When most people think about orthodontics, they tend to think of teenagers wearing braces. This persistent stereotype isn’t quite true, though! The truth is that orthodontic treatment can have many benefits for patients of all ages – including adults! More adults than ever are using orthodontics to straighten their teeth and improve their oral health. In fact, about 1 in every 5 current orthodontic patients is over the age of 18, and that number is growing every single day. Keep reading below as we’re debunking common myths about braces for adults (and giving you a look at why they’re the most popular orthodontic treatment, year after year!)
If you’ve spent years of your adult life feeling unhappy with the way your teeth look or function, now is the perfect time to take a look at how Rhoads Orthodontics can help!
We offer a variety of innovative treatment options to correct orthodontic issues ranging from mild to severe, including traditional braces. Although today’s braces are more comfortable and efficient than ever, some patients are still on the fence about them. If you find yourself reluctant to consider braces to achieve a healthier smile, it’s probably because of what you think you know about them. Keep reading as we’re debunking common myths about braces for adults and how Rhoads Orthodontics can help you get your dream smile!
Myth #1: Braces are just for children and teens
One of the most common myths about braces for adults is that braces are designed just for children and teens. While we do see a large number of kids and teens here at Rhoads Orthodontics, you’re never too old to take advantage of all the benefits treatment has to offer! We often begin to understand the many ways our oral health is related to our total body health as we get older, which can lead many of us to take better care of our teeth and gums. For some, this may include seeking dental care or orthodontic treatment.
Many adults deal with crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, or other issues that they’ve waited years to correct. Others are simply looking to improve their smile cosmetically. Whatever your reason for seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, healthier, more confident smile!
Myth #2: Braces will make you stand out
This is another persistent myth that holds many adults back from getting braces. When you’ve already been feeling a bit self-conscious about your teeth, the last thing you want is to draw more attention to them. You may believe that’s just what will happen when you get braces, but thanks to modern orthodontic technology, there are plenty of subtle treatments available to adult patients! Dr. Stephanie Rhoads offers the following options for a complete smile makeover:
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces are our most popular and efficient treatment, year after year. Typically made of high-quality stainless steel, modern metal braces are much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with lots 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 especially useful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic or tooth-colored braces, these function the same way metal braces do. However, they provide patients with the added benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Both of these options blend in well with your natural smile. Clear braces are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but much more discreet. 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.
Clear aligners
Clear aligner therapy with Invisalign consists of a series of removable plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth and gently move them where they need to go overtime. These customized aligners are switched out for the next in the series every 1-2 weeks to account for the movement of your teeth. The Invisalign clear aligner system offers patients a bit more freedom and flexibility that isn’t available with fixed braces since the aligners can be removed when eating or drinking. It also makes maintaining an oral hygiene routine much simpler since patients brush and floss as they normally would.
Myth #3: Braces will be painful
Modern orthodontic treatment moves your teeth far more gently and effectively than it has in the past, and braces, in general, are more comfortable than they’ve ever been. While you may occasionally experience some slight discomfort as outlined below, these minor issues are usually easily resolved with a little patience and preparation!
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 affected 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 a 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 bracket
Loose brackets are a problem we need to know about as soon as possible. Once you let us know what’s happening, Dr. Rhoads will be able to decide what your next steps 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 in with Dr. Rhoads first!
Myth #4: Braces are too expensive
Orthodontic treatment of any kind is certainly an investment of your time and finances. However, the benefits will last a lifetime! There are no hidden costs or unwelcome surprises here at Rhoads Orthodontics. During your initial consultation, we’ll outline everything included in your customized treatment plan. These treatment plans contain everything needed for beautiful, long-lasting results, including:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
- and an oral hygiene starter pack, too!
Our treatment fees are based on the skill of our expert team, the quality of the products we use, and the world-class service we provide. Dr. Rhoads has many years of experience creating healthy smiles for patients of all ages throughout Cranberry Township and the surrounding communities. She appreciates what a big investment treatment is for patients, and our dedicated team will work with your budget to make sure you get a confident smile you love! We offer convenient payment plans, and we also accept most major credit cards and insurance plans. We’ll even be happy to file your insurance claims for you to ensure a stress-free experience from start to finish!
Get a beautiful smile with braces by Rhoads Orthodontics
Debunking common myths about braces for adults helps to show that braces can be a wonderful option for straightening your teeth and improving your oral health, whether you’re 15 or 50. Choosing experienced orthodontists like Dr. Stephanie Rhoads will guarantee you only receive the best treatment for your one-of-a-kind smile. Our expert team provides patients with an orthodontic experience that’s rewarding and stress-free from your first appointment to your last!
Don’t let any common myths about braces keep you from a beautiful, healthy smile. If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation with Rhoads Orthodontics.