Four Myths About Teeth Straightening

Straightening your teeth can have a positive effect on your appearance, but the process isn't for everyone. Below are some common misconceptions about teeth straightening.

• Orthodontics is painful

The truth is, braces are more comfortable than ever! Brackets are smaller and less noticeable than they used to be. Wires are also thinner and smoother than they were in the past. Finally, certain practices, such as Invisalign, do not use brackets or wires at all. Instead, patients wear clear aligners that fit over them like a mouth guard. Patients often forget that they are even wearing them. This allows them to avoid many of the inconveniences associated with traditional braces. For example, they do not have to worry about food getting stuck in their teeth or the brackets causing their cheeks to swell up.

Braces no longer hurt. In fact, some patients report little to no discomfort after having their braces put in. Of course, the first few days after getting braces can be a little uncomfortable. But most patients get used to the feeling within a few days and don't experience any pain.

• Straightening your teeth is too expensive

Many adults think their teeth can't be straightened due to cost. The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on many factors, including the severity of the problem and how long the treatment is prescribed. Though some teeth straightening methods can be expensive, they are affordable for most patients with the payment options offered by dental offices.

• Orthodontic treatment takes a long time

There's no reason to wait to get straighter teeth! Because your aligners are custom-made for your mouth, they work faster than traditional braces. In fact, most people complete their orthodontic treatment in less than one year with Invisalign clear aligners. And, with fewer doctor visits necessary throughout your entire treatment, there's less time taken away from school, work, or other important activities.

• Adult teeth can't be moved

It's common to think that orthodontic treatment is only for children, but almost half of all orthodontic patients are adults. Adult teeth can still be straightened in the same way that children's teeth are using braces or clear aligners. When a patient has orthodontic treatment as an adult, it's usually to correct problems caused by neglected treatment in the past or to realign the teeth after tooth damage has occurred. In fact, many adults who straighten their teeth report improvements in their smile confidence and self-esteem.

Call Dentist in Spring, TX, at Vita Dental or schedule an online appointment to learn more about orthodontic treatments.