8 Myths About Braces
Many myths exist around braces, and surely you’ve heard a few. Whether you currently have braces, you’re done with treatment and wearing your retainer, or you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you’ve probably heard some myths: lightning can strike your braces, braces can pick up a radio signal, and braces won’t make it through airport security.
We’re here to bust these myths! We don’t want you to fear your orthodontic treatment, so we’re always available to inform you all about braces.
Here are 8 myths busted by braces facts!
Myth #1: Braces and retainers set off metal detectors.
Many people wonder, “do retainers set off metal detectors,” or, “do braces set off metal detectors?” The answer is no! Braces and retainers are of a lightweight composition that does not trigger a metal detector. These machines are scanning for metals that are denser, thicker, and of a different material. So, you’re cleared for flying with braces!
Myth #2: Braces wires rust.
Can you imagine your braces rusting? How terrifying! Luckily, this is a myth. Your braces will not rust as long as you visit a professional for your orthodontic treatment. Metal braces are made of stainless steel and similar non-corrosive materials that will not rust.
Myth #3: If my teeth are already straight, I won’t benefit from braces.
This is a common myth. Many people believe braces serve a purely cosmetic purpose, but braces can fix a variety of orthodontic conditions. Conditions like crowded teeth, gapped teeth, overbites, underbites, open bites, and cross bites are treatable with braces.
The next time you consider, “is orthodontics worth it”, the answer is absolutely! Braces can improve your quality of life from your self esteem, to your quality of sleep, and your ease of breathing.
Myth #4: Once my braces are removed, my teeth will remain straight.
Although it would be nice if the results of your treatment lasted a lifetime, you’re still responsible for maintaining your condition once your braces are removed. In fact, the retention phase (when you’re wearing your retainer) of your treatment is arguably the most important stage.
For a minimum of 6 months after your braces are removed, you’re required to wear your retainers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to hold your teeth in place until they stabilize. After that, we recommend NIGHT TIME FOR A LIFETIME retainer wear to insure your teeth stay straight! If you choose not to wear your retainer, it’s possible that we’ll be seeing you again for another treatment.
Myth #5: Braces are expensive.
Braces are not as expensive as you may think. At Nease & Higginbotham Orthodontics, it’s our mission to provide you with affordable, high-quality treatments that fit into your budget.
We’re proud to offer you affordable braces in East Spartanburg, West Spartanburg, Duncan, Gaffney and Union, South Carolina! With a variety of payment plans, we have an option to meet your needs. Our team works with you to create a financial plan that suits your situation, and we file your dental insurance claims for you!
Myth #6: You can get struck by lightning with braces.
We are happy to inform you that you do not have a greater chance of being struck by lightning while you wear braces. Your braces are not lightning rods! Your chances of getting struck by lightning are 1 in 700,000, with or without your orthodontic treatment.
Myth #7: Traditional, metal braces is the only form of braces.
Not the case! Everyone’s condition, lifestyle, and preference of orthodontic treatment is different. We embrace our patients’ differences by offering different types of braces, including Invisalign® and Damon™ braces.
When you schedule your consultation with us, we’ll help you to determine which treatment is best for you!
Myth #8: Braces are only for teens.
Not quite! See Myth #6 for a list of the different types of braces we offer. We suit the needs of many adults who require orthodontic treatment. Adults who prefer a practically-invisible form of braces often choose Invisalign or Damon braces.
No matter what your day holds (a sports game, a graduation ceremony, or a job interview) we offer a form of braces to accommodate your preferences!
If you still have any lingering fears about braces or orthodontics, we want to hear them! When you schedule your consultation with us, we will provide you with everything you need to know about braces. Treatment with us isn’t scary; it’s fun and exciting! The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can alleviate any outstanding fears. Once you start your treatment, you’re one step closer to leaving our office with a beautiful, confident smile!
