You know how important your smile is. Whether you want to look your best or have healthy teeth for years to come, braces can really make a difference. They not only straighten your teeth, but they can fix your jaw structure and make your life more comfortable.
You may have lots of questions, like “how do braces work?” and “how much do braces cost?” — and it can seem overwhelming.
Getting braces doesn’t have to be scary. With the right preparation and care, your experience can go smoothly. There are several myths about braces that can cause you to feel pretty nervous about getting them. Keep reading to learn more about the reasons you should consider getting braces and why you’ll be glad you did.
Do Braces Hurt?
The thought of slowly aligning your teeth can be scary, and you may wonder if braces cause pain.
Braces move your teeth very slowly over time with gentle pressure. Putting them on is painless, and so is getting them taken off. Though you may feel a bit of pressure immediately after they’re tightened, your braces should not cause you serious pain or discomfort.
Luckily, most pain can be avoided with the proper care. Here are some key tips for keeping your braces and mouth in tip-top shape:
- Brush your teeth after every meal, not doing this can cause cavities and other issues, which can make you more uncomfortable down the line.
- Avoid hard, crunchy foods that can potentially damage your braces — this can make them less effective and cause your treatment to last longer.
- If your braces feel a bit uncomfortable, ask your orthodontist for a bit of wax — this is used to cover any area where the wire or brackets rub against your lips and cheeks.
- If you feel any discomfort or pressure after an adjustment, over-the-counter painkillers and oral anesthetics are great remedies.
If you don’t want metal braces, you can get clear aligners like Invisalign ® that don’t include metal wire or brackets. They’re simple, clear trays that you wear for 20-22 hours a day, and they don’t rub up against your gums.
For more information on how to care for your braces, visit our blog discussing more tips >
Do Braces Look Bad?
If you don’t like the look of metal wire braces, clear aligners like Invisalign are fairly similar in price. Aligners are hardly noticeable and are removable in case of a special event — just make sure to wear them as often as needed.
Not every set of braces looks the same. You may be able to wear smaller or clear brackets, making your braces dramatically less noticeable.
Clear braces are also hardly noticeable — with no metal brackets or wires, and no yellowing, they easily blend in with your teeth and preserve your smile.
If you need metal braces, the rubber bands come in fun colors you can customize to your style. Many people actually find this look very cute and festive!
Braces don’t have to cramp your style. There are several options for an effective treatment that don’t draw attention to your mouth. You can rest easy knowing you’re doing what’s right for your smile, and most people may not even notice.
Are Braces Only for Kids?
Though you may assume only children get braces, you may be surprised to learn just how many adults opt for orthodontic treatment. It’s reported that 1 in 5 people seeking braces is over the age of 18.
There is no “right” time to get braces. It all depends on your specific situation. Though children often get braces because it’s easier to make certain adjustments, there’s no rule that says every person has to receive treatment at such a young age.
As long as your teeth and jaw are relatively healthy, you can get braces at almost any age. You’re never too old to want the perfect smile, and it’s completely normal to have braces as an adult. The benefits of braces for adults greatly outweigh potential worries.
If you’re still concerned about your appearance, remember that there are several treatment options when it comes to aligning your teeth. You may not need to get metal braces, as clear aligners are similar in cost and much less visible.
Take Your First Steps Towards Improving Your Smile
There are many myths and misconceptions about braces. But, that doesn’t mean you need to be scared about getting them. Braces can make such a huge difference in the way you feel and look, and don’t need to be uncomfortable.
Depending on the kind of braces you choose to get and what insurance you have, you may not have to pay much out of pocket. You can also choose a less noticeable style of orthopedic treatment, whether that’s something like Invisalign or clear braces.
The lifelong benefits of straightening your teeth greatly outweigh potential negatives, and you can rest easy knowing you’re investing into a future as bright as your smile.
Are you looking to take the first steps towards your new look? Learn all about braces and begin your journey to a healthy, happy smile.
Contact Premier Orthodontics today to learn more about adult braces >