Lee Orthodontics

4 Common Myths About Braces, Busted

Posted on July 23, 2020

Braces are one of the most recommended types of orthodontic treatment, and for good reason. There are many benefits to braces including a reduced risk of cavities and periodontal disease, a reduced risk of injury from protruding teeth, and a reduced risk of jaw problems caused by misaligned teeth.

However, despite the advantages to braces, there are many misconceptions surrounding braces treatments that often keep patients from seeking help. Even if you have the best orthodontist, you may not know what’s a myth and what’s the truth about braces. To clear the air, here are some of the most common myths about braces and orthodontics and the real truth of this popular treatment.

  1. You’ll need to wear braces for years to get straight teeth. The amount of time a person will need to wear braces for depends on the amount of correction needed. The more shifting needed, the longer the length of treatment. Typically, the average length of time you’ll need to wear braces is about two years. Children often see orthodontic results faster than adults do.
  2. Your teeth will be straight forever once the braces are off. Braces help to align your teeth to where they need to be for a proper bite. However, your teeth can shift out of place again once your braces are removed. That’s why your orthodontist gives you a retainer to help maintain the newly-aligned position of your teeth.
  3. Braces are for kids and teenagers. Many kids and teenagers get braces because their teeth respond to the braces treatment much faster. However, many adults get braces, too. In fact, about one out of every five people who receive braces is an adult.
  4. Braces are painful. This is perhaps the most common myth that keeps dental patients from reaching out to get the treatment they need. While braces may be uncomfortable during the adjustment period, they should never be painful. After the adjustment period, many orthodontic patients forget that they’re wearing braces at all.

Looking for some of the best orthodontists in Abilene, TX? Look no further than the orthodontist office of Lee Orthodontics. We provide a wide variety of orthodontic treatments including braces and Invisalign. To learn more about our orthodontic treatment options or to schedule a consultation, contact Lee Orthodontics today.