If you’re ill, you visit the doctor. If you need an eye test, you visit the optician, and if need a hearing appointment, you head to the audiologist. It’s also common knowledge that if you have a problem with your teeth, you visit the dentist – everyone knows what a dentist does. That said, there are still many misconceptions surrounding the work of orthodontists.
Orthodontia is a special type of dentistry that handles the diagnosis, prevention and correction of dispositional teeth and jaws. And because there are numerous myths surrounding orthodontic procedures, we’ve decided to debunk them for you.
Office visits are not necessary to get straight teeth
Generally, if you’re not visiting a dental practice; your teeth aren’t being monitored, and this can lead to negligence. The health of your gums, jaws and teeth needs to be monitored during any course of treatment, and a qualified orthodontist should do this. However, modern technology means patients can now extend intervals between appointments to as long as ten weeks – news that should enhance your smile a little.
Orthodontic treatment takes several years
Admittedly, orthodontic treatment does require careful, controlled movements of the teeth to ensure that they are moving into proper positions. However, orthodontists have the necessary training to deliver optimal results in the shortest amount of time. Even if the timeframe is a little longer than desired, it’s important to stick with your orthodontist as someone is who is bereft of training or the relevant qualifications may cause damage that is irreversible.
Orthodontic treatment is purely cosmetic
An improved smile may be the most obvious result of orthodontic treatment, but there is so much more than meets the eye. When the teeth and jaws align, this leads to improved function; biting, chewing, laughing, speaking, you name it. Orthodontic procedures really are a dual treatment in this regard!
The smile is the outward sign of good oral health, and this sets the stage for overall well-being. Orthodontists play a larger role in healthcare than many anticipate.
Orthodontists are limited to metal braces
Orthodontists spend a long time studying and training in the movement of teeth. This makes them expertly qualified to use all the tools available to provide the utmost of care for patients. And while this does include metal braces, it’s certainly not limited to metal braces. Generally, they are trained in a full range of other appliances that can be fixed or removed, with invisible options also available.
Crooked teeth are an aesthetic issue
Sometimes, this may be the case but crooked teeth being purely an aesthetic issue is perhaps the biggest orthodontic myth there is. Because of this myth, and the investment braces can often be, many patients refuse treatment for crooked teeth. Unfortunately, with crooked teeth, it is far easier for food particles and bacteria to become stuck between them – a situation which, over time, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, then head to your nearest clinic today. Whether it’s orthodontics in London, or wherever else in the country, getting treatment started as soon as possible will lead you to that smile you have been lusting after.
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