Exposing A Few Myths About Orthodontic Treatments
Your smile is a highly noticeable aspect of your face, and straight teeth is a critical factor for your smile. Sadly, your teeth may be misaligned, and while orthodontic treatments can be highly effective at aligning crooked teeth, some patients may overlook this option due to a belief in some common misconceptions. Learning the truth about the following orthodontic myths will allow you to make a more informed choice about your needs.
Myth: You Will Have To Wear Headgear
There are some patients who may avoid these treatments because they are under the impression that they will have to wear headgear in order to straighten their teeth. Luckily, you should be relieved to learn that you may not need to wear headgear. Typically, headgear is used to treat over and under bites, and if you do not have these issues, you will likely not need to wear headgear. For those that will need to wear this device, it can be easy to be concerned about being seen in public wearing headgear, but you should be relieved to learn that it is usually only necessary to wear this at night.
Myth: Wearing Braces Is Extremely Painful
A fear of the braces hurting can be another reason why an individual may opt to forgo this treatment. While it is true that there will be some discomfort when the braces are first applied or adjusted, this will typically fade rather quickly. After only a few days, you will likely hardly notice that you are wearing braces. If you experience a persistent pain from your braces, you should consult with your orthodontist because it may be possible for them to be loosened to relieve pressure.
Myth: Braces Are Always Extremely Noticeable
Embarrassment can be another reason for individuals opting out of orthodontic treatments. This can be especially true for those that must regularly interact with the public or speak to large groups. Luckily, it is no longer a requirement for all patients to wear highly visible metal braces. Invisalign can be an effective and discreet orthodontic treatment for a number of issues because it uses clear retainers to gradually straighten the teeth. However, this may not be a suitable option for patients that are suffering from particularly severe misalignments or issues with over or under bites. For these patients, it may be best to opt for clear braces. These braces are attached to the teeth in a similar fashion as metal braces, but they are made from a highly durable medical grade plastic. As a result, they will be less noticeable, but they can still provide effective treatment for severe orthodontic problems.