When you come to Charleston Orthodontic Specialists for your free consultation, we’ll fill you in on some important information about your orthodontic treatment, from caring for your braces to the different treatment options available.. However, there are plenty of things you certainly won’t hear us say. Here are a few of those things.
“Your Teeth Look Too Straight for Braces”
Don’t get us wrong here, we also aren’t about to insult your teeth. However, if your teeth are already relatively straight, there are still plenty of reasons to get orthodontic treatment. Beyond the cosmetic benefits of having straighter teeth, orthodontic treatment improves overall oral health and comfort. By fixing crowding and alignment, you will avoid plaque buildup and tooth decay, leading to fewer cavities. You’ll also likely bite down more comfortably, eat and speak more easily, and if you experience jaw joint pain, it may even reduce it.
“Aren’t You a Little Too Old for Braces?”
While it is true that the best time of life to get braces is typically during middle school or high school, you shouldn’t shy away from getting orthodontic treatment if you’re an adult. As mentioned before, the benefits of getting braces extend far beyond the cosmetic, and you can optimize your oral health by fixing issues with your bite and overall alignment. Plus, it’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted!
“Have You Considered Mail-Order Braces?”
While the most obvious reason you’d never hear us say this is that we’d lose your business, you can trust us when we say you should steer clear from these types of “DIY” treatments. The very fact that these types of treatments promise you can complete orthodontic treatment on your own should set off alarms. Without any supervision from an orthodontist or the proper x-rays, and the fact that your treatment is based on impressions you take on your own, these digital braces can potentially cause irreversible damage to your teeth.
“You Won’t Need to Go to the Dentist While You Have Braces”
You should definitely go to the dentist while you have braces! Yes, your orthodontist has gone through dental school and is happy to keep in communication with your dentist while you have braces. But orthodontists in general are focused on straightening your teeth and do not provide the routine cleanings needed to keep your teeth healthy. Going through orthodontic treatment can increase your risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay, so you should visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
“Now That Your Braces are Off, We’re All Done!”
We’ll celebrate the fact that you’ve successfully completed your treatment when your braces are removed, but the work won’t be quite over. You will still need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from moving and starting to become crooked again. While it may seem like a bit anticlimactic to get your braces off and still have to wear something on your teeth, it will be well worth it to maintain your new smile. Most often, retainers are eventually just worn at night while sleeping.
Schedule your free consultation with us here at Charleston Orthodontic Specialists today!