Most people know how often you should go to the dentist and what kind of treatment you can expect when you go. But unless you’ve had braces or know someone who has, you may have no idea what an orthodontist does or what to expect if you get orthodontic treatment. As a result, there are many myths about braces. Some of the most common myths are that braces are unaffordable and that you have to wear them for many years. Here are five of the most common myths about braces and why they are myths.
1. Braces Are Unaffordable
This is perhaps the most popular myth about braces, and unfortunately, it keeps a lot of people from receiving treatment. Obviously, there is a cost associated with getting braces, but most orthodontists want you to have a spectacular smile as much as you do, so they do everything in their power to make it cost-effective. Between possible insurance coverage for orthodontic treatment and customized payment plans, braces are most likely much more affordable than you think.
2. You Have to Wear Braces for Many Years
While this is true in some cases, it does not mean that all treatment plans will take that long. Most people who get traditional braces will wear them for 18-24 months, which is approximately two years. For less serious cases, Invisalign can be effective in as little as three to six months.
3. Once Your Braces Are Off, You’re Done
Your teeth move throughout your life and having braces doesn’t change that. To maintain the smile you achieved by wearing braces, you will most likely need to wear a retainer every night when you sleep after you get your braces off. We sometimes recommend wearing your retainer even more than that immediately after your braces are removed.
4. Anyone Who Offers Braces Is an Orthodontist
All orthodontists complete dental school before they get the additional training needed to become an orthodontist. But not all dentists have the additional education needed to be licensed as an orthodontist. So even though some dentists offer orthodontic treatment, they are not orthodontists.
5. It Doesn’t Matter What Orthodontist You Go To
There are thousands of qualified orthodontists in the U.S., including many orthodontists in Mouth Pleasant, South Carolina. But that doesn’t mean you should change orthodontists throughout your treatment in search of a better deal. Orthodontists have different methods, so sticking with one doctor throughout your treatment will give you the best results. However, if you have a bad experience with an orthodontist or feel the treatment that’s being provided is inadequate, you should definitely get a second opinion. At that point, you might consider transferring providers.
Have you enjoyed busting these orthodontic myths as much as we have? We hope so because we have more records to set straight in the upcoming weeks. In the meantime, if you’ve heard something about braces or orthodontics that you’re not sure is true, feel free to give us a call at (843) 4-BRACES and we’ll be happy to discuss it with you.
