If you’ve heard some braces horror stories, you’re no doubt reluctant about getting braces! But you can rest assured that receiving orthodontic treatment is nothing like the urban legends you’ve heard.
Whether you’ve had a bad dental experience in the past or just simply want to understand the process of getting braces, our team at Nth Degree Orthodontics wants to ensure you have a comfortable and successful smile journey.
Let’s chat about your reasons not to get braces so we can help you overcome any fears of getting braces!
Reason #1: Don’t braces hurt?
One of the most common patient concerns is that orthodontic treatment will cause a lot of pain. While everyone’s experience with braces is different, braces shouldn’t cause you any severe discomfort or pain. And there is no twisting or wrenching your teeth until they have agreed to submit. In fact, our orthodontists use advanced orthodontic technology and techniques to apply gentle, consistent pressure to encourage your teeth into healthy alignment over time.
While that pressure might cause tender gums that ache after the first adjustment, that discomfort will be minor and dissipate quickly. If you’re experiencing any discomfort, refer to our helpful patient education videos or emergency orthodontic tips to alleviate any braces discomfort. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication, use a numbing ointment such as Orajel, or apply orthodontic wax to any irritating wires or brackets.
Reason #2: You’re scared of going to the orthodontist
You’re not alone! 50-80% of adults in the US experience dental anxiety. It’s only natural to experience anxiety in situations where you don’t understand what’s happening. If you or your child has been diagnosed with odontophobia or severe dental anxiety, please let us know when you schedule your complimentary exam. We’ll be able to provide educational materials for you and take our time to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Dental anxiety is especially prevalent in children. While orthodontic offices can be scary at first to a young child, you can help by letting us know about your child’s fears at your first visit. Our orthodontists (Dr. Nease, Dr. Thomas, Dr. Higginbotham, or Dr. Horvath) have dealt with fearful and anxious children, so they understand how to make them feel at ease. They’ll take the time to explain what will happen during their exam, get them familiar with the tools they’ll use, and explain how this information will be used to help care for their smile!
If your child is too frightened to visit the office, take some time to explore our website with them and check out our YouTube channel! They’ll be able to watch our office tours, get familiar with our orthodontists and our team, and hear some of the silly songs we like to sing about orthodontics. This will reduce their anxiety and help them feel better prepared when you both visit us in person!
Reason #3: It’s embarrassing to wear braces
Teens especially feel this is true! In fact, 41% of teens think it’s embarrassing to wear traditional braces. In the past, metal braces were your only teeth-straightening option and they were notorious for being chunky and awkward. But orthodontic technology has come a long way! We offer a few different types of braces and clear aligners so you and your teen can pick the best treatment option for you!
If your teen is still worried about wearing braces, you can explain that they have nothing to feel ashamed or embarrassed about! They’re working on bettering themselves and improving their health. You can also point out that there probably are several other classmates who will need braces too (so they won’t be alone). And it’s good to encourage them to talk to friends who already have braces! If they fear being bullied, you can tell them that it’s simple jealousy.
Reason #4: Braces can cause cavities
Anybody can develop cavities, including people who are currently in orthodontic treatment and those who have never undergone treatment. Cavities develop due to bacteria buildup on the teeth – meaning your oral hygiene habits have everything to do with cavity development.
During your orthodontic treatment, you will get food stuck in your braces or orthodontic appliance, but it’s just like getting food stuck between your teeth! Simply brush your teeth to loosen up those pesky food particles and floss to remove it.
If you’re putting off orthodontic treatment because you’re worried about cavities, think of it this way – when you have a common orthodontic problem such as overcrowding, it can put you at a greater risk for cavities and periodontal (gum) disease. Staying on top of your oral hygiene routine and trying out our care tips for life with braces.
Reason #5: Treatment takes A Long Time
Good things can take time! The same is true for orthodontic treatment. The average braces treatment can take 18-36 months, depending on your orthodontic condition and the type of braces you choose. But a year of treatment doesn’t even hold a candle to having a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!
Take the Anxiety out of getting braces with the facts!
We’re here to answer your questions! It’s important to us that you feel comfortable before, during, and after your treatment. Our friendly team will provide you with all the information you need to undergo a smooth and successful smile journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions!
If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Gaffney, Union, Duncan, West Spartanburg, or East Spartanburg, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.
