Here at Delplanche Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer customized care to patients of all ages in Beaverton, Lake Oswego, and the surrounding areas. That includes a variety of affordable treatment options like Invisalign clear aligners and traditional metal braces. While many patients choose Invisalign to straighten their smiles, the system isn’t a good fit for everyone. Braces can be an excellent solution for those who require a bit more control! They come with a long track record of proven success at correcting a range of issues from simple to complex, but there’s still a lot that people get wrong about them. Let’s take a closer look at some of the myths surrounding braces so we can prove them wrong!
Braces are only for kids and teens
Let’s get this one out of the way right off the bat! It’s true that tweens and teens make up a large percentage of orthodontic patients, but treatment can be beneficial at almost any age. Some problems can be easier to treat in younger patients because their jaw bones are still growing, but we can move your teeth into more desirable positions no matter how old you are. Whether you’re 7 or 70, there’s no age limit for achieving a healthier and happier smile!
Braces are painful
This is probably one of the biggest concerns potential patients have about getting braces put on. Fortunately, it falls firmly in the myth category! Today’s braces are far more comfortable and efficient than ever before and won’t cause any long-term pain. While there can be some mild discomfort when your braces are first put on, this is associated with your teeth adjusting to the appliance and will only be temporary. You may also experience some slight soreness or irritation following adjustment appointments. This is normal and will typically resolve on its own after a day or two.
Braces take too long to work
There are a lot of factors that go into determining the total treatment time, from the severity of the case to the compliance expected. Every patient responds to braces in their own way, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how long treatment will take. However, most patients will wear braces for anywhere from 12-36 months on average.
Remember that your time in braces may be longer or shorter than this. Either way, perspective is key! This part of the orthodontic process is only temporary. Nobody is in braces forever, and all of your hard work will be more than worth it once we reveal your beautiful new smile.
Braces put severe limitations on what you can eat
It’s true that food restrictions are part of having braces, and they’re often one of the biggest learning curves a patient faces during treatment. To protect your appliance and your teeth, you’ll need to avoid anything that’s crunchy or sticky throughout the treatment process. That includes some raw fruits and veggies like apples and carrots, along with popcorn, gum, and any candy that comes with caramel or nuts. This can be a bit inconvenient sometimes, but there are still plenty of delicious foods you can enjoy that are ortho-approved!
Braces can only be used to straighten the teeth
Braces are a fantastic tool for straightening crooked teeth, but they aren’t limited to that function alone. They’re also useful for improving or resolving many other orthodontic issues! Misaligned teeth and jaws can result in numerous symptoms that may make everyday tasks like eating, speaking, and caring for your teeth more difficult. Braces can address and correct many of these problems, giving you a more attractive smile while promoting better oral health overall.
Braces will give you a lifetime of straight smiles
Treatment won’t last forever, but neither will your straight smile without a little help from a custom retainer! Our teeth don’t like being moved from their original positions, so it takes an enormous amount of pressure from braces or aligners to shift them. That kind of support can’t be maintained indefinitely, however.
Once your braces are removed, your mouth will need time to grow the support that will keep the teeth in place. We do this by applying more pressure with a retainer that matches your new smile. Without it, your teeth will naturally begin to drift back to their original position. This can happen even faster than you’d think—in the first year after treatment, your teeth can start shifting in as little as a few days!
Using your retainer as instructed by Dr. Delplanche will help ensure the newly straightened teeth are where they need to be fully heal post-braces. It will also allow your teeth to permanently settle into their new positions, giving you long-lasting results you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Braces are the only option for straightening teeth
Braces are one of the best tools we have for correcting bad bites, but it’s not the only one we have available! In addition to traditional metal braces, we’re able to offer our patients Invisalign First, Invisalign Teen, and the original Invisalign clear aligner system.
Each of these options can correct a variety of issues and help you achieve a beautifully aligned smile. However, what works for one patient may not be a good fit for another. That’s why it’s important to partner with an experienced orthodontist who can provide you with a personalized treatment plan built around your specific needs and goals. When you schedule a consultation with our expert team, Dr. Delplanche will examine your teeth and recommend the option that will work best for your unique smile.
Achieve a beautiful smile with braces by Delplanche Orthodontics
We know that choosing braces is a big decision, and we appreciate the trust you have in our talented team! Our top goal is to provide every patient with exceptional care, a rewarding experience, and superior results. Whether you’re contemplating braces or already have an appointment to place them, we’re here for you. Get in touch to schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Delplanche or to talk through your concerns with us!