Two young women and a young man driving in a car along the coast.
Our Blog

Common Myths About Orthodontic Services

Posted on November 30, 2020

Common Myths About Orthodontic Services

There are a lot of misconceptions and myths when it comes to orthodontic services. For instance, some people believe it’s impossible to find low-cost braces. Others believe that orthodontic services are only for improving the alignment of your teeth. In truth, there is a lot more that orthodontic services have to offer at a wide variety of price points. Every orthodontist is a dentist but only about 5% of dentists are orthodontists. Given the fact that every orthodontist is first a dentist means that every orthodontist is focused on the health of your teeth and jaw. Orthodontic services are about more than just giving you a perfectly straight smile.

Myth 1: The Only Benefit of Braces Is to Straighten Teeth

A lot of patients mistakenly believe that the only reason you would get braces is to improve your smile. It’s true that braces do improve the look of your smile but that is not all they can do. Proper placement of your teeth is good for your overall oral health.

Proper placement of your teeth also makes it easier to brush and floss. Brushing and flossing regularly keeps your gums healthy. Healthy gums and teeth mean healthy bones. In this way, braces deliver multiple health benefits.

Myth 2: Orthodontic Services Can Help a Relieve Pain In Your Jaw

In many cases, patients seek out an orthodontist because they are experiencing jaw pain. Misaligned teeth can put undue pressure on the jaw that can cause a great deal of pain. In some cases, the jaw itself is out of alignment. Braces and other orthodontic services can address the problem.

Many times the pain is not limited to the jaw. The pain can be felt in the neck, shoulders, or even present as tension headaches. An orthodontist has the specialized skill set to help get patients out of pain and provide the treatment that ensures it does not return.

Myth 3: Braces Are Only for People with Very Bad Teeth

Another common misconception is that your teeth have to be way out of alignment to benefit from a visit to the orthodontist. The fact is there are no “must meet requirements” to be eligible for orthodontic services. Additionally, you do not have to have a mouthful of teeth out of alignment to benefit from the services.

Whether you need major or minor corrections, going to the orthodontist can help. An orthodontist for all ages has the experience to manage both small issues and large problems. In many cases, orthodontic services can help prevent bigger problems from popping up.

Learn more about orthodontic treatment options and how they can help you to maintain a healthy smile and reach your smile goals by contacting Best Smiles Orthodontics.