If you’re considering your options for straighter, healthier teeth, you may want to rethink what you’ve heard about traditional metal braces.

Phuong Le, DMD, our orthodontic specialist at Le Dentistry & Associates, offers a variety of teeth straightening options, including metal braces, because of the excellent results traditional braces provide.

How traditional braces straighten teeth

Traditional braces use a combination of metal brackets and wires. The brackets attach directly to the surface of your teeth with special dental cement. Wires thread through the brackets and, during ongoing dental visits, are tightened to shift your teeth into proper alignment.

Metal braces can correct a variety of common dental issues that may interfere with your ability to chew food or speak. They can also improve the appearance of your smile and your overall dental health.

The providers at Le Dentistry & Associates may recommend traditional braces for you to correct teeth that are:

  • Gapped
  • Crooked
  • Misaligned
  • Overcrowded

By following a customized treatment plan that addresses your individual dental needs, the Le Dentistry & Associates providers can help you achieve your smile goals while also improving your long-term oral health.

However, with many new options for straightening teeth on the market, there are a few myths going around about traditional braces. You may have heard negative things about braces, even the incorrect conspiracy theory that metal braces can transmit radio signals.

Before you decide that metal braces aren’t for you, read about some other inaccurate myths you might have heard.

MYTH 1: I’m too old for metal braces

FACT: You’re never too old to benefit from traditional metal braces. If you’re worried about the appearance of metal braces on your teeth because of your job or personal preferences, you may want to discuss other orthodontic options like clear aligners with our Le Dentistry & Associates team.

MYTH 2: Metal braces are very painful

FACT: The reality with metal braces is that it does take some time to get used to wearing them, but the discomfort doesn’t last forever.

Many people wear metal braces without a problem, and the Le Dentistry & Associates team is always here to help. After a wire adjustment to tighten your braces, your mouth may feel sore, but the discomfort goes away soon after. You can also make small changes to your diet like avoiding hard or chewy foods to prevent teeth and jaw pain.

MYTH 3: Results take too long with metal braces

FACT: While two years is a common treatment period for many people, your individual situation may require less treatment time. You can discuss your potential treatment time with Dr. Le to determine which orthodontic option is best for your lifestyle.

MYTH 4: I can’t be physically active with metal braces

FACT: Metal braces don’t undermine what you can do physically. If you participate in sports, you can protect your teeth and jaw with a customized mouthguard. A mouthguard is generally recommended for all athletes — even those who don’t wear braces — to reduce risk factors for tooth damage and jaw fractures.

MYTH 5: It’s too late to fix my teeth

FACT: Many adults don’t pursue orthodontic treatments because they think it’s too late for them to improve their dental health.

The fact remains that improving your smile is possible and recommended at any age to prevent other health complications associated with poor oral health, including heart disease. With straighter, healthier teeth, you can also eat and talk without pain, and your smile will always look great.

To find out if you’re a candidate for metal braces, call Le Dentistry & Associates today or request an oral health evaluation through the online booking system.

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