braces

Debunking Common Myths About Braces

Posted on August 9, 2021

braces

Braces are not just for kids anymore. In fact, more adults than ever before are turning to orthodontics to improve their oral health and aesthetics. But with so many different options out there, it can be hard to know which type of braces is best for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most common myths about braces that people believe to give you the straight up FACTS!

Myth #1: I Don’t Need Braces if My Teeth Aren’t ‘Bad Enough’ Yet

While many people put off getting braces because of the perceived time and expense, this isn’t the healthiest approach. A good orthodontist will look beyond your teeth and assess how the jaw is developing to make sure that everything is moving in the right direction. Orthodontic experts recommend an evaluation by age 7, but it should be done sooner if you begin showing signs of early crowding. Introducing straightening into your treatment plan much earlier can help prevent more serious orthodontic issues from occurring later in life, and actually SAVE you lots of time, money, and stress in the long run!

Myth #2: Braces Are Too Expensive for Me to Afford

While the initial cost of braces can seem prohibitive, there are ways to cut costs, and we here at Lineberger Orthodontics are fully committed to creating flexible payment plans that align with your budget and needs. Talk to your orthodontist about financing options and other means that can help you perfect your smile for a price that works with your wallet.

Myth #3: I Would Look “Too Weird: in Braces

You may worry that braces will change your appearance for the worse, but with today’s technology, that is the OPPOSITE of true! Clear braces are often only barely visible when you smile, and your orthodontist can even make them less noticeable by opting for clear ceramic brackets. If you want more inconspicuous-looking braces, there are other options like Invisalign! All in all, there are orthodontic treatment options available that work for everyone’s particular vibe.

Myth #4: My Insurance Won’t Cover Treatment

Insurance companies are covering orthodontic treatment more than ever before, and it is more than likely that at least a large chunk of your orthodontic treatment would be covered by your dental insurance provider! During your complimentary initial consult, we will review with you what is covered by your insurance policy, and you may find that braces are a lot cheaper than you thought they would be. One of our awesome team members can easily walk you through exactly what is and isn’t covered by your plan at your 100% FREE initial Smile Consult!

Myth #5: Braces Are Too Much of a Commitment

You may believe that the amount of time you have to wear your braces or Invisalign aligners – usually two years – is too long for you. When it comes down to it, however, orthodontic treatment is about improving your smile and health. What’s two years in the grand scheme of things when it results in an INCREDIBLE smile that lasts a lifetime?! Come on, now- we’ve had bad perms that lasted longer than that! (What can we say? It was the ‘80’s.)

Myth #6: Braces Are Only for Teenagers, Not Adults

While it is accurate that orthodontic treatment is most popular among teens due to it being the most common time folks seek orthodontic treatment, adults continue to account for an ever-growing number of orthodontic patients. Statistics indicate that a third of orthodontic patients are adults, and it’s never too late to put your best foot (and smile) forward in this world! After all, countless studies showcase the correlation between a better smile and increased confidence, self-esteem, and even professional success!

Myth #7: I’ll Have to Majorly Change My Diet Because of Braces

While it may be true that some foods can be damaging to the wires and brackets attached to your teeth (we’re lookin’ at you, Jolly Ranchers), the majority of foods can still be enjoyed within reason with braces! We’ll give you the full rundown of what’s a “no-no” during treatment at your appointment, but fear not- it’s not as extensive as you might think, and it’s only for a lil while!

Myth #8: Braces Will Make Me Look Different From Everyone Else

Braces get a bad rap (we again have the ‘80’s to thank for this- Sixteen Candles, anyone?), but the fact of the matter is that the braces of 2021 ain’t your mama’s braces- they are slicker, faster, shinier, and more tricked out than ever before! We can work with you to determine the type of braces that work best for you, but rest assured that the path to your best smile will be a heckuva lot cooler than you expect! (Especially at LINEBERGER ORTHODONTICS!)

To learn more about the orthodontic options that will work best for you, give us a call! We offer a full range of orthodontic treatments right here in Charlotte, NC, including traditional metal braces, colored braces, Invisalign, and more. We can’t wait to meet you!