Braces have a long history of successfully straightening crooked or overcrowded smiles. This tried-and-true method uses metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands to shift your teeth into their ideal placements. Although they’ve been around for a long time, there are many misconceptions about this traditional treatment. If you’ve been searching for solutions to realign your grin, you might hesitate to move forward if you’re functioning under false impressions. Continue reading to learn 3 myths about braces so that you can make a well-informed decision!
Myth #1: They Interfere with Electronics
In the past, some people reported hearing music or other radio signals through their amalgam fillings. It was discovered that the metallic alloys used for dental work could carry radio signals and music. Perhaps this is part of the reason that many people falsely assume that their traditional orthodontics will interfere with their electronic devices. It’s easy to think that if the metal in your mouth could conduct soundwaves, then it must also be able to impact more modern technology.
If you’re concerned that your mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or computer will glitch because of braces, you can set your mind at ease. They don’t carry any electrical currents or radio signals and won’t interfere with your current gadgets.
Myth #2: They Set Off Metal Detectors
Those who travel frequently may question whether they need to worry about their traditional orthodontics at the airport. Security requires that you remove metal items like watches and jewelry to avoid setting off the alarm, so it’s natural to believe that the brackets will trigger a reaction.
Fortunately, airport metal detectors are calibrated to respond to different types and higher volumes of materials than what’s present in your braces. That means you can leave this particular concern at home when you fly.
Myth #3: They’re Only Suitable for Youth
Many people get braces when they’re still in school and so there’s a perception that traditional orthodontics aren’t appropriate for adults. As a result, some older people who suffer from crooked, gapped, or overcrowded teeth, believe that they need to seek alternate solutions. However, the truth is that almost anyone needing to straighten their smile is a potential candidate for this treatment.
Your pearly whites continue to move throughout your life and can shift out of place even if you never had any issues earlier on. The consistent pressure from biting and chewing, along with other potential issues like bruxism (teeth grinding), can reposition them long after you’re fully grown. Braces are a great way to address a misaligned grin, regardless of your age.
If you’re still not sure whether traditional orthodontics are the best way to meet your dental goals, contact your dentist today for a consultation. They’ll make professional recommendations based on your current condition so that you can have a perfectly even smile!
About the Practice
At La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland, people of all ages benefit from three experts who offer a full range of services all under one roof, including traditional braces. With a pediatric dentist, an orthodontist, and oral surgery available on site, there’s no case too complicated for them to handle. They combine advanced dental technology with a welcoming environment to enhance patient comfort while increasing the accuracy of treatment results. Plus, they offer evening and weekend hours so that you can find appointments that work for your busy schedule. If you want to straighten your teeth and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (214) 227-6577.