Busting These 5 Myths About Traditional Braces

Many people picture awkward teens with mouths full of metal when they think of traditional braces. Braces have been straightening teeth and improving oral health for decades, but there are still lots of myths surrounding this popular orthodontic treatment.

As a board-certified orthodontist, Walied Touni, DDS, MSD, provides top-quality orthodontic treatment with traditional braces. Braces are time-tested and remain one of the best ways to perfect smiles, and today Dr. Touni and our team at Touni Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, California, are here to bust some of the most common myths we hear around the office.

Myth: Braces are always painful and uncomfortable

Pop culture paints traditional braces as awkward, uncomfortable appliances that keep you in pain throughout the duration of treatment. But does your mouth really ache the whole time you wear braces?

Fact: Adjusting to braces might be easier than you think

It’s normal for your mouth to feel sore for a few days each time your braces are adjusted. But you might be surprised that you forget you have braces most of the time. Braces don’t have to be painfully tight to work, and with a few lifestyle adjustments, braces can fit into your daily routine pretty easily.

Myth: Braces are only for kids and teens

Millions of Americans wear braces, and 75% of them are 18 and under. Many adolescents and teens wear braces as their mouths grow, but what are your options if you’re an adult with crooked teeth?

Fact: People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment

It’s true that most people who wear braces are adolescents and teens, but if you didn’t wear braces in your youth or your teeth have shifted, you could still benefit from orthodontic treatment. Many adults who are embarrassed by their smiles or who want better oral health find that braces are the best way to reach their goals.

Myth: Braces only straighten teeth for cosmetic reasons

Everyone from celebrities to friends on social media love to flash white, straight smiles. It’s normal to want to look your best, but is your desire for straight teeth the only reason to consider braces?

Fact: Aligned teeth are healthy teeth

Braces do straighten your teeth, but the benefits go far beyond aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth help your mouth function normally, and they’re often easier to brush and floss than teeth that are crooked and crowded.

Braces can also correct many other orthodontic issues, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites, to promote healthy jaw function.

Myth: You have to have braces if you want straight teeth

Traditional metal braces have been the go-to orthodontic treatment for decades, and having braces is often seen as a rite of passage for teens. But are braces really the best choice for everyone?

Fact: There are options to choose from for orthodontic care

There’s no denying that traditional braces can be a great option for adolescents, teens, and adults with orthodontic issues. Braces can correct a range of complex problems from crowding to gaps and everything in between.

But these days, many people have options when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Along with traditional braces, Dr. Touni offers clear aligners to straighten teeth.

Myth: You can get braces from any dentist

Chances are good that you have a general dentist you visit for routine cleanings and acute dental care. But general dentists aren’t the same as orthodontists. Your dentist may recommend orthodontic consultation, but is a general dentist’s office the best place to receive orthodontic treatment?

Fact: Board-certified orthodontists offer the best in orthodontic care

After receiving their Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMS) degree, board-certified orthodontists participate in an additional 2-3 years of training. They have extensive experience working in dentofacial orthopedics, and they can offer uniquely customized care for their patients.

Dr. Touni is a board-certified orthodontist, and he holds a master’s degree in orthodontics. He works with children, teens, and adults to give them effective treatment plans and beautiful, straight teeth.

Learn more about the benefits of braces with a consultation at Touni Orthodontics. Call our office or request an appointment online now.

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