Braces aren’t just for kids, though many children get braces at some point. Many adults are opting for braces nowadays, and the number of adults who have undergone orthodontic treatment is growing. Yet there are several myths and misconceptions holding many adults back from considering getting braces which could be robbing you from having the perfectly aligned teeth you’ve always wanted. Here are 6 common myths about braces for adults.
I’m Too Old
You are never too old for braces. Adults of all ages can benefit from the improved oral health that comes from relieving crowded teeth or poor alignment. This is why more dentists are recommending that adult patients get braces.
You also shouldn’t assume that you absolutely have to have a mouth full of metal at 40. After all, invisible braces that guide your teeth into position and relieve jaw stress will benefit you whether you’re 40 or 60. It is true that you’ll get more of a benefit if this type of treatment is done while the jaw is still growing, but you can still correct the problem in older patients.
Braces Cost Too Much for Me to Consider Them
While braces aren’t free, they probably aren’t as expensive as you think, even if the NHS won’t cover the cost. It mainly boils down to which option you pick. There are various types of braces, and they all have different price points along with pros and cons.
Clear aligners may be available for as low as £999.00, for instance. If you want to learn more about teeth braces, this article by Straight my Teeth looks at how these types of braces compare with other traditional braces. It also explains how do braces work, whether you chose the traditional metal braces or fancier lingual braces. They also explain some of the factors that can affect the price of each.
Braces Are Uncomfortable
This myth is based on history, not current reality. Metal braces worn in the 1970s and 1980s were often ugly and painful. Modern braces are less obtrusive and less painful. For example, they use fewer, smaller brackets. The wires are both smaller and more effective. This is why stainless-steel brackets are still used.
Not only that, but you have options that allow you to wear braces during the night only. If your situation isn’t serious or you don’t have an issue with waiting a bit longer to get straight teeth, you can go for night time aligners that will correct your teeth while you sleep.
Orthodontics Will Take Years
Advances in orthodontic techniques have significantly shortened treatment time, though the treatment duration will depend on your particular situation and the treatment option you choose.
Orthodontists now use less force over a longer period of time to move your teeth. That is one reason why modern braces aren’t as painful as those used 30 years ago. However, dentists nowadays have far more information than their predecessors. Using information from digital x-rays and 3D treatment plans, they can plan the treatment from every angle. The end result is faster treatment.
In the case of clear aligners, people have reported seeing positive results after only 10 months. The whole procedure can be completed in about 12 to 18 months.
Braces Are Only Worn for Cosmetic Reasons
Getting braces can indeed transform your smile. However, there are legitimate medical reasons to get braces.
If you straighten your teeth, they’ll be easier to clean. This reduces the odds of gum disease and cavities forming. Furthermore, gum disease is linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. This is because bacteria resulting from infections can enter the bloodstream through the gums and lead to a variety of issues ranging from kidney disease to all sorts of cancers, so this isn’t something you can afford to take lightly.
Straightening your teeth can reduce abnormal wear on them as well. Balancing your bite may alleviate the associated headaches or ease TMJ pain. Depending on your situation, braces may help you speak, chew, and even breathe. Or, the braces may create the space necessary to install dental implants.
The Braces Will Be Ugly
Traditional metal braces were massive, ugly things. Today, modern braces use smaller brackets and thinner wires. You also now have the option of ceramic or clear braces that are virtually invisible to the naked eye. Only people who really know you and are used to seeing you might be able to spot them. So, you don’t have to worry about getting the “Ugly Betty” look and consider all the options there are out there.
Roughly 1 in 5 orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. These numbers will grow as the public learns the truth about braces instead of shying away due to popular myths and misconceptions.
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