Braces have attracted their fair share of myths and misconceptions over the years—many of which may discourage people from experiencing their perfect smile.
We’re here to set the record straight as we discuss and debunk some of the most common myths and reveal the truth about braces, so you can transform your smile with confidence.
What are braces made of?
Braces are made of high-grade metal alloys, including metals and nonmetals. They can also be made out of high-quality ceramic materials. It just depends!
There are many different options an orthodontist can use for straightening teeth with braces. At Nth Degree Orthodontics, we choose advanced Damon braces, because they provide increased comfort and speed while straightening your teeth!
We offer metal Damon braces and clear Damon braces for a more discreet appearance.
Myth #1 Will My Braces Set Off A Metal Detector?
The short answer to whether braces will set off a metal detector is fortunately no! Braces need to be lightweight and comfortable for you to wear, so the metal content is kept to a minimum. You’re all cleared for TSA!
Airport metal detectors are calibrated to detect much higher volumes of metal than what is present in your braces. If braces set off airport metal detectors, then so would every pant’s zipper and belt buckle. Security personnel wouldn’t be able to keep up!
Plus, treatments like Invisalign and Spark clear aligners do not contain any metal, so they are completely invisible to metal detectors.
Myth #2 Can braces pick up radio signals?
There have been stories of people reporting that they could hear radio broadcasts in their heads after getting a filling or a crown. The Mythbusters even did a segment on the myth based on Lucille Ball’s report of hearing mysterious radio signals after visiting a dentist!
Surprisingly, they determined that it might be possible to receive radio signals through gold and amalgam fillings, but couldn’t produce the same effect with braces (Mythbusters).
This is one of the more harmless myths about braces, because who wouldn’t want a radio built into their smile?! Having all of your favorite songs at the touch of a bracket? Sounds pretty convenient.
Although your rubber band hooks may resemble antennas slightly, the only way you’ll blare music from your mouth is if you belt it out yourself.
Myth #3 Braces can rust.
Orthodontic braces are made from the highest quality metal alloys and other non-corrosive materials. Under normal conditions, there is nothing they will come in contact with that would cause rusty braces.
All braces on the market today are made to strict regulatory requirements and need to pass stringent tests before consumers can access them as treatments.
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—like us!
Swim to your heart’s content and take all the showers you want! You don’t have to worry about your orthodontic treatment.
Myth #4 I’m an adult; it’s too late for me to get braces.
The truth about braces is that it’s never too late to start loving your smile. It’s true that orthodontic treatment can be more efficient on younger patients, because their teeth and jaw bones are still developing. With early orthodontic treatment, braces can work alongside your child’s natural growth to prevent more severe problems from developing in the future.
Orthodontic treatment is still effective for adults, though! Whichever age you are when you decide to get the smile of your dreams is the perfect age to begin treatment.
Myth #5 Braces treatment takes forever.
It’s true that your orthodontic treatment may take some time to complete. Treatment can take as little as 6 months for simple issues, but may take up to 3 years for more severe problems. But think about how many years you have left! No matter how long your treatment takes, the resulting smile is worth the decades of confidence you’ll experience after treatment. Our doctors always strive to keep your treatment as short as possible. In fact, that’s one of their main focuses when developing your individualized treatment plan!
A beautiful smile is more than straight teeth, too. Healthy teeth and a healthy jaw bone alignment can improve your sleep quality, breathing capability, chewing functionality, and your self esteem. Healthy smiles are truly priceless and timeless!
Braces are more affordable than you might think
You may be surprised at how affordable orthodontic treatment can be! We offer a number of flexible payment plans to help you cover the cost of treatment.
Have questions about the truth behind braces?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! We love to hear from you. We’re here to guide you through your treatment process, from your very first visit, to your last appointment.
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.
