The truth about braces or clear aligners is far from commonly understood.
Here are some myths about braces and correcting crooked teeth you need to know.
I’m Too Old
You may think you’re too old, but you can get your smile corrected at any age. True, it’s a really good idea to bring your children to the orthodontist early, as correcting teeth is a good idea while the jaw and teeth are still developing, but most people can still benefit from orthodontics well into adulthood.
Healthy teeth can be moved into proper location successfully at any age! If you’ve had crooked teeth staring back at you from the mirror your entire life, know it’s never too late to get them fixed.
Dentists and Orthodontists Are the Same
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Both have gone to school to be trained as dentists, but the difference is orthodontists have gone through another degree after dental school to specialize in the correction of teeth and jaws. In reality, when it comes to straightening teeth and jaws, an orthodontist is the person who does it day in and day out and, therefore, has more training and experience.
My Teeth Are Crooked Because of Wisdom Teeth
Many people believe wisdom teeth cause crowding in the mouth and, thus, cause their other teeth to become crooked. Studies have shown that teeth drift forward throughout a person’s life—whether wisdom teeth have been removed or not! If you think you can avoid needing braces by pre-emptively removing your wisdom teeth, it’s time to book a visit with your orthodontist and consider braces or clear aligners.
Braces Straighten Crooked Teeth Forever
This is an important one, and something many people get wrong. They believe that, once finished with their orthodontic treatment, their teeth will be straight forever. The truth, unfortunately, is that your teeth may keep shifting.
Once treatment with orthodontics is complete, you will still need to wear a retainer for some time afterwards. As said, your teeth continue to shift throughout your life. Braces are meant to correct the most intense misalignments, but more care will have to go into maintaining straight teeth afterwards.
Traditional Braces Are the Only Braces
The image you likely have of traditional braces comes from movies where a lot of metal is sticking out of someone’s mouth. Here’s the good news: traditional metal braces don’t look like that. The technology has come a long way. But even better—that’s not your only option. With metal, lingual, self-litigating, ceramic, and removable aligners available, you have options that will fit your lifestyle and budget.
There are many myths and misconceptions about braces and fixing crooked teeth. The best way to be put on the right path is by talking to your orthodontist. He or she is the specialist who knows the ins and outs of orthodontic are and can get you set up with a treatment plan that fits your needs. Stop waiting. Take action today and be proud of your smile tomorrow.
