The Importance of Early Treatment
October 25, 2021
Are you thinking about orthodontic treatment in 2022? This thought process inevitably comes with nervous feelings about braces, especially if you have heard of the treatment process’s myths and rumors. Braces will require an adjustment period, but most of the myths and rumors are unlikely to occur. Let’s take a look at the ten most common myths about braces and set the record straight about what you can expect from your journey with Dudley Smiles!
Braces have to hurt in order to work
Don’t let this myth scare you because your braces will not cause any long-term pain or discomfort. This is one of the most significant concerns we see in new patients regarding the treatment process, and fortunately, it’s completely unfounded. When you first receive braces, you may feel some discomfort, but remember that this is only temporary. Following your adjustment appointments, you may also experience soreness or irritation, but this will resolve itself after a short period of time.
Braces will severely limit what you can eat
Food restrictions are one of the most common learning curves any orthodontic patient will face. However, it is important to avoid anything crunchy or sticky while in treatment. This also includes raw veggies like carrots or apples, popcorn and candy with chewy bits, caramel or nuts. Just remember that there are plenty of other delicious foods you can enjoy, and this will only be temporary! When you see your beautiful new smile, the minor inconvenience of food restrictions will be more than worth it!
Braces will inhibit your ability to play certain instruments
This may be one of the biggest rumors surrounding orthodontic treatment, but it shouldn’t affect you or your child’s decision to move forward with braces. There will be a slight adjustment period for certain instruments, but you’ll be able to continue making music without missing any practices or performances.
Every instrument is unique, just like your smile. Brass instruments will take more getting used to as they require plates to press their lips directly onto the mouthpiece. But, woodwind instruments utilize a mouthpiece that requires indirect contact and makes it slightly easier to adjust.
Braces only work for teens
Many people associate the term “orthodontics” with a teen in a complete set of metal braces. This stereotype has come to life over the years in pop culture. However, new patients are always surprised when they learn the benefits of orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. So whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, just know that there is no age limit on achieving the stunning smile you’ve always wanted. Not only will this better your oral health, but it can also help improve your self-confidence.
The metal in your braces will set off metal detectors
This is often mentioned by our patients who travel. We all know that going through airport security is stressful enough, so you shouldn’t need to worry that your braces will set off the metal detectors! Brackets and wires are made from high-quality metals and are not the same materials that metal detectors look for. So next time you’re somewhere with a metal detector, there’s no need to word that your braces will cause a scene.
Braces straighten your teeth forever
This may be more wishful thinking than a myth! Braces are a great solution for correcting your bite and straightening your teeth, but your teeth will continue shifting throughout your life. This is why wearing a retainer regularly post-braces will help minimize that shifting and keep your newly straightened teeth in place for years to come!
Braces will take years to straighten your smile
Orthodontic patients will spend anywhere from 12-36 months in treatment, but this will vary because everyone’s smile is unique. The estimated treatment time will depend on several factors, such as the severity of the case, how your teeth respond to treatment, desired improvements, and more.
In most cases, you will see signs of improvement in a short period of time. This glimpse of your new smile will be exciting and an extra boost of encouragement as you continue the process.
The wires on your braces will require frequent changes
It’s essential to attend regular follow-up visits throughout your treatment process, and while the wires will need to be adjusted occasionally, this won’t happen every time. Your regular visits will consist of Dr. Dudley making minor adjustments and checking on the progress of teeth movement.
It’s important to give your mouth time to grow the support it needs to once your braces are removed. In the first year post-treatment, your teeth can start shifting in as little as a few days. As we mentioned before, you will need to use a retainer to apply more pressure and make sure your teeth stay in the new placement. Retainers do apply some pressure, but it’s less than what your braces did and is essential for keeping your teeth in place.
All of that to say, by wearing your retainer regularly, you will help ensure that your newly straightened teeth are where they need to be. This also allows them to heal fully post-braces and permanently settle into new positions.
Braces are only useful for straightening teeth
Braces are great at straightening your teeth, but they also help resolve other oral health issues such as misaligned jaws or teeth. These are things that can cause difficulty in everyday tasks like caring for your teeth, eating, and speaking. Our Dudley Smiles team will be able to address and correct these issues through orthodontic treatment. Braces also have other hidden benefits, including improved chewing, speech, oral health, and digestion.
Braces are the only option for straightening your teeth
In our Issaquah office, we offer a variety of effective ways to straighten and correct your smile aside from traditional braces like ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Each of these options can help fix any issues you may have and give you the smile you’ve always wanted. It is also important to remember that what works well for one patient may not be the best fit for another. When you schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dudley, he’ll be able to examine your teeth and recommend the option that will work best for your specific needs.
Find your best smile with braces by Dudley Smiles
We appreciate your trust in our expert team, as choosing braces is a big decision. Our top goal is to provide you with a personalized treatment plan and a rewarding orthodontic experience so that you can see exceptional results. Whether you are considering braces or already have an appointment, we’re here for you! Get in touch to schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Dudley or to talk through your concerns with us! Your satisfaction is as important to us as your smile.