Researching orthodontic treatment can give you a lot of great information, but sometimes your Google search may lead you astray. When it comes to finding information about braces, there are a lot of myths out there! That’s why your team at Orthodontics of South Miami is here to clear the air around braces and help you sort the facts from fiction. Let’s get started!
#1: Orthodontic treatment takes too long.
Fact: You could be done with treatment in as little as 6 months.
Your treatment time depends totally on the treatment option you choose, your orthodontic condition, and your response to treatment. 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. In fact, some patients only require six months of treatment! Typically, however, patients can expect their braces to last between 12-36 months, and most cases are on the shorter side of this range.
The best news of all is that no matter the duration of your treatment plan, you will begin to see improvements relatively quickly! Now, what could be more satisfying than watching your smile realign in the mirror?
#2: You can get braces from your dentist.
Fact: Only a trained orthodontist should straighten your teeth.
Orthodontists are specialists in their field, and just like in any other area of medicine, you want the person rearranging your teeth to be an expert at what they do. While dentists do an amazing job taking care of our teeth by keeping them clean and healthy, orthodontists are specifically trained to shift your smile in gear.
Your dentist will still be included in the process. The Orthodontics of South Miami team prides itself on our dedication to total oral health by communicating with our referring dentists regarding our mutual patients. You can view us as a team working together for your smile!
#3: Treatment is too expensive.
Fact: Payment plans make braces an affordable reality.
Just like your treatment time, your treatment cost depends on your unique needs. Fortunately, at Orthodontics of South Miami, we do everything we can to make our treatment affordable because we’d love the opportunity to serve you and your family.
Our competitive pricing and flexible payment options allow us to work with your budget to create a customized payment plan so that orthodontic treatment is well within your means. We accept a wide range of insurance plans and even offer a COMPLIMENTARY consultation so that you can get started with your smile journey on the right foot.
#4: No one likes the look of braces.
Fact: Modern braces are much more aesthetically pleasing.
Although many people view braces as a cosmetic treatment, one of the most common fears patients have about getting braces is that the appliances used will make your smile unattractive while you are waiting for the big reveal at the end. Fortunately, braces have come a long way in recent years! Not only do brackets and wires have smaller, less obstructive designs than they used to, but our team at Orthodontics of South Miami also offers clear ceramic and lingual braces as well.
#5: Braces hurt.
Fact: Modern braces are much more comfortable.
Over the years, advancements in orthodontic procedures have allowed us to make the process of straightening your teeth much more comfortable than in the past. Although you may experience some slight soreness or irritation following each appointment, this feeling is only temporary! Dr. Ross can recommend a few things to help relieve this discomfort (including orthodontic wax, medication, or a warm compress), but be sure to ask your orthodontic team about other ways to reduce soreness. Most of all, rest easy knowing that braces do not cause long-term or excessive pain.
#6: Braces are only for teens.
Fact: Braces are designed to work for all age groups.
One of the biggest braces myths of all is that braces are made only for middle school or high school kids, which makes us sure that the success of adult braces is the world’s best-kept secret! We want to share that secret with you: adult braces are not only practical, but they are far more common than most people think! In fact, about 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are over the age of 18!
#7: The only benefit of braces is a straight smile.
Fact: Braces have many more benefits than just aesthetics.
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. Like a domino effect, the health of your teeth often impacts your overall health, and 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.
#8: Braces will keep me from playing my favorite sport or instrument.
Fact: As long as you stay safe, you don’t have to give up sports for 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! There is usually 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.
#9: Once I’m done with treatment, my smile will last forever.
Fact: Your smile will only last if you wear your retainer as instructed.
Wearing your retainer is just as important for your straight smile as wearing braces. Without using this appliance regularly, your teeth may begin to shift just days after your braces are removed! Dr. Ross recommends wearing your retainer daily and keeping up with follow-up visits to maintain your results.
#10: Braces are your only treatment option.
Fact: We offer four unique treatment options.
Each individual has their own set of needs and desired outcomes when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Luckily, there are options to suit them all! While the traditional wire-and-bracket braces are usually the first that come to mind, Dr. Ross also offers Invisalign clear aligners that work to effectively reach your smile goals. Be sure to ask about your treatment options when you join us for your free consultation.
Creating Smiles in South Miami
Braces are a huge investment in your smile, and your smile is a huge investment in your confidence! If you’re looking to take the next step towards a straight smile, the team at Orthodontics of South Miami is here to help. Check out our Instagram and schedule your free consultation with Dr. Ross today!