When it comes to orthodontics, you’re probably like most people, you probably think of teenagers with braces. This common stereotype isn’t completely true. The truth is that orthodontic treatment can benefit patients of all ages – including adults! More adults than ever are utilizing orthodontics to straighten their teeth and improve their oral health. In fact, about 1 in every 5 current orthodontic patients is over the age of 18, and that number continues to grow each day. Keep reading below as we’re debunking some of the most common myths about braces for adults (and give you a look at why they’re the most popular orthodontic treatment, year after year!)

If you’ve spent years of your adult life feeling unhappy with the way your teeth look or function, this is the perfect time to take a look at how Booth Orthodontics can help! 

We offer a variety of innovative treatment options to correct mild and severe orthodontic issues, including traditional braces. Although today’s braces are comfortable and efficient, some patients are still on the fence about them. If you find yourself reluctant to consider braces to achieve a healthier smile, it’s probably because of what you think you know about them. 

Myth #1: Braces are just for children and teens

One of the most common myths about braces for adults is that braces are designed only for children and teens. It’s true that a large number of our patients are kids and teens, but anyone of any age can benefit from all our orthodontic treatment has to offer. 

Many people have a better understanding of the many ways their oral health connects to their total body health as we get older. This understanding can lead to a desire to take better care of teeth and gums, which may include seeking dental care or orthodontic treatment. 

Many adults have crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, incorrect jaw positioning, or other issues that they’ve waited years to correct. Others hoping to improve their smile cosmetically. Whatever your reason for seeking treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, healthier, more confident smile!

Myth #2: Braces will make you stand out 

This is another common myth that keeps many adults from getting braces. You don’t want to draw attention to your teeth if you’re feeling self-conscious about them in the first place, which is what you may be worried about happening once you get braces. But thanks to modern orthodontic technology, there are lots of treatments available to adult patients! Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Barry Booth offer the following options for a complete smile makeover:

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces are one of our most popular and efficient treatments. They’re made out of high-quality stainless steel. Modern metal braces are much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with lots 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 especially useful in cases that are more severe or complicated.

Clear braces

Also known as ceramic or tooth-colored braces, these work the same way metal braces do. However, you get the added 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 them 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 consists of a series of removable plastic trays that fit over the teeth and gently move them where they need to go overtime. These customized aligners are replaced with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movement of your teeth. These systems offer patients a bit of freedom and flexibility not available with fixed braces since the aligners can be removed when eating or drinking. It also makes maintaining an oral hygiene routine much simpler since you can brush and floss normally.  

Myth #3: Braces Hurt 

Modern orthodontic treatment is much more gentle and effective than in the past. This means braces are more comfortable than ever before. While you may notice the occasional uncomfortable situation as described below, these issues are minor and are easy to handle if you’re willing to take the time to learn what to do! 

General mouth irritation

Irritation on your cheeks, lips, or gums isn’t uncommon during your treatment. Orthodontic wax is an easy way to feel some relief! Make sure the bracket or wire is completely dry, 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 part of your appliance causing irritation. 

Protruding wires

Occasionally, a wire may come loose and irritate the inside of your mouth. This can be fixed with a 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 bracket

Loose brackets are a problem we need to know about as soon as possible. Once you let us know what’s happening, we’ll help you decide what the next step 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 also make it more stable. 

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 help 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 in with our doctors first! 

Myth #4: Braces are too expensive 

Orthodontic treatment of any kind is certainly an investment of your time and finances. However, the benefits will last a lifetime! There aren’t surprise costs or unwelcome hidden fees here at Booth Orthodontics. During your free\ consultation, we’ll outline everything included in your treatment plan. These individualized plans contain everything needed for beautiful, long-lasting results, such as:

• all appointments, including emergency visits
• braces or aligners
• Retainers
• post-treatment follow-up visits
• and an oral hygiene starter pack, too!

We appreciate what a big investment treatment is for patients, and our office will work with your budget to make sure you get a confident smile you love! We offer convenient payment plans, and we also accept most major credit cards and insurance plans. We’ll even file your insurance claims for you! Our treatment fees are based on the skill of our expert team, the quality of the products we use, and the world-class service we provide. Our doctor has many years of experience creating healthy smiles for patients of all ages throughout Homer Glen, Lockport, Orland Park, and the surrounding communities. 

Get a beautiful smile with braces by Booth Orthodontics

Braces are a great option to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, no matter your age. Choosing experienced orthodontists like Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Barry Booth will guarantee you only get the best treatment for your individual smile. Our expert team provides patients with an orthodontic experience that’s rewarding and stress-free from your first appointment to your last! 

Don’t let any common myths about braces keep you from a beautiful, healthy smile. If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation.