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When most people think of orthodontics, they immediately picture children or teenagers getting braces to improve the appearance of crooked teeth. In fact, orthodontists regularly treat patients of all ages, and they provide a wide range of services. Read on to find out about some of the most pervasive myths about Orthodontics in Idaho Falls and get the facts.
Myth #1: Orthodontists Only Provide Cosmetic Treatment
While most people do look better with straight teeth, braces and other forms of orthodontic treatments don’t have cosmetic improvements as a primary goal. The underlying goal of most orthodontic treatments is to address malocclusions and misalignments, improving patients’ bite patterns and making it easier for them to chew, speak clearly, and maintain optimal oral health.
Myth #2: Only Kids Need Orthodontic Care
While there are some orthodontists that focus exclusively on providing paediatric services, most take patients of all ages. Adults who never had the chance to straighten their teeth, treat jaw problems, or address issues like overbites, underbites, or crossbites can, and should, schedule consultations with general orthodontists. They’ll still be able to get the help required to improve their bite patterns and the appearance of their smiles.
Myth #3: Orthodontic Care Is Unaffordable
An orthodontist’s fee schedule directly reflects the complexity of the patient’s case, so pricing varies substantially. Addressing simple problems that only require a few months of treatment is usually quite affordable, and it will cost less to correct the underlying issue than to deal with periodontal disease and tooth decay resulting from misaligned teeth. Plus, most orthodontists offer flexible payment plans.
Myth #4: Orthodontic Treatment Takes Too Long
While it’s true that orthodontic treatment necessitates careful, controlled repositioning of teeth, it doesn’t always take years to accomplish treatment goals. Of course, every case is different. People with complex tooth or jaw misalignment issues will require more extensive treatments. The best way for a new patient to get an accurate idea of how long it will take to resolve a bite problem or malocclusion is to schedule a consultation with a qualified specialist.
Myth #5: It’s Better to Get Braces from a Regular Dentist
Some general dentists offer braces or teeth aligners, so patients often assume it makes more sense to entrust these professionals with all their dental needs. In fact, orthodontists go through years of additional training to ensure that they can reposition patients’ teeth and jaws safely without doing permanent damage to their smiles. Only a licensed and accredited orthodontist can accurately assess the extent of a patient’s bite problems and recommend the best possible treatment.
Myth #6: Orthodontists Only Offer Braces
Straightening crooked teeth is just one of the valuable services provided by orthodontists. They also offer a full range of other orthodontic devices designed to treat a wide variety of jaw and tooth misalignment issues. People with overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowded teeth, or jaw issues can also benefit from seeking orthodontic care.
The Bottom Line
Don’t believe the many myths and misconceptions about orthodontic care. The best way to get an accurate idea of what to expect isn’t to turn to forums on the Internet. It’s to schedule a consultation with a qualified specialist.
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