Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting specific dental issues and improving smiles. This process involves using traditional braces and clear aligners to correct such issues. Thanks to orthodontic treatments, many people have regained their self-esteem and smile they have wanted for so long. Thousands of patients with bad bites or misaligned jaws have also benefited from this treatment and now have healed completely.
However, besides being beneficial for thousands of people, orthodontic treatment is surrounded by controversy. Some people associate it with the young generation. Others think using braces increases your chances of being struck by lightning, and there are those who say all orthodontic treatments are expensive. Fortunately, these notions are just myths and misconceptions. To help readers become well-informed, this article aims at debunking these common myths about orthodontics.
All Orthodontic Treatments Are Expensive
Many people aren’t happy with their smiles. They’d want to change them to be as ideal as possible. Unfortunately, while all they need is to visit a reputable orthodontic facility, such as Dental Artistry, they’re held back by the myth that all orthodontic treatments are expensive.
The notion that all orthodontic treatments are expensive isn’t true. You don’t have to experience low self-esteem due to an unwanted smile over a myth. Orthodontic service prices vary depending on your condition, facility, and geographic area. Therefore, it might be wise to inquire instead of giving up without trying. You never know; maybe the services you require are more affordable than you think.
Dental Braces Are Magnetic
Unfortunately, many people still believe the myth that traditional dental braces are magnetic and can get struck by lightning. Well, this is just a myth.
Traditional dental braces are made of metal alloys that consist of metal and non-metals. In other words, they don’t increase your chances of getting struck by lightning. In fact, your chances of getting struck by lightning are insignificant, with or without metal braces.
Orthodontics Isn’t For Everyone
This is the most common myth surrounding orthodontic treatments. Many people associate treatments like braces with teens and young adults. As a result, many older adults who are unhappy with their smiles or require such treatments to correct their dental issues have no choice but to live with their condition, resulting in low self-esteem.
However, this is just a myth. Everyone has the right to have their desired smile, regardless of how they get it. For this reason, everyone, young or old, can get orthodontic treatment at any leading orthodontic facility to improve their smile and treat dental issues. Gone are the days when people would judge an older person with braces. The stigma surrounding this notion is quickly fading away.
Dental Braces Interfere With One’s Life
Unlike before, today’s traditional dental braces aren’t so thick. They’re improved, and it takes only a few weeks to get used to them. Those who wouldn’t want to use traditional metallic braces can opt to use clear aligners or advanced dental braces made of clear invisible plastic. They tend to be comfortable, removable, and unnoticeable.
The belief that dental braces disrupt quality of life is far from the truth. With the help of your orthodontist, you can learn how to take care of and lead a normal life with braces. Come to think of it: Dental braces are treatments to improve one’s dental health and appearance. They aren’t made to disrupt life quality.
Orthodontic Treatment Aims To Improve Only Your Smile
Orthodontics treatment is among the best ways to improve your smile. However, these treatments aren’t only about creating beautiful smiles. They also correct dental issues, such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, overcrowded teeth, and spacing. Additionally, orthodontist treatments can correct a misaligned jawline.
You Need To Wear Braces For Years To See Results
Everyone’s teeth are different, and so are their orthodontic needs. If someone has worn braces for a prolonged period without seeing results, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you, too, require to use them for years.
For traditional braces to work effectively, you must follow your orthodontist’s advice and regularly visit them to have the wire tightened. On the other hand, if you use clear aligners, you should avoid removing them regularly to avoid interfering with their functioning. If you do so, otherwise, the trays might not work effectively, resulting in prolonged use.
However, with the correct use of braces and adherence to your orthodontist’s advice, you might attain your perfect smile within several months of using them.
Braces Impair Your Speech
Lingual braces are installed near the tongue. As a result, they can interfere with your speech in the first few weeks after installation. Nevertheless, the lisp will disappear, and you’ll retain your normal speech as you get used to the braces. Therefore, it isn’t true that braces impair one’s speech permanently. They only do so for a little while.
Conclusion
No matter what you consider doing, there will always be misconceptions, beliefs, myths, and lies surrounding it. This applies even to health care practices, such as orthodontic treatments.
Different people have different views concerning such treatments, with some associating them with young people and improving smiles only. Nevertheless, many beliefs surrounding orthodontic treatments are myths with no substantial evidence to back the claims.
If you’ve encountered myths like the ones mentioned above, don’t consider them when determining whether to get the treatment. And if you still have questions after your research, consult a reputable orthodontist to get accurate information.