You might think that braces are only for children, but the results among adults are equally remarkable. While many patients envision pain associated with orthodontic treatment, any discomfort is typically minimal and short-lived. If you’re concerned about the length of treatment, treatment time can range from 6 months to 2 years depending on your case. Others think that orthodontic care is a service provided by dentists; however, specialists receive unique training to better suit your needs. And last but not least, retainers are not to be trifled with. They play an essential role in maintaining your smile after braces. Being informed of these misconceptions may tenderize your experience, and there’s more important thought to consider as one pursues the options in orthodontic care.
Braces Are Only for Kids
So many people think that braces are for kids, but it’s a common misconception. Adult orthodontics is becoming more and more popular, and there is a good reason for it. If you have ever felt self-conscious about your smile or discomfort from misaligned teeth, you’re not alone. Many adults seek orthodontic treatment with the dream of having that confident, healthy smile always wanted.
Braces have many added advantages in adults: They can vastly improve one’s oral health by correcting problems with your bite-a problem that makes it easier to clean your teeth and reduces the risk of gum disease.
You might think it will be a headache to get braces, but now-more than ever-with clear aligners and ceramic braces, straightening your teeth no longer means an aesthetic compromise. Enjoy your freedom to smile without embarrassment about your treatment.
More importantly, however, you will derive long-term benefits from investing in your smile. Several adults testify that once their orthodontic treatment is over, they do not only feel confident in social situations but also an overall boost in well-being. Such a transformation can be very life-changing because now you are free to express yourself without any worries.
The Process is Always Painful
It is often thought that orthodontic treatment is invariably painful, which, of course, may not be the case. Many tend to dread going through that pain caused by braces or an aligner. Knowing the truth behind the process can help alleviate your concerns.
Most orthodontic treatments indeed involve temporary discomfort, especially after adjustment in braces or right after putting on aligners. At any rate, this usually remains soft and does not bother the patients for quite some time.
You may feel some pressure on your teeth because they will begin to move into the new position, but note that this pressure generally accompanies the adjustment process.
Your orthodontist too takes equal interest in ensuring limited discomfort. For this reason he will employ advanced techniques and materials. They will also advise you on soft food and over-the-counter pain relievers where needed for temporary soreness.
Setting realistic expectations of the treatment can better help you feel confident with the process.
Orthodontic Treatment Takes Forever
Besides discomfort, another common myth is that it takes forever to achieve that beautiful smile. The truth is, treatment time may vary greatly depending on the needs of each patient. Many patients, though, are often surprised by how short the journey into a beautiful smile is.
In all, most orthodontic treatments take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of your case and how closely you follow your orthodontist’s instructions.
You might be surprised to find that one of the major determining factors in how long it actually takes to achieve desired results is the patient’s commitment to treatment. In fact, following your orthodontist’s guidelines-such as wearing aligners or bands just as prescribed-can make all the difference in your treatment time.
With active participation in your care, you can help ensure that teeth move as intended.
So many people think that the treatment time will take over their lives, but with new advanced orthodontic options like clear aligners and accelerated choices, the treatment process is more productive than ever.
You can keep multiple aspects of your life going during treatment, and you can stay free while continuing to work toward your smile aspirations.
After all, the time you spend in orthodontic care is just a small part of your life.
The payoff—a confident, radiant smile—is one of the best and will last throughout your lifetime.
Only Dentists Provide Orthodontic Care
Believing that orthodontic care is provided solely by dentists will limit your options in the pursuit of a healthier smile. While general dentists play an important role in dental health, they mostly refer orthodontic cases that might be beyond their expertise to orthodontic specialists.
If you’re searching for a qualified Orthodontist Melbourne, consulting with a specialist ensures you receive focused expertise tailored to your specific alignment needs. These professionals are specialized in the alignment of teeth and jaws, bringing forth wealth in expertise and experience in that very field.
If you are considering adult orthodontics, then consulting with an orthodontic specialist will be quite beneficial. They have extra training and knowledge in various treatment options available to fit adults-from braces to aligners to retainers.
This extra focus will thus make the treatment more effective and efficient for you to get the dream smile.
You might assume that your orthodontic requirements could be dealt with by a general dentist, but not all general dentists are similarly educated in this specialty.
Additional years of education and clinical training make orthodontic specialists ready for anything from slight adjustments to complex orthodontic cases.
Myth: You Won’t Need Retainers After Your Braces
Many people view retainers as an optional accessory after one has been through the hassle of getting braces. Unfortunately, this perception often leads to significant backward steps in your journey toward a perfect smile. Immediately your braces are removed, your teeth may appear to be in a stable position and end, but this does not guarantee that they will stay that way without help. Teeth naturally want to return to their original alignment, and this is why wearing a retainer is important to maintain the results that you worked so hard for.
It provides a safety net-a support your teeth will need if they are to remain in their corrected positions. You take good care of your retainer by keeping it clean and following all instructions about how and when to wear it. The longer you wear your retainer, the more your teeth will conform to their new position. Major relapse is significantly minimized when this happens.
The time you spend in retainer care will pay long-term dividends. It is not only the investment in braces you will preserve but also the confidence a beautiful smile will afford you.
Naturally, the idea of having to wear a retainer might be a little confining; however, try to look at it as one last step to give you the freedom of a permanent smile.
Conclusion
Knowing the truths behind this orthodontic care is part of this journey towards a perfect smile. Don’t let misconceptions take you off the track; anyone can get braces, and it doesn’t need to hurt or take forever. The bottom line is, orthodontists-not just dentists-are professionals responsible for guiding you, and retainers play a crucial role in preserving your results. In embracing these realities, you’re not just investing in braces, you are making an investment that involves a lifetime of confidence-a glowing smile that’s you.
