Many people pass on orthodontic treatment that would greatly improve the confidence and oral health of themselves or their loved ones based on outdated or outright false information. In this article, Vancouver Orthodontic Specialists, PLLC will address five common myths about braces and orthodontic treatment so that you are armed with accurate information when making decisions regarding your family’s orthodontic health.
MYTH 1 I’m too old to get braces.
The truth is, you’re never too old to improve your smile and oral health. It is estimated that one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult, and many of the patients Dr. Irwin has treated right here at Vancouver Orthodontic Specialists, PLLC have been in their 40s, 50s and beyond. As long as the bone structure and periodontal environment are healthy, anyone can be a good candidate for orthodontic treatment regardless of age, so don’t let a number keep you from having the healthy, beautiful smile that you deserve.
MYTH 2 My child is too young for braces.
While many associate braces with the teenage years, there are a number of benefits of seeking early treatment for your children. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Early treatment allows the orthodontist to guide the growth and placement of the jaw and incoming permanent teeth, thereby minimizing or even eliminating the need for further treatment down the road.
MYTH 3 Braces are too painful.
While the idea of braces may conjure painful memories for some, orthodontic technology has advanced over the years as such that the pain associated with treatment is very mild and manageable for most patients. Although you might feel a slight pressure when the archwire is tied to the brackets, you should experience no actual pain when being fitted with your braces. For a few days to a week following the initial fitting and subsequent adjustments (typically done every six to eight weeks), you may feel some minor to moderate soreness as your teeth and mouth get used to your braces; however, sticking to a soft diet, using orthodontic wax, and taking OTC pain medication as necessary during these brief phases of your treatment will keep the discomfort under control.
MYTH 4 Orthodontic treatment takes too long.
Orthodontic treatment does take time; how much time varies from patient to patient and is dependent on the severity of the condition being treated. Thanks to modern technology, many patients can now be treated in just a few months, while more severe cases will still require a couple of years or more to resolve. Only your orthodontist can accurately assess the proper course and duration of treatment for your individual situation, but you can be sure that whatever time investment you make will be a very small price to pay for a healthy, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
MYTH 5 Orthodontic treatment is too expensive.
Although prices will vary depending on where you live and the type of treatment you are seeking, we here at Vancouver Orthodontic Specialists, PLLC go out of our way to make orthodontic treatment affordable for everyone in the Vancouver, WA area. From military, union and cash payment discounts, to extensive insurance coverage and interest-free payment options, you are sure to find a payment option that fits your budget.
We know that seeking orthodontic treatment is a big decision, and our hope in “busting” some of the common myths surrounding braces and orthodontics here today is that we’ve provided you with a solid foundation of factual information to base that decision upon. If you are in the local Vancouver, WA area, we encourage you to call or email us to schedule a free consultation, at which time we will address any further questions or concerns you may have and design a custom treatment plan for you based on your individual needs, goals and budget.