with Invisalign.
Orthodontic treatment will make you talk funny: While there may be an adjustment period when first getting braces, most people are able to speak normally without issue.
Orthodontic treatment is only for people with good dental hygiene: While good oral hygiene is important during orthodontic treatment, it is not a requirement to receive treatment. At every adjustment appointment, we remove the wires and allow our patients to brush at our toothbrushing station. Oral hygiene is very important to us and we make sure our patient’s teeth stay healthy throughout treatment.
Orthodontic treatment will make you feel self-conscious: While there may be an adjustment period when first getting braces or Invisalign, most people adapt quickly and continue with their normal activities without feeling self-conscious.
Orthodontic treatment is only for people with severe pain: Orthodontic treatment is recommended for a variety of orthodontic problems, not just those that cause pain.
With so many options available at Bloom Orthodontics, there has never been a better time to schedule a consultation and see what orthodontic treatment can do for you. At each consultation, we used our 3D scanner to capture images of your teeth and show you exactly what’s going on and what can be done to make improvements. We can even use our outcome simulator to give you a rough idea about how your teeth will look after treatment. Our number one job is to inform and educate our patients so that they can leave our office feeling confident in whatever decision is made. Call us today at (720) 743-0700 to schedule your very own complimentary consultation with the best orthodontist in Lone Tree and Parker, Colorado - Dr. James Bloom, DDS.
Comments