We know orthodontics can sound daunting to parents and kids, and there’s oftentimes a lot of questions surrounding it. So this week we’re having our very own Dr. Jason answer some insightful myth or truth questions!
Myth #1: Anyone who provides braces or aligners is an orthodontist.
This is false! Most orthodontists require three years of additional training to have knowledge on how to move teeth and correct bites. Unfortunately, not everyone that’s providing braces has received that additional training. This is why it’s important to receive advice from your dental provider and be cautious of companies, like Smile Direct Club, who are trying to provide straight teeth with aligners and very little doctor interaction.
Myth #2: Orthodontics is so expensive!
Orthodontic treatment is an investment into your child’s smile! At PDAO we recognize that it’s an investment so we do our best to offer flexible financial options, like low down payments and payment plans, that can fit your family’s budget. The financial investment that you put towards your child’s orthodontic treatment is not only going to provide a beautiful, aesthetic smile, but a functional bite and a healthier mouth for the rest of their life.
Myth #3: Orthodontic treatment takes several years.
The duration that an individual receives orthodontic treatment is totally dependent on how difficult the case of their bite is. Some cases have very minor crowding issues, where others have more difficult bites to correct. When we’re discussing more comprehensive care, it could take two years or longer, but again it’s determined on a case by case basis. Our goal at the initial orthodontic appointment is to provide parents information about their child’s bite and give an estimate of how long we think it will take to correct.
Myth #4: Orthodontists only offer metal braces.
False! For years, metal braces have been the go to as far as orthodontic appliances that move and straighten teeth. However, over time, companies have developed more aesthetic appliances, like clear braces and liners, which we utilize in our practice to get the same outcome that we could have received with metal braces.
Myth #5: Orthodontic treatment is just for kids.
Not true, orthodontic treatment is for everybody! Even though PDAO is a pediatric dental practice on the orthodontic side, we do provide orthodontic care to kids, adolescents, and adults. You are never too old for a beautiful smile and a correct bite!
Myth #6: Office visits are not necessary to get straight teeth.
Some patients think that once they get their orthodontic brackets on we just have to leave them on for a long duration of time and we will receive the perfect results. However, that is not the case. We typically see our patients once every eight weeks for adjustments and to check the status of the bite. We may also evaluate if we need to have the patient start using elastics or rubber bands to achieve the optimum outcome. It’s not just putting braces and wires that magically corrects the bite. We have to see patients periodically to make sure we get the best result in the end.
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