What do you think of when someone says “orthodontics? Most people think of a teenager in braces. While this remains, the stereotype, orthodontic treatment can help patients of any age get a beautiful, healthy smile. Yes, this included adults! We see more adults than ever considering orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth and improve their oral health. Did you know that about 1 in 5 current orthodontic patients is over the age of 18? That number continues to increase. Keep reading to debunk some of the most common myths about braces for adults (and explore why they’re the #1 treatment option, year after year!)
If you’re an adult who has spent years feeling unhappy with the way your teeth look or function, this is the perfect time to take a look at how Buttram Orthodontics can help!
We offer innovative treatment options to correct orthodontic issues from mild to severe, including traditional braces. And even though modern braces are comfortable and efficient, some patients still aren’t quite sure 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, and that may be just a myth.
Myth #1: Braces are just for children and teens
Yes, a large number of our patients are kids and teens. But, you’re never too old to take advantage of all the benefits that come from orthodontic treatment! Most people start to understand the many ways their oral health is related to total body health as they age. This can bring a desire to take better care of our 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 wanted fixed for years but have waited by choice or necessity. Others are simply looking to improve their smile cosmetically. No matter what your reason. is for exploring treatment as an adult, braces can give you a straighter, healthier, more confident smile!
Myth #2: Braces will make you stand out
If you’re already feeling insecure about your teeth, the last thing you want is to draw more attention to them. You believe that’s what will happen if you get braces, but thanks to modern orthodontic technology, there are multiple treatments available to adult patients! Dr. Buttram offers the following options for a complete smile makeover:
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces are one of our most popular and efficient treatments around. They’re made of high-quality stainless steel, modern metal braces and are much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable! There are a variety of fun colored bands to choose from if you want to show off a little personality with your smile! These braces deliver fantastic results and are especially useful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic or tooth-colored braces, these function the same way metal braces do. However, they provide an 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 them with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, they are an impressively subtle way to straighten your smile. This makes them an especially attractive choice for our adult patients.
Invisalign
The Invisalign system consists of a series of removable plastic trays 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. These systems offer patients a bit of freedom and flexibility not available with fixed braces since the aligners can be removed when you eat or drink. this also means maintaining an oral hygiene routine is much easier since you can brush and floss as you normally would.
Myth #3: Braces are painful
Modern orthodontic treatment has found many gentle was to move your teeth, making it far more comfortable that in the past. Braces are generally more comfortable than they’ve ever been. While you may experience a little discomfort from time to time, as outlined below, these minor issues are usually easy to take care of with a little patience and knowledge!
General mouth irritation
Non-specific irritation in your cheeks, lips, or gums is likely to happen during your treatment. Orthodontic wax is an easy way to relieve this pain. Make sure the bracket or wire is completely dry, then pinch off a small amount of wax and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball and place it firmly over the part of your braces that’s causing irritation.
Protruding wires
Occasionally, a wire may come loose and irritate the inside of your mouth. This can be fixed with 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 bracket
Loose brackets are a problem we need to know about as soon as you are. Once we know what’s happening, we’ll help you decide what the next step should be. In the meantime, try sliding the bracket back along the wire to the center of the tooth. Orthodontic wax placed over the bracket can also add stability.
Tenderness in your mouth or gums
You may have a little bit of tenderness immediately after your braces are put on, or after adjustment appointments. A saltwater rinse is one of the best home remedy to help with this. To help reduce soreness, 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 Dr. Buttram first!
Myth #4: Braces are too expensive
Orthodontic treatment of any kind is an investment of your time and finances. We get it! However, the benefits will last a lifetime! There are no hidden costs or unwelcome surprises here at Buttram Orthodontics. During your 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!
Our treatment fees reflect the skill of our experienced team, the quality of the products we use, and the world-class service we provide. Dr. Buttram has many years of experience creating healthy smiles for patients of all ages throughout Panama City, Lynn Haven, and the surrounding communities. We appreciate what a big investment treatment is for you and your family, and our office will work with your budget to help you achieve 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!
Get a beautiful smile with braces by Buttram Orthodontics
Braces can be a fantastic option for straightening your teeth and improving your oral health, no matter your age. Choosing experienced orthodontists like Dr. Buttram will guarantee you only get the best results and the best smile. Our expert team provides patients with an orthodontic experience that’s comfortable and stress-free every step of the way.
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.
