Two Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid to Get Braces

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If an orthodontist has recently told you that you're going to need braces in order to straighten your teeth, you may be feeling a mixture of emotions. While you're likely pleased at the prospect of having straight teeth, you may also have other fears based upon some of the feedback you've heard from friends and family members who've had braces. However, braces have come a long way, and many of your fears may be unfounded. Use this information to learn more about why you shouldn't be afraid of orthodontic treatment.

Braces Now Use Less Force

One of the main reasons why you can release some of the anxiety that you are feeling about getting braces is because they now use less force to move your teeth.  

Those metal brackets that are common to traditional braces apply a great deal of force to the teeth to get them to move. While it would seem that the more force you use, the more effective the movement would be, this is now generally understood to be untrue.  

Orthodontists are now using less force to move teeth. Instead of the large, metal brackets of the past, dentists now use lightweight titanium. Although the titanium is certainly strong, it is about as flexible as a noodle. This allows orthodontists to move the teeth just as effectively as metal, without the same amount of pain.

Braces Aren't Just For Kids Anymore

If you're a late bloomer who has determined that you don't want to go through the rest of your life with a crooked smile, you're not alone. Approximately half of all orthodontic patients are adults. This means that if you decide to get braces and you're not a middle schooler, you will certainly be in good company.

Although you may believe that once you get past a certain age you'll feel strange wearing braces, you no longer have to hold onto this belief.  Because so many adults are opting to get braces, it's highly likely that even some of the people you interact with on a regular basis also have them.

Even if you can't see the braces, don't think for one minute that they aren't there.  Some adults choose invisalign, which is nearly invisible to the naked eye. Other adults opt for lingual braces, which are placed behind the teeth, making it very difficult to see them unless you look very closely.

Getting braces doesn't have to be an anxiety-filled event. If you need to get braces, keep this information in mind so you can face the procedure with confidence.


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