There are many myths and facts about braces. Although many people may think braces are unsightly and don’t want them, that isn’t necessarily true. In reality, they are part of orthodontic treatment and are considered one of the most effective ways to help straighten teeth and correct crooked smiles.

This technology has been around since the middle ages and can improve oral health. However, there are still myths surrounding this technology, and you’ve probably heard a few. Some myths include that braces are extremely painful, or you can’t play sports with them, and more. Below we busted 16 myths and facts about braces.

Myth 1: Once I Get My Braces Off, My Teeth Will Be Straight Forever

Fact: You will likely need to wear a retainer following treatment with braces to maintain your perfect smile. Additionally, if you don’t practice proper oral hygiene, your teeth can become misaligned again.

Myth 2: I’m Too Old for Braces

Fact: The idea that braces are only for kids is a myth. Adults can benefit from braces, too, especially if they want straighter teeth or relief from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) pain.

Developing good oral habits should begin early in life, and no one is ever too old for good oral health habits or straighter teeth. With so many advantages available to adults wearing braces, what do you have to lose?

Myth 3: Braces Are Extremely Painful

Fact: Although a common misconception, most people find braces are less painful than imagined. Plus, your orthodontist will take many steps to keep you comfortable during treatment.

Myth 4: Orthodontic Treatment Will Be Too Expensive

Fact: While braces are not cheap, they’re considerably less expensive than surgery or other alternatives. As technology continues to improve, the cost of braces is actually decreasing.

Myth 5: You Have to Wait Until Your Adult Teeth Come in Before Starting Treatment

Fact: In some cases, orthodontists can start treating you earlier if certain conditions exist. Children as young as seven can have braces if necessary. The first orthodontist checkup should occur before a child’s seventh birthday.

Myth 6: Traditional Braces Are My Only Option

Fact: Traditional braces are still an option, but they’re not your only option. Orthodontic retainers and Invisalign® clear aligners offer safe and comfortable alternatives for those who don’t want traditional braces.

Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth to move your teeth into place gradually. These trays need to be worn 20 to 22 hours per day to work correctly.

Myth 7: Braces Take Two or More Years for Desired Results

Fact: Today’s orthodontic technology allows faster tooth movement. Depending on your specific orthodontic treatment, you may see results within the first three months.

Be sure to ask your orthodontist how soon you can expect to see changes in position or bite alignment with their recommended treatment plan.

Myth 8: I Can’t Play Sports with Braces

Fact: While it is essential to wear a mouthguard, you can still play various sports with braces. Be sure to check with your orthodontist about having a special mouthguard to wear over your braces.

Myth 9: Braces Will Set off Metal Detectors at Airports

Fact: Since braces are made of metal, many people think they will set off security alarms when passed through airport metal detectors. Scanners are sophisticated enough to tell between harmless orthodontic wires and dangerous weapons. However, you may be subjected to scanning with a handheld device.

Myth 10: Can I Kiss with Braces?

Fact: You can kiss with braces as long as you take proper care of your teeth. You don’t have to avoid kissing completely, but it is recommended that you avoid hot, rough, or wet kisses. A simple peck on the cheek is perfectly safe. Just remember to brush your teeth after a night out on the town.

Myth 11: Braces Are Painful

Fact: This is false. If your orthodontist does a good job, you won’t even know you have them on. The discomfort comes from pressure put on your teeth and gums when they are being moved into place, but that shouldn’t last long. Ask your orthodontist for some pain medication if it gets too bad. However, most people don’t feel anything; they notice a change in their teeth after a few weeks of treatment.

Myth 12: My Family Dentist Can Straighten My Teeth

Fact: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that teens get a second opinion before going through with orthodontic treatment. Your family dentist may not be as up-to-date on current practices as an orthodontist who has completed specialized training in orthodontics and is certified by their state dental board.

Myth 13: Orthodontic Treatment Will Take Years

Fact: Many orthodontic treatments are completed in a few months, although the average treatment is 12 to 18 months. As soon as your teeth have been moved back into place, you’ll start wearing a retainer to keep them there. It can be uncomfortable for a few days but should pass quickly. The whole process is designed to be painless and even enjoyable, so there’s no reason not to get started.

Myth 14: Visiting an Orthodontist for Care Is Expensive

Fact: Different types of orthodontic care may be more or less expensive, but none of them is prohibitively expensive. Instead, orthodontists work with patients on a payment plan to make dental visits affordable for everyone.

Myth 15: Invisalign Only Works to Correct Minor Orthodontic Issues

Fact: Invisalign is an alternative to conventional braces. Many people consider getting Invisalign because they’re concerned with how a metal mouth will look. Invisalign indeed offers a more subtle solution than traditional metal braces, but it also works in more severe cases than you might expect.

Myth 16: Braces Pick up Radio Signals

Fact: The metal in braces will interfere with your car radio and cell phone reception. This is not true. Braces do not pick up radio signals such as household antennae or satellite dishes, so they can’t be used as an antenna replacement.

Myths and Facts About Braces Can Be Interesting

While orthodontic treatment is certainly not for everyone, it does have a place in medicine. Now that you’ve learned more about the myths and facts about braces and their health benefits, are you ready to invest in a smile makeover?

Schedule a free consultation with our doctors at Bracesetters today to learn more about if and when you should consider going under or above cosmetic orthodontic treatment. They’ll be able to answer all of your questions and help you determine whether or not braces are right for you.

Contact us to schedule your appointment today! But, before committing, don’t forget to use our patient reviews as an additional resource.