There’s a persistent stereotype when it comes to orthodontics, and it usually includes a teenager wearing traditional metal braces. Because of this, many people don’t realize that orthodontic treatment can have many benefits for patients of all ages, including adults. You might be surprised to find out that about 1 out of every 5 current orthodontic patients is over the age of 18! As this number continues to grow, our team is debunking myths about adult braces, proving that you’re never too old to improve your smile.
If you’ve spent much of your life feeling self-conscious about the way your teeth look or function, now is the time to explore how Ollins Orthodontics can give you a healthy, confident smile! We’re proud to offer patients a variety of treatment options, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligner therapy.
While today’s braces are more comfortable and straighten teeth more efficiently than ever before, many adult patients are still not quite sure about using them to straighten their teeth. In most cases, these fears are based on misconceptions or misinformation. If you’ve been hesitant about considering braces treatment as an option to achieve a healthier smile, keep reading as we’re debunking common myths about adult braces. We’ll also take an in-depth look at how braces can benefit you and why they continue to be the most popular orthodontic treatment method, year after year!
Myth #1: Braces are just for children and teens
While it’s true that many Ollins Orthodontics patients are children and teens, more and more adults in Nutley and the surrounding areas are beginning to seek out orthodontic treatment. This is because, as we age, we often learn more about how our oral health is directly related to our overall health. As a result, many adults pursue dental or orthodontic treatment.
Many adults have crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, or other oral issues that they’ve waited years to address. Others simply want to improve the cosmetic appearance of their smile. No matter what your reason for seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, more confident smile that you’ll want to show off proudly!
Myth #2: Braces will make your smile stand out more
When you’re already feeling insecure about your smile, the very last thing you want is to make it the center of attention! Many people believe that’s exactly what will happen when they begin braces treatment. However, thanks to modern technology, there are multiple treatment options for your smile transformation! At Ollins Orthodontics, we offer the following treatments.
Metal braces
Metal braces are one of our most popular and efficient treatments. The wires and brackets are made from hypoallergenic stainless steel material. This makes them more lightweight and long-lasting than braces have ever been. They’re also customizable, with a variety of fun colored bands to choose from if you want to show off a little personality with your smile! These braces deliver excellent results and are particularly helpful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Ceramic braces
Also known as clear or tooth-colored braces, these function the same way metal braces do. However, they provide patients with the additional benefit of semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Both options blend in well with your natural smile. The brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but much less noticeable. When we pair ceramic braces with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, they are an incredibly subtle way to straighten your smile. This makes them an especially attractive choice for our adult patients!
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
The Invisalign system consists of a series of clear, removable plastic trays called aligners that fit over the teeth and gently move them into the desired positions over time. These customized aligners are replaced with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movement of your teeth. Invisalign clear aligners offer patients more freedom and flexibility that traditional braces can’t beat. Since the aligners can be removed when eating and drinking, there are NO food restrictions! Invisalign also makes maintaining an oral hygiene routine much simpler since patients brush and floss as they normally would.
Myth #3: Braces will hurt
Today’s orthodontic treatment methods are able to achieve amazing results gently and effectively. However, you may experience occasional discomfort as outlined below. Fortunately, these minor issues are pretty simple to address with a little preparation!
General mouth irritation
Non-specific irritation in your cheeks, lips, or gums over the course of your treatment isn’t uncommon. Orthodontic wax is an easy way to get some relief! Completely dry the affected bracket and wire, then pinch off a small amount of wax and roll it into a ball. Flatten this ball and then gently, but firmly, place it over the source of irritation.
Protruding wires
Every now and then a wire may come loose and irritate the inside of your mouth. This can be fixed with nothing more than an ordinary pencil by using the eraser end to nudge it back against the teeth until it flattens out. You can also place a piece of orthodontic wax over the wire to reduce irritation and provide extra stability.
Loose brackets
If you have a loose bracket, contact our office right away! Once we know all the details we’ll be able to determine what your next steps should be. In the meantime, however, try sliding the bracket back along the wire to the center of the tooth. Orthodontic wax placed over the bracket can add additional stability.
Tenderness in your mouth or gums
You may have some slight tenderness immediately after your braces are put on, or following adjustment appointments. A saltwater rinse is an excellent home remedy that can be beneficial for braces patients. To relieve soreness, simply mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, then swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds.
A warm washcloth or a warm heating pad placed on the outside of your jaw can also offer you some relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another useful remedy, just be sure to check with one of our doctors first!
Myth #4: Braces are too expensive
Orthodontic treatment of any kind is most certainly an investment of your time and finances, but the benefits can last you a lifetime! At Ollins Orthodontics, you never have to worry about any hidden costs or unexpected fees. During your FREE consultation with one of our doctors, we’ll outline everything included in your treatment plan, such as:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
Our treatment fees reflect the decades of experience our doctors have, their skillful techniques, and the innovative technology we use to achieve superior, long-lasting results. We know orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment for your family so we’ll work with you to find a payment option to fit your family’s budget. We offer the following financial options:
- Interest-free monthly payments
- Flexible payment plans (including down payments as low as $250)
- Payment by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express
If you have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits, we will be happy to file and process your insurance forms for you!
Get the smile you’ve always wanted with braces by Ollins Orthodontics
Whether you’re 18 or 80, braces can be an excellent option for achieving a straighter smile and improving your overall oral health. By choosing a team of experienced orthodontists and skilled support staff like those at Ollins Orthodontics, you can feel confident that you’re receiving only the best treatment for your unique smile!
Ollins Orthodontics is proud to provide patients of all ages a fun, rewarding, and stress-free orthodontic experience from the first appointment to the last. If you’re ready to start your journey to a healthier smile, contact our office and schedule your FREE consultation.
