Are you thinking about pursuing orthodontic treatment for your smile? This may come with some hesitancy about braces, especially if you’ve heard some of the treatment process’s myths and rumors. Braces will require an adjustment period, but rest assured that many of the rumors you’ve heard are mostly false. Let’s look at the 10 braces myths you need to know and set the record straight about what you can expect from your journey with Elm Tree Orthodontics!
#1 Braces have to hurt to work
We hear from people every day who are worried that braces will cause them pain. This is one of the most significant concerns we see in new patients regarding the treatment process, and fortunately, it’s completely unfounded. Don’t let this myth scare you because your braces won’t cause any long-term pain or discomfort. When you first get your braces, you may feel some discomfort, but this is only temporary. Following your adjustment appointments, you may also experience soreness or irritation, but this will resolve itself after a short time.
#2 Braces will severely limit what you can eat
Food restrictions are probably one of the biggest learning curves to overcome on any orthodontic journey. However, it is important to avoid anything crunchy or sticky while in treatment. This also includes raw veggies like carrots or apples, popcorn, and candy with chewy bits, caramel, or nuts. Just remember that there are plenty of other delicious foods you can enjoy, and this will only be temporary! When you see your beautiful new smile, the minor inconvenience of food restrictions will be more than worth it!
#3 Braces will inhibit your ability to play certain instruments
This may be one of the biggest rumors surrounding orthodontic treatment, but it shouldn’t affect your decision to move forward with braces for you or your child. With the help of a simple orthodontic mouthguard, your child can continue playing sports safely.
There will be a slight adjustment period for specific instruments, but you’ll be able to continue making music without missing any practices or performances. Brass instruments will take more getting used to as they require players to press their lips directly onto the mouthpiece. However, woodwind instruments utilize a mouthpiece that requires indirect contact and makes it slightly easier to adjust.
#4 Braces are only effective for teens
Many people associate the term “orthodontics” with a teen in a complete set of metal braces. This stereotype has come to life over the years in pop culture. However, you might be surprised to learn that braces can benefit your smile no matter your age at Elm Tree Orthodontics. So whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, know that there is no age limit on achieving the stunning smile you’ve always wanted. This will improve your oral health and boost your self-confidence.
#5 The metal in your braces will set off metal detectors
Metal detectors are a common concern of our patients who travel frequently. We all know that going through airport security is stressful enough, so you shouldn’t need to worry that your braces will set off the metal detectors! Brackets and wires are made from high-quality metals and are not the same materials that metal detectors look for. So next time you’re somewhere with a metal detector, there’s no need to worry that your braces will cause a scene.
#6 Braces straighten your teeth forever
This may be more wishful thinking than a myth! Braces are a great solution for correcting your bite and straightening your teeth, but your teeth will continue shifting throughout your life. It’s essential to give your mouth time to grow its support once your braces are removed. In the first year post-treatment, your teeth can start shifting in as little as a few days.
As we mentioned before, you will need to use a retainer to apply more pressure and make sure your teeth stay in the new placement. Retainers apply some pressure, but it’s less than what your braces did and is essential for keeping your teeth in place.
Dr. Desai encourages you to wear a retainer regularly post-treatment to help minimize that shifting and keep your newly straightened teeth in place for years to come!
#7 Braces take years to straighten your smile
Orthodontic patients at Elm Tree Orthodontics will spend anywhere from 6-24 months in treatment, but this will vary since everyone’s smile and goals are different. Your estimated treatment time depends on several factors, including the severity of the case, how your teeth respond to treatment, desired improvements, and more.
In most cases, you will see signs of improvement in a short period. This glimpse of your new smile will be exciting and an extra encouragement as you continue the process.
#8 The wires on your braces will require frequent changes
It’s essential to attend regular follow-up visits throughout your treatment process. During your regular visits which are typically every 8-12 weeks, Dr. Desai will check on the progress of your treatment. If Dr. Desai notices a broken or damaged wire during your appointments, he’ll change it without a fuss and have you on your way in no time.
#9 Braces are only helpful for straightening teeth
Braces are great at straightening your teeth, but they also help resolve other oral health issues such as misaligned jaws or teeth. These can cause difficulty in everyday tasks like caring for your teeth, eating, and speaking. Our Elm Tree Orthodontics team will be able to address and correct these issues through orthodontic treatment. Braces also have other hidden benefits, including improved chewing, speech, oral health, and digestion.
#10 Braces are the only option for straightening your teeth
In our office in Hamden, we offer a variety of effective ways to straighten and correct your smile, including metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign clear aligners and lingual braces. These options can help fix any issues and give you the smile you’ve always wanted. It is important to remember that what works well for one patient may not be the best fit for another. When you schedule your free consultation with Dr. Desai, he’ll be able to examine your teeth and recommend the option that will work best for your specific needs.
Find your best smile with braces by Elm Tree Orthodontics
Choosing to get treatment with braces is a big decision, and we appreciate you trusting in our expert team along your journey. Our top goal is to provide you with a personalized treatment plan and a rewarding orthodontic experience so that you can see exceptional results. Whether you are considering braces or already have an appointment, we’re here for you! Get in touch to schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Desai or to talk through your concerns with us.
We look forward to meeting you soon!