Debunking 3 Myths About Getting Braces As An Adult
The majority of people who get braces tend to get them during their adolescent years, such as during middle school or high school. However, it is becoming increasingly common for adults who never got braces as kids to turn to their dentists/orthodontists for this treatment later in life. After all, it's never too late to achieve the smile of your dreams. Unfortunately, there's a lot of misinformation out there regarding the process of getting braces as an adult.
By having a better idea of the truth behind these myths, you can make a better decision regarding your dental care.
Myth 1: Metal is Your Only Option
If you're not sure about getting braces because you think those cumbersome metal braces are your only option, think again. Over the past decade or so, clear braces and other less-noticeable options have become very popular. For example, some orthodontists can create clear, plastic aligners that you can wear over your teeth to straighten them over time. These are also removable, making them a great option for adults who may be self-conscious about getting braces later in life.
Myth 2: Treatment Will Take Longer
Some adults also assume that their orthodontic treatment will take longer because their teeth are more "set" or not as easily "movable" as they may have been earlier in life. This is nothing but a myth, and there is no truth to it whatsoever. So long as you receive the proper dental or orthodontic care, your teeth are not any more difficult to move when you're 50 than they would have been at age 15.
Myth 3: It's Only a Cosmetic Fix
Many adults consider braces primarily because they want to improve the appearance of their smile, but this is far from the only benefit of getting braces as an adult. Having your teeth straightened with braces can also help restore a proper, comfortable bite. This can reduce your chances of experiencing jaw pain and other problems, such as TMJ disorder, later in life. Furthermore, because straighter teeth are generally easier to clean and care for, you may also be less likely to develop gum disease or tooth decay after you have braces.
These are just a few of the most commonly perpetuated myths about getting braces as an adult. With this information in mind, along with an opinion from a trusted dentist or orthodontist, you can make the right decision for you. Contact a dental office like Accent On Dentistry - Rowena R Martir DMD for more information and assistance.
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