The braces experience is a rite of passage for many teenagers. Unfortunately, braces come with their fair share of myths that can be confusing and even concerning to some patients. Understandably, there are many questions surrounding braces when they’re first being considered, and the unknown can be a bit overwhelming. To set the record straight and make braces less intimidating, let’s bust some of these myths once and for all!
7 Myths About Braces
Myth 1: Braces Hurt All The Time
The idea that braces are always painful is probably one of the biggest misconceptions out there. Yes, braces can cause some discomfort when first applied or after adjustments, but this is usually very manageable. Most patients find that taking an over-the-counter pain reliever before and after braces appointments helps reduce any aches or pains that may be experienced.
Myth 2: Braces Take Too Long To Work
It’s true that braces can take some time to work, but the duration depends on the individual case. Generally speaking, braces may take anywhere from 6 months to a couple of years in order to see results. Depending on how severe your teeth are misaligned, you may require more or less treatment. Your orthodontist will be able to accurately determine a timeline after examining your teeth.
Myth 3: Braces Are Too Visible
Modern braces are much sleeker and less visible than braces of the past. Thanks to advances in technology, braces can be made with tooth-coloured wires and brackets that make them hardly noticeable. There are also clear braces that are nearly invisible when worn making them a popular braces choice for older teens and adults.
Myth 4: Braces Are Expensive
Braces are an investment, but they don’t have to break the bank. Many dental insurance plans cover braces up to a certain amount and will happily pay for them. There are also flexible financing options available that allow patients to spread out their payments over time.
Myth 5: Braces Damage Teeth
The braces themselves won’t damage teeth, as they are designed to position them correctly and keep them healthy in the long run. However, braces can cause some initial tenderness or soreness when a patient first gets them, but this usually disappears after a few days.
Myth 6: Braces Are Only For Teens
Although braces are most commonly seen on teenagers, adults of all ages can and should get braces if needed. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than their 7th birthday to assess whether or not braces will be needed in the future.
Myth 7: Braces Require Constant Adjustment
Braces don’t require constant adjustments, but orthodontic visits every few months are necessary to ensure the braces are doing their job and that the patient is progressing well. During these appointments, any necessary changes can be made if needed.
Conclusion
Looking for braces shouldn’t be accompanied by harmful misconceptions or myths. We hope that this article helps bust some of the most common braces-related misconceptions and provides clarity about what braces are really all about.
FAQs:
Q1: How long does it take braces to work?
A1: Generally speaking, braces may take anywhere from 6 months to a couple of years in order to see results. Depending on how severe your teeth are misaligned, you may require more or less treatment.
Q2: Are braces expensive?
A2: Braces are an investment, but they don’t have to break the bank. Many dental insurance plans cover braces up to a certain amount and will happily pay for them. There are also flexible financing options available that allow patients to spread out their payments over time.
Q3: Are braces only for teenagers?
A3: No, braces can be used by patients of all ages. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than their 7th birthday to assess whether or not braces will be needed in the future.