If you’re like most people, you probably think of a teenager wearing braces whenever someone mentions orthodontics. Although many orthodontic patients are indeed teens, treatment can benefit patients of all ages. There’s never a bad time to work on improving your smile, even if you’re an adult! More adults than ever before are exploring orthodontics as a way to achieve a straighter smile, with about 1 in every 5 current patients over the age of 18. That number continues to grow each day, so we’re debunking some of the most common myths about adult braces.
If you’ve spent years feeling self-conscious about how your teeth look or function, this is the perfect time to take a look at how Brilliant Smiles Orthodontics can help! We offer a variety of treatment options to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, including traditional braces. While today’s braces are comfortable, efficient, and affordable, many patients are still not sure about using them to improve their oral health. This is often because of what they think they know about braces.
If you’ve been hesitant to consider traditional braces as a treatment option, keep reading below as we debunk some of the most common myths about braces. We’ll also give you a look at why these orthodontic powerhouses are the most popular orthodontic treatment around, year after year!
Myth #1: Braces are just for kids
You’re never too old to take advantage of the many benefits orthodontics has to offer! As we age, we often begin to understand the many ways our oral health is related to our total body health. This can result in a desire to take better care of our teeth and gums, which may include seeking dental care or orthodontic treatment.
Many adults have crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, or other issues that they’ve waited years to correct. Others would just like to improve their smile cosmetically. Whatever your reason for seeking treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, more confident smile!
Myth #2: Braces will make you even more self-conscious about your smile
If you’re already feeling shy about your teeth, the last thing you want is to draw even more attention to them! Many people think that’s exactly what will happen if you get braces, but thanks to modern technology, there are multiple treatments available to adult patients. For a complete smile makeover, Brilliant Smiles offers the following options:
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces are one of our most popular and efficient treatments. Generally made of high-quality stainless steel, modern metal braces are much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with a variety of fun colored bands to choose from if you want to show off a little personality with your smile! These braces deliver excellent results and are especially useful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic or tooth-colored braces, these function the same way metal braces do. However, they provide patients with the additional benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Both options blend in well with your natural smile. The brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but much less noticeable. When we pair them with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, they are an incredibly subtle way to straighten your smile. This makes them an especially attractive choice for our adult patients.
Clear aligner therapy
Aligner therapy consists of a series of removable plastic trays that fit over the teeth and gently move them into the desired positions over time. These customized clear aligners are replaced with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movement of your teeth. Aligner therapy offers patients a bit more freedom and flexibility than fixed braces since the aligners can be removed when eating or drinking. It also makes maintaining an oral hygiene routine much simpler since patients brush and floss as they normally would.
Myth #3: Braces will be painful
Fortunately, modern orthodontic treatment can move the teeth far more gently and effectively than it has in the past. Braces in general are more comfortable than they’ve ever been, and although you may occasionally experience a little discomfort as outlined below, these minor issues are usually easy to take care of with a little know-how.
General mouth irritation
Non-specific irritation in your cheeks, lips, or gums isn’t uncommon over the course of your treatment. Orthodontic wax is an easy way to get some relief! Make sure the bracket or wire is completely dry, then pinch off a small amount of wax and roll it into a ball. Flatten this ball and then gently but firmly place it over the source of irritation.
Protruding wires
Occasionally, a wire may come loose and irritate the inside of your mouth. This can be fixed with nothing more than an ordinary pencil by using the eraser end to nudge it back against the teeth until it flattens out. You can also place a piece of orthodontic wax over the wire to reduce irritation and provide extra stability.
Loose brackets
We’ll need to know about loose brackets as soon as possible so we can help you decide what the next step should be. In the meantime, however, try sliding the bracket back along the wire to the center of the tooth. Orthodontic wax placed over the bracket can also add stability.
Tenderness in your mouth or gums
You may have some slight tenderness immediately after your braces are put on, or following adjustment appointments. A salt water rinse is an excellent home remedy that can be beneficial for braces patients. To relieve soreness, simply mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, then swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds.
A warm washcloth or a warm heating pad placed on the outside of your jaw can also offer you some relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another useful remedy, just be sure to check with Dr. Chiang first!
Myth #4: Braces are too expensive
There’s no getting around the fact that orthodontic treatment of any kind is an investment of your time and finances, but the benefits can last a lifetime! Here at Brilliant Smiles Orthodontics, you’ll never have to worry about any hidden costs. During your free consultation, we’ll outline everything included in your treatment plan, such as:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
Our treatment fees reflect our skillful technique, the quality of the technology we use, and the world-class service we provide to all our patients. We appreciate what a big investment treatment can be, and our office will work with you to find a payment option to fit your family’s budget! We offer no interest, and in-office financing, and also accept cash, checks, credit cards, debit cards, and automatic monthly payment options. If you have dental insurance that covers orthodontics, we will be happy to verify your orthodontic benefits and process your insurance forms for you.
Get the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted with braces by Brilliant Smiles Orthodontics
No matter your age, braces can be an excellent option for straightening your teeth and improving your oral health. By choosing an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Chiang, you can be certain you’re receiving only the best treatment for your unique smile! Our expert team will provide you with a rewarding orthodontic experience that’s fun and stress-free from your first appointment to your last! If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation.
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Dr. Chiang