Debunking Orthodontic Myths: Facts vs. Fiction
There are several myths, half-truths and misconceptions surrounding dental care. Unfortunately, some of them are about orthodontic treatment. They cause undue worry and deter individuals who are considering the procedures. Read on and find out the myths and facts about orthodontic treatment.
What Is Orthodontics?
It is a specialty in dentistry that focuses on aligning and straightening teeth. Orthodontics corrects the appearance and function of crooked, overlapped, twisted or gapped teeth. They also improve dental hygiene, health, and function. In addition, the treatments reduce discomfort due to TMJ disorder. The treatments in orthodontics usually use braces, clear aligners, palate expanders and retainers.
Myths About Orthodontic Treatments Debunked
Today, people have so many sources of information concerning dental treatments. Unfortunately, some sources produce inaccurate or exaggerated information. Consequently, the individuals who hear the misconceptions fear pursuing specific therapies.
Below are facts from the experts providing orthodontics treatment in Missouri City, TX. They will help you separate the truth from the myths. As a result, you can make informed decisions about potential orthodontic treatments.
- Orthodontic treatment is only for children and teenagers.
It is true that the majority of patients who seek orthodontics are kids and teenagers. Their developing jaws and teeth make the treatments conducive. However, orthodontics is not limited to them only. Adults, too, can undergo the treatments. They can get beautiful smiles that make them appear younger. Treatments like Invisalign are ideal for adults because they are discreet.
- Orthodontics is only about aesthetics
Although improved aesthetics is a benefit of orthodontic treatment, it is not the only positive outcome. Getting a straighter and more attractive smile has several other advantages. They include improved chewing and speech functions and countering sleep apnea.
Straightening teeth also makes it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene resulting in improved oral health. In addition, it prevents excessive tooth wear. Treatment eases the pressure of misaligned teeth put on the nearby teeth preventing damage. Finally, orthodontics alleviates jaw pain and headaches caused by misaligned teeth.
- Orthodontic treatments take too long
The fact is people have different orthodontic issues ranging from severe to mild. As a result, some treatments take a long time while others are completed in a few months. So you may not need to wear braces for several years before seeing results.
The dentist in Missouri City will evaluate your smile to determine the expected treatment period. They will prescribe modern clear braces like Invisalign if your treatment is complex. These have a shorter treatment time. Invisalign aligners can give you a straighter smile within six months.
- Orthodontics is painful
Indeed you will experience mild discomfort when you start using braces. Also, you may feel pain when they are being adjusted. However, the discomfort is temporary, and a dentist will help you to alleviate it. Fortunately, orthodontics with Invisalign is comfortable and pain-free. The aligners are easy to use and do not scrape your gums, cheek or lips.
- Orthodontic treatment can disrupt your life
It may have been true several decades ago before the advancements in dentistry. The braces used then had uncomfortable and unsightly metal brackets and wires. As a result, they impacted the smile and appearance of the patient, making it hard to socialize. Also, you had to visit the dentist severally throughout the process. This required you to take time off work or school.
However, today orthodontic treatment is highly convenient. The dental experts replaced bulky traditional braces with small, comfortable and low-profile ones. In addition, they provide discreet clear aligners. These allow you to eat normally and do not hinder your social life. Also, you do not need to visit the dentist frequently during Invisalign treatment.
- Orthodontic treatment is unaffordable
The truth is orthodontic treatment is free for kids below 18 years through the NHS. Adults needing orthodontics medically can have it charged as a complex treatment. However, orthodontic treatment costs more for adults who need it for aesthetics.
However, you should not hold off seeking orthodontic treatment. The benefits of the procedures are numerous and impact your oral and overall health. They are well worth any costs you will incur.
Instead, contact the team at Joy Dental for an appointment. We provide affordable treatments to all our patients. In addition, we will work with your insurance and provide payment plan options ideal for your budget.