Busting Common Myths About Orthodontics

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Over the years, people created a lot of common myths and misconceptions about orthodontic treatments. Some are created due to dental anxiety, and some come from bad experiences with orthodontic treatments. These misconceptions created a lot of doubts and fears that prevented people from trying treatments that could help them better.

In this article, let’s discuss the most common myths about orthodontics and explain the factual information to debunk them.

Myth #1. Orthodontics is for Children Only

People believe that when they age, it’s already too late for them to fix the alignment of their teeth and jaws. They believe that braces are only designed for children and teenagers and that if they don’t do it during their early ages, it will be too late for them. The truth is, there’s no age limit when it comes to improving your dental health. Regardless if you are 30+ years old, you can still try out braces or even consult them for better oral health. There’s no such thing as an age limit, but beware that the starting age recommended is seven years old and up.

Myth #2. Orthodontics is Only About Braces

While it is true that braces are the most popular and common orthodontic treatment, there are a lot more services you have. Several alternatives to traditional braces are available today, including lingual braces placed on the back of the teeth, ceramic braces that blend in with the teeth, and clear aligners like Invisalign. Each alternative has its perks that appeal to different needs and tastes. In addition, an orthodontist is also capable of performing surgical treatments for severe cases.

Myth #3. Orthodontic Treatments are Painful

Orthodontic treatments can cause discomfort during the early stages of treatment, especially if it is your first time. However, because of modern technology and techniques, some treatments are painless. Patients might experience some soreness and discomfort, but pain relievers can easily manage it.

Myth #4. Once the Braces are Off, the Treatment is Complete

Do you think that your journey is over once the braces are removed? It’s not. It’s an important milestone, but it won’t end your journey. After wearing braces for years, there is still a chance that your teeth will get back to their form when you stop maintaining them. This is why retainers are important. Once your orthodontist removes your braces, you must wear retainers to avoid slipping back to how it was before.

Kumra Orthodontics, an orthodontist in Woodbridge, VA, provides their client with high-quality retainers and post-treatments to avoid having slipbacks or bad results. Their team of expert orthodontists prioritizes the maintenance of their client’s teeth as much as the main procedure. If you are looking for orthodontics, consider looking for one that doesn’t just leave you behind after the treatment.

Myth #5. Orthodontic Treatment is Not Necessary for Minor Misalignments

Regardless if you have a lot of crooked teeth or just a minor misalignment, it is still essential to have it fixed. Even minor misalignments can cause a lot of problems in the future. Misaligned teeth can be very challenging to clean and might also affect how you clean the surrounding teeth. This challenge can cause tooth decay and gum diseases. As they said, better to be safe than sorry. Moreover, misaligned bites can cause jaw discomfort and difficulties in chewing.

Myth #6. DIY Orthodontics is Safe and Effective

There are a lot of kits available online that you can buy to do your DIY Orthodontics. In addition, a few people are selling fake braces for aesthetic purposes. Regardless of its popularity, it’s important to take note that this is not a safe thing to do. Orthodontists study years to perform even the simplest procedure, do not expect to learn it by watching youtube videos. In addition, using fake braces is unsanitary. Do not put anything inside your mouth without checking and ensuring they are safe.

Myth #7. Orthodontic Treatment is Purely for Aesthetic Purposes

Medical fields are not there simply for aesthetics. While it is true that orthodontics can enhance your facial features, it is not just entirely for that. Orthodontic procedures are performed to fix many issues, such as breathing problems, chewing issues, and even speech impairment. Aesthetics are just a bonus when it comes to orthodontics.

Myth #8. Orthodontics is Uncomfortable

As mentioned above, due to improvements in technology and techniques, orthodontic treatments are now created along with comfort and more function. While it is true that you can feel a bit of discomfort, it’s not something you can’t handle. In addition, a bit of discomfort is normal in any medical procedure, and orthodontic treatment is not exempted. If you are afraid or anxious, you can always ask your orthodontist for pain relievers or any numbing solutions.

Conclusion

Orthodontics is a valuable solution to a wide range of dental issues, and it’s important to note that their treatments are created for a special purpose. Debunking the myths created to induce dental anxiety and doubts should be done to make people understand and remember the importance of orthodontics. Remember, consult an experienced orthodontist to avoid misconceptions and better understand the procedure.