There are literally millions of adults in the U.S. right now who would love to straighten their teeth. They’re tired of hiding their crooked teeth or worrying about others noticing gaps, plus many experience daily pain due to bite problems. So, what stops them from seeking treatment? Often, it’s one of the 4 myths below, which your orthodontist in Powell is going to bust right now! No matter your age or situation, a straighter, more beautiful smile is much closer than you might think!
Myth #1: I’m too old to have my teeth straightened. Treatment won’t actually work.
Fact: Today, about 25% of orthodontic patients are 18 and over. The reason children are encouraged to undergo orthodontics is because their growing jaws can be more easily adjusted by treatment, but this doesn’t make it impossible for adults. While orthodontics usually requires more time for adults, it can still deliver perfectly aligned teeth.
Myth #2: Orthodontic treatment will take years.
Fact: Thanks to the latest advancements in orthodontic devices and techniques, adjustments to the teeth and bite can be made faster than ever before. For patients who only want to straighten their teeth for cosmetic reasons, slight changes can often be completed in just 8-12 months. While adults with more complicated issues might require longer treatment, today’s methods make the process more efficient than ever before.
Myth #3: My only option is metal braces.
Fact: Treatments like Invisalign and clear/ceramic braces are specifically designed to be image-friendly, allowing adults to straighten their teeth while avoiding the dreaded mouthful of metal. With these appliances, only you and your orthodontist will know that you’re undergoing treatment.
Myth #4: Straightening my teeth will only improve how I look, so it isn’t worth the investment.
Fact: While it’s true that straight teeth look great, they also tend to be much healthier compared to crooked and crowded teeth. When the teeth are misaligned, this can create small, hard to reach areas where plaque and tartar can accumulate that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing. An improper bite can also create muscle tension in the face and jaw that leads to chronic headaches and earaches. Orthodontics can permanently solve these issues: properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and develop fewer cavities, and an aligned bite will allow strained facial muscles to relax and heal.
If you missed out on braces as a child, it’s not too late. You have more options available to you than ever before, and sooner than you think, you’ll be seeing a perfectly straight set of teeth in the mirror.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Shirck is a board-certified and award-winning orthodontist based in Powell, OH. The Ohio State University graduate has been voted as one of Columbus’ Top Orthodontists every year since 2011, and in that time, he’s successfully treated patients of all ages. If you’re an adult who’s interested in orthodontic care, getting started is easy—just contact Shirck Orthodontics today to schedule a FREE consultation.