3 Myths About Braces Debunked

The American Association of Orthodontists states that around four million Americans wear braces: a fact that makes the many myths about braces harder to believe. Here are three myths that family orthodontists have heard a million times; and reasons why they’re bunk! Please talk with your teen about these myths to ensure that they feel comfortable with their treatment later.

Braces are Painful

This myth is probably the number one concern that comes up when orthodontists meet with patients for the first time. While it is inescapable that patients may feel some discomfort due to keeping their mouth open for so long during this treatment, you won’t feel excessive pain. You shouldn’t even feel pain during the many years you have braces. If you do feel discomfort, your braces can be adjusted, and this pain should go away. Many people never feel any pain when wearing braces because their orthodontist gets it right the first time.

Braces Will Rust

This silly idea is at least understandable at its core; braces are metal, your mouth is moist; therefore, braces can rust. Braces are made of rust-resistant metal so all you need to worry about is keeping up with your everyday braces maintenance to avoid wear and tear issues, which further helps to minimize the risk of rust and other types of problems.

Braces Need Constant Adjustments

When family orthodontists adjust a person’s braces, it is because they need to be tightened to help improve their progress. Typically, adjustments occur early in your treatment because your progress may occur more quickly or slowly than expected, depending on your situation. After a few months, your braces should find their sweet spot and need very few adjustments after that. Some may never need adjustments, which is the most ideal situation for the patient.

Talk to your family orthodontists about this treatment plan to learn more about the types of braces that work best for your teen. Also, talk to your teen about this treatment to learn more about what they expect out of it. Doing so helps to make this process easier by minimizing any confusion that your teen might experience during the treatment process.