Dispelling Common Myths about Orthodontic Treatment

Many people think they know a lot about braces and orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, that’s true; but often, patients and potential patients have gathered information from well-meaning friends or the Internet super highway. Look over the following misconceptions to get the straight truth about modern orthodontics:

Myth: No pain, no gain…
Truth: Years ago, orthodontists had to use stiff wire when placing braces, which created significant discomfort for patients. Flexible wires and other developments have made treatment much less unpleasant. Now, you don’t have to suffer to achieve the desired results.

Myth: Tighter braces = Faster treatment
Truth: Many patients mistakenly believe that tighter adjustments will speed up treatment time. Orthodontic treatment uses the right amount of force to move teeth without causing damage to bone or surrounding tissues.

Myth: To straighten my teeth, I have to wear metal braces
Truth: In the past, metal braces were the only option to get a perfect image. Advances in orthodontic have made it possible for patients to achieve gorgeous smiles with choices such as clear brackets, lingual braces, and Invisalign clear braces.

Myth: My regular dentist can handle my orthodontic treatment
Truth: If you had a problem with your heart, you would see a cardiologist. Likewise, you should visit an orthodontist if you have bite issues, crowding, or crooked teeth. Orthodontics is one of the recognized dental specialties, which means these doctors have had extra training after dental school.

Myth: Wisdom teeth are crowding my other teeth
Truth: Actually, no evidence exists to support this idea. If it were true, people who never develop wisdom teeth or those who had their wisdom teeth removed would never have crowding problems. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

Schedule a consult at our Sherman Oaks, CA orthodontic office – Mehdi Fotovat, DDS.