Orthodontist Myths and Facts

At Grace & Bowman Orthodontics in Fort Walton Beach and Niceville, we like to stick to the facts.

So if you want to learn the facts about orthodontic care for you or your children, contact Grace & Bowman today to schedule an appointment.

Meanwhile, we thought the end of the year is a good time to look at some myths and facts about orthodontic care. Here they are. And Happy Holidays!

Myth: Orthodontists only handle complex cases.

Fact: Orthodontists are doctors who are qualified to treat complex and simple cases. Each case is different and so is each patient. We treat each patient as the individual he/she is.

Myth: Some dentists claim they can straighten and align teeth just as an orthodontist does.

Fact: Orthodontists are uniquely trained and qualified to straighten teeth. That’s due to the years of additional education and training they receive. Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment. They keep abreast of the latest technologies and treatments. This means orthodontic patients get the best care possible.

Myth: Braces are for children and teens only.

Fact: More and more adults who want to straighten their teeth and improve their appearance and self-confidence are getting braces. It is simply not true that you cannot get braces once you have become an adult. About one in five people who go for orthodontic treatments are adults. And new technology and techniques have made getting braces as an adult easier than ever, with treatments that are so subtle that other people may not even realize you are wearing braces.

Myth: Giant magnets can pull anyone with braces towards the magnet!

Fact: Of course not! Braces today are often made of non-magnetic material.

Myth: Braces cause patients extreme pain and treatment drags on for years and years.

Fact: Most patients easily adjust to life with braces and live normal and active lives. How long you wear braces depends on your specific condition, but it’s temporary. Some patients can have their braces removed just months after they receive them.

Myth: Braces make you unattractive, draw unwanted attention and cause you embarrassment.

Fact: New advances in the use of clear ceramics is changing orthodontics and helping patients be more comfortable about wearing braces. Some braces today are just about invisible. And some types of braces go on the inside of teeth, so they cannot be seen from the front.

Myth: Dentists can be members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

Fact: Only certified orthodontists can be members of this professional organization.

Myth: Getting your teeth straightened is only done for aesthetic reasons and to improve your appearance.

Fact: Orthodontic treatment does improve your appearance and straightens your teeth. But it also improves your dental and overall health, and your quality of life, for years to come.

We hope you enjoyed this myth-busting blog.

And again, from all of us at Grace & Bowman Orthodontics to you and your family, Happy Holidays! We hope to see you soon!

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