Orthodontic treatment can provide beautiful smiles and healthy bites, but there are a lot of myths surrounding orthodontic treatment. At Rochester Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, our goal is to provide excellent treatment for patients of all ages. And sometimes, that means dispelling common myths our patients may hear.

Myth 1 – I don’t need to see an orthodontist to have my smile corrected.

There are a growing number of dentists offering some form of orthodontic treatment in their offices today, and thanks to the internet, you can also order aligner kits and have them shipped directly to you. But, there is no substituting the expertise of a trained orthodontist.

While every orthodontist is also a dentist, not every dentist is an orthodontist. To call oneself an orthodontist, the dentist has to go on to an additional training program after graduating from dental school. During this orthodontic residency, the dentist will get extra training in the intricacies of the smile. This training includes additional classroom learning, but it also includes clinical work so the orthodontist builds expertise in how to straighten teeth and align jaws.

Myth 2 – Orthodontic treatment is prohibitively expensive.

People often joke about the cost of braces, and we know that sometimes seeing the total cost can seem a bit daunting. However, when you look at the benefits orthodontic treatment can provide, they far outweigh the cost. Most major dental insurances cover at least a portion of the cost, and every orthodontic office will work with their patients to find a payment plan that can comfortably fit into their budget.

 Myth 3 – Orthodontic treatment is only about cosmetics.

Some people may think they can skip orthodontic treatment because they think it only provides cosmetic benefits. And if you don’t necessarily care about a straight smile, why go through the hassle of braces? The truth is, orthodontic treatment does so much more than just make prettier smiles. It also makes healthier smiles. That’s because straighter teeth are easier to keep clean, which can help fend off decay and gum disease. But another big thing orthodontic treatment works to address is creating a harmonious bite. A bad bite can lead to a host of dental issues, such as breaking, chipping, and cracking of teeth. It can also cause head, neck, and jaw pain.

While one goal of orthodontic treatment is to create a more beautiful smile, that is hardly the only thing it accomplishes. Straighter teeth also help patients speak, bite, and chew properly, and orthodontic treatment can increase your self-esteem.

Myth 4 – Orthodontic treatment is only for kids.

While the ideal age to visit an orthodontist is seven, it’s never too late to begin orthodontic treatment. Today, nearly one in four orthodontic patients is an adult.

Myth 5 – Orthodontic treatment will just draw more attention to something I want to hide.

There are more treatment options than ever before to get the smile you’ve always wanted, and many are highly discreet. From clear aligners to ceramic braces to lingual braces, there is an option right for you and your lifestyle. Today, everyone can get the smile they deserve, with the treatment that will be best for their needs.

Call Rochester Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics today to begin your journey to a new smile.