5 Myths About Orthodontics: Setting the Record Straight!

Myths about orthodontics: Today, we are far from the image of “railroad tracks”, those particularly embarrassing orthodontic treatments of the last century. Although these treatments are much more common today, certain stereotypes are still going strong!

Dr. Normand Bach, your orthodontist in Montréal, proposes to debunk the myths about orthodontics once and for all.

Myth about orthodontics # 1: Orthodontic treatments are solely intended for children and adolescents

If it’s true that orthodontic treatments are often recommended at a young age, it doesn’t mean that this is the only good time to start treatment. On the contrary! Today, adults represent more than 25% of orthodontic patients.

Whether you are 30, 40, 50 or older, it is never too late. In fact, advances in dentistry are allowing people to keep their teeth longer and longer, sometimes even for life. Isn’t it worth the investment to make your smile more beautiful?

If it’s the appearance of braces that’s holding you back, you should know that there are less visible options today. Invisalign treatments, for example, may be right for you. Make an appointment to discuss this option!

Myth # 2: Orthodontics is just an aesthetic treatment

Often, patients who undergo treatment do so primarily for aesthetic reasons. However, orthodontics is not a matter of mere aesthetics!

Misaligned or overlapping teeth can lead to more serious problems, including tartar build-up leading to cavities and gum disease. They can also cause chewing problems that affect your digestive health.

Our treatments aim not only to beautify your smile, but also to prevent the development of oral, digestive or even respiratory problems.

Myth # 3: Dentists can do the same job as orthodontists

Some dentists offer in-office orthodontic treatment. However, while dentists are highly skilled in their field, they do not specialize in orthodontics.

Let’s clarify things: both dentists and orthodontists enroll in dental school. After graduation, orthodontists pursue their studies for 2 or 3 years in a program dedicated to orthodontics. Then, they take continuing education courses each year to further fine-tune their skills.

In short, a dentist can be seen as a general practitioner of dental health, while an orthodontist acts as a specialist in the field. The orthodontist masters the latest advances and technologies and is much better equipped to meet the needs of orthodontic patients.

Simply put, dentists and orthodontists are two complementary professionals. Whether your alignment problem seems simple or more complex, it is best to leave it to the orthodontist.

Myth # 4: Orthodontists only correct teeth alignment

As mentioned, orthodontic treatment can prevent many other dental and general health problems. Did you know that your orthodontist can do much more than just correct the alignment of your teeth?

In fact, they can also be called upon to correct gumline (when there are too many gums on the tooth) or asymmetry. Teeth are not the only ones concerned: occlusion disorders or temporomandibular dysfunctions are other aspects that orthodontists can treat.

Often, these treatments will be initiated upon the recommendation of a dentist who has identified a problem in this area.

Myth # 5: Braces are a painful treatment

Orthodontic treatments have evolved since the last century and continue to progress year after year! Nevertheless, the idea of an invasive and painful treatment has remained in the collective imagination.

It is true that during the first few days following the installation of braces, you may feel some discomfort. However, on a scale of 1 to 10, most patients rate “pain” as only 2.

This is because the materials used have changed, as has the tension applied to your teeth. Treatments no longer use maximum force, but optimal, gentle and constant force. We can offer you several solutions to reduce your discomfort.

Some patients are surprised by the low level of pain they feel and have the impression that the treatment is not working. We can reassure you that you don’t need to suffer or be in pain to get results!

In short, orthodontic treatments have evolved and are now less painful and less restrictive, attracting more and more adults. Most of all, keep in mind that no one is in a better position than your orthodontist to determine the right treatment for you.