There’s a persistent image of orthodontics, and it usually involves a teen wearing traditional metal braces. Many people don’t even realize that orthodontic treatment can benefit patients of all ages, including adults. You may be surprised to learn that, in our office, about 3 out of every 10 current orthodontic patients are over the age of 18! That number continues to grow every day, so we’re debunking some of the most common myths about adult braces!
If you’ve spent years of your life feeling self-conscious about how your teeth look or function, there’s never been a better time to explore how Brodsky Orthodontics can give you a confident smile! We’re proud to offer patients a wide variety of treatment options, including miniature metal braces, lingual braces, and clear braces.
Although today’s braces are more comfortable, efficient, and affordable than ever before, many of our adult patients are still on the fence about using them to straighten their teeth. These fears are often based on common misconceptions or misinformation. If you’ve been hesitant to consider traditional braces as a treatment option, take a look below as we debunk some of the biggest myths about adult braces. We’ll also give you some insight into why they remain so popular, year after year, so keep reading to learn more!
Myth #1: Braces are just for children and teens
While it’s true that many orthodontic patients are younger, more and more adults are beginning to understand how our oral health is linked to our total body health. This often results in a desire to take better care of their teeth and gums, which may include seeking dental care or exploring orthodontic treatment.
Many adults have crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, or other issues that they’ve waited years to correct. Others would just like to improve their smile cosmetically. Whatever your reason for seeking treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, more confident smile you’ll want to share with the world!
Myth #2: Braces will make you feel even more self-conscious about your smile
When you already want to hide your smile, the last thing you want is to draw more attention to it! Many people think that’s exactly what will happen if they get braces. Fortunately, modern technology has provided us with multiple treatment options to have a complete smile makeover! At Brodsky Orthodontics, we offer the following treatments.
Miniature metal braces
Metal braces are one of our most popular and efficient treatments. Generally made of high-quality stainless steel, our miniature braces are small in width and depth, making them much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with a variety of fun colored bands to choose from if you want to show off a little personality with your smile! These braces deliver excellent results, and are particularly helpful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Inbrace lingual braces
Inbrace is the newest in orthodontic technology and we’re excited to offer it to our patients! Like traditional braces, these braces work by applying gentle yet continuous pressure on the teeth to help them slowly shift into the desired positions. However, Inbrace uses just a few robotically bent wires behind the teeth to discreetly create a beautiful custom smile.
The process for lingual braces involves taking a digital impression (scan) of the teeth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory and used to create the customized wires. This generally takes about four weeks and, once complete, allows us to cement the braces onto the back surfaces of the teeth.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic or tooth-colored braces, these function the same way metal braces do. However, they provide patients with the additional benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Both options blend in well with your natural smile. The brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but much less noticeable. When we pair them with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, they are an incredibly subtle way to straighten your smile. This makes them an especially attractive choice for our adult patients!
Myth #3: Braces will hurt
Today’s treatment methods are able to move the teeth gently and effectively, but you may occasionally experience a little discomfort as outlined below. Fortunately, these minor issues are usually easy to take care of with a little know-how.
General mouth irritation
Non-specific irritation in your cheeks, lips, or gums isn’t uncommon over the course of your treatment. Orthodontic wax is an easy way to get some relief! Make sure the bracket or wire is completely dry, then pinch off a small amount of wax and roll it into a ball. Flatten this ball and then gently, but firmly, place it over the source of irritation..
Protruding wires
Occasionally, a wire may come loose and irritate the inside of your mouth. This can be fixed with nothing more than an ordinary pencil by using the eraser end to nudge it back against the teeth until it flattens out. You can also place a piece of orthodontic wax over the wire to reduce irritation and provide extra stability.
Loose brackets
We’ll need to know about loose brackets as soon as possible so we can help you decide what the next step should be. In the meantime, however, try sliding the bracket back along the wire to the center of the tooth. Orthodontic wax placed over the bracket can also add stability.
Tenderness in your mouth or gums
You may have some slight tenderness immediately after your braces are put on, or following adjustment appointments. A salt water rinse is an excellent home remedy that can be beneficial for braces patients. To relieve soreness, simply mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, then swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds.
A warm washcloth or a warm heating pad placed on the outside of your jaw can also offer you some relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another useful remedy, just be sure to check with one of our doctors first!
Myth #4: Braces are too expensive
Orthodontic treatment of any kind is an investment of your time and finances, but the benefits can last you a lifetime! At Brodsky Orthodontics, you never have to worry about any hidden costs or unexpected fees. During your free consultation with us, we’ll outline everything included in your treatment plan, such as:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
Our treatment fees reflect the decades of experience our doctors have, their skillful technique, and the innovative technology we use to achieve superior results that last. We know orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment for your family so we’ll work with you to find a payment option to fit your budget. We offer the following financial options:
- Interest-free monthly payments
- Flexible payment plans (including no initial payment if necessary)
- Courtesy discount (6%) for paying in full
- Payment by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and CareCredit
- Automatic electronic monthly debit of bank accounts or credit cards
If you have dental insurance that covers orthodontics, we will be happy to verify your orthodontic benefits and process your insurance forms for you.
Get the smile you’ve always wanted with braces by Brodsky Orthodontics
Whether you’re 18 or 80, braces can be an excellent option for straightening your teeth and improving your overall oral health. By choosing a team of experienced orthodontists like ours, you’ll be certain to receive only the best treatment for your unique smile!
Brodsky Orthodontics is proud to provide patients of all ages with a fun, rewarding orthodontic experience from the first appointment to the last. If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve dreamed of your whole life, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation!