Are you ready to give your child the straight smile they’ve been waiting for? Braces are the way to go. However, with so many braces myths on the market, how can you sort fact from fiction?
Here at Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here for your child’s braces journey. That’s why we’ve put together this list of braces myths you need to know – so you can make an informed decision for you and your child.
Myth: I’ll have to wear braces forever to get a straight smile
Many patients worry that treatment will last years and years no matter their smile goals. You may have seen horror stories or listened to one too many stories from your grandparents – but don’t worry, these aren’t your grandmother’s braces!
Fact: Depending on your needs, treatment times may vary.
While it is certainly possible that braces may take a few years to correct your alignment, it is not true that this is the only forecast for straight teeth. Each individual requires a different treatment plan depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of their case, appliances used, desired outcomes, and response to treatment. Patients can expect their braces treatment to last between 12-36 months, but most cases are on the shorter side of this range.
Myth: Only teens get braces
We’ve all seen teenage movies and TV shows that depict teens with a mouth full of metal. Because of how the media portrays orthodontic treatment, you might be worried that only teens get braces, but this could not be further from the truth!
Fact: No matter your age, braces will straighten your smile.
Did you know that one in every five Sycamore patients is over the age of 18? We’re sure adult braces are the world’s best-kept secret. Everyone benefits from orthodontic treatment, and with so many comfortable and discreet treatment options, you can have the smile you want at any age!
Myth: Braces are too expensive
Braces are just like any other medical procedure, and that might make you worried that they’ll cost a fortune. Paying these costs outright might seem impossible, but don’t worry – Dr. B and Dr. Sarah have you covered.
Fact: Our payment plans make braces an affordable reality.
At Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, our competitive pricing and flexible payment options allow us to work within your budget to create a customized payment plan to make sure orthodontic treatment is well within your means. We accept a wide range of insurance plans and even offer a FREE consultation for kids so that your child can get started with your smile journey on the right foot.
Myth: Braces will keep me from playing my favorite sport or instrument
There’s a longstanding misconception that getting braces means you can’t go to after-school practices for sports or band. You might think that the brackets and wires get in the way of playing an instrument or picking up a game of basketball, but this one’s a myth!
Fact: With the proper equipment, you can stay on the field or in the gym even while undergoing treatment.
Are you worried that you won’t be able to participate in the woodwind section of your school band or that you’ll be missing out on significant practice for your high school football career? You can breathe a sigh of relief – this one is a myth!
You can expect an adjustment period while you get used to playing your instrument with a new set of braces, but once you feel comfortable, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting back into the swing of things! As for sports practice, just wear a mouthguard, and you’re good to go.
Myth: The only way to get a straight smile is by wearing traditional metal braces
Because braces are the most popular treatment option, many people believe that they’re the only option. They might even think that straightening their teeth isn’t worth it if they have to wear braces, but they aren’t your only treatment options!
Fact: At Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, you’ve got three treatment plans to choose from.
Metal braces aren’t for everyone. In fact, each treatment plan we offer works differently for everyone, and we take the time to make sure you’ve got the right treatment plan for your unique smile. While the traditional wire-and-bracket braces are usually the first that come to mind, Dr. B and Dr. Sarah also offer Invisalign clear aligners. Be sure to ask about your treatment options when you join us for your free consultation!
Myth: There’s only one benefit to braces – a straight smile
Because we advertise the beautiful smile you’ll get from braces, you may believe your smile is the only benefit. Fortunately, there are so many other reasons to get braces!
Fact: Braces come with lots of benefits.
Like a domino effect, the health of your teeth often impacts your overall health. Although a straight smile is often the first thing that comes to mind when considering getting braces, there are actually multiple reasons a trip to the orthodontist might improve your oral health.
A misaligned jaw or malocclusion could lead to difficulty with speech, digestion, and even breathing. Braces help address these issues, making sure that you are at your healthiest.
Myth: Braces are unattractive
The movies have it wrong – again! Some patients are concerned that braces are unsightly, but remember: these aren’t your grandmother’s braces!
Fact: With the technology of the future, some braces are almost invisible!
With smaller brackets and wires, less obstructive designs, and more comfortable materials, you’ll hardly notice you have braces – and the best part is that none of your peers will notice either! At Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we even offer clear ceramic braces and clear aligners that blend in with your teeth for a more natural look than traditional braces.
Myth: My dentist can straighten my teeth
Dentists are your go-to for all things teeth, right? Not quite. For cleanings, visit a dentist. For braces, visit your orthodontist.
Fact: You should only get orthodontic treatment from a trained orthodontist.
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Just like in any other area of medicine, orthodontists specialize in our own particular area of oral health. You’ll definitely want to see a dentist to keep your teeth white and clean, but when it comes to straightening your teeth, you should stick with Dr. B and Dr. Sarah.
Your Child Deserves the Best!
At Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we’re dedicated to giving you and your child the best orthodontic experience possible. With three different treatment options and a team of experts at your side, you’ll feel comfortable every step of the way. If you’re ready to get started, schedule your child’s free consultation in Sycamore today!