Four Myths About Orthodontics
You may be thinking that it’s time you did something about your crooked or misaligned teeth. We hear a lot of misconceptions about orthodontics and would like to set the record straight about some common myths.
You’ll have a mouth full of inconvenient metal for years.
Once upon a time, that may have been more or less true. Today, however, there are options available to you that speed up the process, are far more comfortable, and are nearly invisible. And you don’t have to give up your favorite foods. With ClearCorrect™ and Invisalign™, two of the aligners we offer, you remove the clear trays before eating, so there is no mess from sticky foods or cracked appliances from hard foods.
Crooked teeth are not a real problem.
This commonly held belief that having crooked teeth is just a cosmetic issue has caused people to forgo treatment thinking there is no reason to spend money on looks. However, that’s not the case. Crooked teeth can cause painful and expensive health issues later in life, including temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. It’s easier to get food particles stuck between crooked teeth, leading to possible tooth decay and gum disease. Taking care of misaligned or crooked teeth is a preventive issue with a good cosmetic side effect.
Your teeth will never shift again.
The sad truth is that 25 percent of braces wearers need to repeat treatment for a variety of reasons — the primary one being failure to follow through with proper aftercare. Don’t be one of those patients who throws their money and time down the drain. If retainers are required after treatment, wear them. If we give you care instructions, follow them. We aren’t trying to be mean; we want you to have the very best results that will last a lifetime.
DIY orthodontics are OK.
This should be a no-brainer — no, it is not OK. But the internet is full of do-it-yourself at-home orthodontic kits. Incorrectly straightening your teeth can be as harmful as not doing anything at all. Our trained team carefully examines your teeth beforehand and closely monitors progress during and after treatment to ensure your teeth, gums, and jaws are healthy throughout. The best solution is not the cheapest solution; it’s the solution that works well while maintaining your overall health.
Something else about orthodontics that you can take as fact: We are proud to be your Denton, Maryland-area dental solution. Contact our team to find out about the orthodontic services we offer, including the Damon Brace System, Invisalign, and ClearCorrect. Call for your consultation or appointment today!
To your healthy smile,
Dr. Holsinger and Dr. Higgins
