There’s no shortage of myths about orthodontic treatment. In fact, you may have heard a few of the myths in this blog post from friends, co-workers, and even family.

The good news is that our dentists are here to set the record straight. That way, you have the facts you need to make an informed decision for your smile.

Here are the top 5 most common myths about orthodontic treatment.

1. It’ll take too long to straighten teeth.

Not so fast! It may have taken your neighbor’s kid all of middle and high school to straighten their teeth. But that doesn’t mean the same will be true for you.

First of all, it’s never too late to get adult braces. Also, you won’t know until you sit down with one of our dentists how long your treatment will take.

Each patient is different.

If you choose Invisalign®, be sure to wear your clear aligners 20 to 22 hours a day to achieve the results you want. Otherwise, your teeth won’t move according to schedule and your progress will fall behind.

No matter what treatment you choose, we’ll ensure that your teeth move in a way that’s safe and precise.

2. Only metal braces can straighten teeth.

Would you feel self-conscious about metal braces? If so, ask our dentists if you’re a candidate for Invisalign. These clear aligners allow you to straighten teeth without metal brackets and wires. Instead, the aligners fit over your teeth and exert pressure on them to move little by little.

3. Adults can’t straighten teeth.

It’s never too late to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health. Many adults prefer Invisalign because the clear aligners are discreet. Most people can’t tell you’re wearing Invisalign unless they’re standing close. This is perfect if you don’t want to ruin your professional appearance at work.

4. Braces only change your appearance.

Braces affect so much more than your appearance (although that’s nice too). Teeth braces also affect your oral health.

Crowded teeth are difficult to floss. If you neglect flossing altogether, dental plaque builds up on the surface of your teeth. Plaque is an invisible film of bacteria that increases your risk for gum disease and tooth decay.

Dental braces can straighten teeth so you can practice better oral hygiene.

5. It’s safe to straighten teeth on my own.

The most dangerous myth about orthodontics is that you can safely move teeth on your own. The truth is that using a DIY kit off the internet could cause permanent damage to your tooth roots.

The safest way to move teeth is to see one of our dentists for treatment. We’ll make sure your teeth are safely moved into optimal alignment so you can smile with confidence.

Request an Appointment with GR Family Dental

Our dentists in Grand Rapids, MI, want to help you achieve your smile goals. To schedule an orthodontic consultation, please feel free to call GR Family Dental at (616) 455-3020. We hope we hear from you soon!

This blog post has been updated.