
- by Dr. Karanjit Dhillon
- January 18, 2023
Dental braces are devices that help correct issues like crowded, crooked, or misaligned teeth. Braces are one of the most sought-after orthodontic Treatments which slowly straighten and align the teeth as one wears them, helping to provide a normal bite and a perfect smile to the person.
However, there are many misconceptions about the use of braces. We understand that fear and apprehension of the unknown can make anyone nervous and many times keep them from undergoing a dental or orthodontic procedure. But we do not want you to miss enjoying the benefits of straight, healthy, and beautiful teeth and a perfect smile because of these fears or misconceptions, the majority of which are untrue with today’s modern orthodontic treatment.
Let us give you a fact for each Myth you might have ever believed when it comes to the use of braces.
Myth 1: Braces Are Only For Teenagers
Patients of almost every age group can reap the benefits of braces. Although indeed, most of the orthodontic patients who get braces are usually teenagers, braces are used for and benefit adults and younger children also, equally. Many adults with issues of their bite and other complications need braces to correct them.
Braces are also needed before teenage at times in some patients as a part of two-phase orthodontics as an early initial treatment for bite problems as the more comprehensive treatment needed later may otherwise lead to injury.
Myth 2: No Need To See An Orthodontic Treatments Till You Have All The Adult Teeth
Contrary to this popular belief, experts recommend that ideally, the age for the first orthodontic visit should be between 7 to 10 years. This early appointment can help the orthodontist to assess the condition of the child’s bite among many other things.
This allows the orthodontist to decide whether early intervention is needed to correct a bite issue that would otherwise require surgery at a later stage after growth ends. Moreover, this also allows the orthodontist to check any spacing issues which may need fixing as adult teeth might not leave enough space for the same. Any damaging pressure that can cause the teeth to come in the wrong way or influence the shape of the jawbone and maxillary can also be identified at this time.
Myth 3: It Takes Years For Braces To Get Results.
Indeed, you cannot get straight teeth with braces in a day or a week but at the same time, it does not also take years to get results in some cases. The orthodontist at Morgan Hill Dentistry carefully controls and monitors the moving of teeth into place gradually and in the desired manner. Shifting the teeth too fast can make the roots shorter, causing them to fall out eventually.
The duration for which one needs to wear braces depends on the type of treatment one needs. For example, a patient with minor misalignments will only need braces for a few months while one with complicated misalignments might take around 12-18 months to treat.
However, some rare and complicated cases may need more time. An estimate of the time you may need to wear the braces is given by the orthodontist at the time of consultation.
It is important that one should approach only orthodontists for braces as they are specially trained for the treatment and steer clear of businesses that offer immediate results.
Myth 4: Braces Do Not Look Good, Are Painful, & Are Expensive.
Braces may cause some discomfort in the beginning but are very comfortable to wear after the initial adjustment period as your teeth move.
Modern-day braces are not awkward looking as they used to be in the past and at our orthodontic clinic in Morgan Hill clinic, we offer you options that are quite discreet like clear braces, ceramic braces, and lingual braces.
Advances in orthodontic technology have made orthodontic treatment far more affordable and less expensive than in the past.
Myth 5: Seeing An Orthodontist Needs A Referral
This assumption is baseless as while a dentist may sometimes refer the patients to an orthodontist they like or know, one can consult any orthodontist they want to and whenever they want to. Call our clinic and make an appointment for an orthodontic consultation which warrants no obligations.
Myth 6: Braces Can Trigger Metal Detectors.
Though braces do have metal components but being very lightweight, they do not trigger metal detectors at the airport and other security checkpoints.
Myth 7: Regular Visits To An Orthodontist Are Not Required To Straighten The Teeth.
Orthodontic treatments do require regular visits to orthodontists as this helps the doctor to monitor the progress of the treatment. Any negligence may only cause the treatment time to get longer.
The regular visits give your orthodontist a chance to track the treatment and also help them to assess any issues that may arise mid-treatment and address them immediately.
Myth 8: Straight teeth treatments are just for aesthetic purposes.
Crooked and misaligned teeth not only affect one’s appearance and confidence but can also impact oral health. Spaces between the teeth can many times not be cleaned properly by a toothbrush or floss. This can allow food debris to accumulate causing plaque and eventually resulting in cavities.
Orthodontic treatments not only improve your smile but also your all-around well-being and can improve your self-esteem and outlook on life.
Why is Orthodontic Treatments Important?
Orthodontic treatments can help straighten or move crooked teeth into a better position. This not only improves their appearance but also makes it easier to clean them and maintain good oral hygiene.
In some people, the upper front teeth that stick out can look unattractive and be more susceptible to damage. This issue can be easily rectified with orthodontic treatments by the orthodontist at Morgan Hill Dentistry.
The teeth that do not meet properly can also cause strain to the jaw muscles leading to problems with not only your jaws and joints but can also cause headaches.
Orthodontic treatments help to improve your bite, reducing the strain it places on your teeth & jaws.
A word from Us
The myths about dentistry and orthodontics can discourage many people from the much-needed treatment.
However, the right knowledge can help you make the right decision. A professional orthodontist or dentist can help you achieve your smile goals in the most convenient way possible.
At Morgan Hill Dentistry we also provide options for discreet braces for those who are conscious of them.
If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Morgan Hill, you must book an appointment with our clinic. We are renowned for our teeth straightening treatments and other dental procedures.
Our team is committed to keeping your gums and teeth in the best possible shape.
Call us to learn more about orthodontic treatments and ask us questions regarding the orthodontic treatment and clarify any concerns or doubts you may have today.