Myths About Orthodontic Treatments

Being that October is National Orthodontic Health Month, this is the best time to set those annoying Orthodontic myths straight.

Myth 1: Orthodontic treatment is expensive:

Treatments can be complex and last two years or as little as a few months, so we carefully customize treatment plan options that give the patients flexibility and ease of mind to being able to straighten their teeth and correct their smiles. We offer free consultations, low down payments, and affordable monthly payment options to better assist in the financial burden that can come with perfecting your smile.

Myth 2: Anyone who provides braces and aligners is an orthodontist.

That is a HUGE, FALSE statement. While there are some dentists, online companies, and even people off the street that offer braces and aligners, but only an orthodontist has been given the proper advanced training and gone through an accredited residency required to be considered a true orthodontist and be a member of AAO (American Association of Orthodontists). Dr. Meagan has completed dental school and an additional 30 months of advanced specialty training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Meagan has gone a step further and is a Board-Certified Orthodontist, which, means she has presented cases to the American Board of Orthodontics. This distinction is rare among Orthodontists, and only the best Orthodontists are Board Certified. It is absolutely NOT worth the risk of permanent damage to your face and smile to allow anyone with lesser qualifications to move your teeth.

Myth 3: Orthodontic treatment means braces, which are always visible

Silver Smiles offers three types of treatment options. One is traditional braces, which, come in silver, champagne gold, and porcelain. The second is aligners, which, are clear plastic retainers that you wear full time and change weekly. The third option is the latest technology, called INBRACE, this technique hides the braces by placing them behind the teeth, making visibility no longer a worry!

Myth 4: Braces and Aligners are only for children and teenagers

This is FALSE. Patients of all ages, young and old, can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Age is not a concern when it comes to developing a healthy, beautiful smile. We see patients as young as seven and as old as 78, and 50% of our patients are over the age of 18. Adults often have more complicated cases, due to earlier dental work or other issues that can come with age. Therefore, it is important to see our certified orthodontic specialist, Dr. Meagan. Anytime is the right time to start feeling confident in your smile!

Myth 5: Orthodontic treatment is only about cosmetic appearance

There is so much more to orthodontic care than meets the eye. Other than an enhanced appearance, the teeth and jaw need to be in alignment so the functions of biting, chewing and even speaking can be improved, as well as overall dental hygiene and quality of life. A straight smile is an obvious sign of good oral health, and is a huge part of your overall well-being, mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Myth 6: Once my braces are removed, I only need to wear the retainer every once in a while.

False!!! Retention is forever!!! Teeth in any case can and will shift. Not wearing retainers can cause a drastic regression in the work that was done to perfect your smile and can potentially cause worse damage than before. Just like things change on the outside as we age, things change with your teeth as well; that is why it is important to maintain a consistent schedule with your retainer.