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The Truth Behind 5 Orthodontic Myths

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Whatever your age, the idea of having braces and orthodontic treatment can be scary. You shouldn't worry, though. You are in good hands. There are a lot of beliefs surrounding the use and wearing of braces, but not all of them are true. Here is the truth behind four orthodontic myths.

  1. Braces can set off metal detectors at airports. You may think that because you feel like you have a mouth full of metal (at least at first), that those metal detectors are sure to go off when you go through airport security. Luckily, there isn't enough metal in braces to set off a metal detector, so no embarrassing beeping at the airport will happen.
  2. Braces increase your chance of being struck by lightning. Some people do think that having metal in your mouth can attract a lightning strike during a storm. Actually, evidence suggests that lightning is not necessarily attracted to metal. In any case, as mentioned above, your braces won't actually contain much metal. If you wear braces, your chances of getting struck by lightning as the same as any other Australian, one in 1.6 million.  
  3. Braces are very painful. It can be a shock for your mouth when your braces are first put on. The sudden pressure will cause some discomfort, and perhaps even mild pain. But this pain should ease as your mouth becomes used to the braces. This discomfort will occur every time your braces are tightened but should never last for long. Braces should not be very or constantly painful. If the pain continues for more than a few days or the braces are digging into your cheeks or gums, speak to your orthodontist.  
  4. Retainers don't have to be worn. Retainers are often given towards the end of treatment, either in conjunction with braces or once the braces have been taken off. They ensure that the teeth do not move once the pressure from the braces is removed. Some retainers you will need to wear all of the time, others only during the night. Either way, they can be a little annoying. But they are important. If you decide not to wear your retainer, your teeth will move back, and you'll undo all your good work. Nearly 25% of orthodontic patients who don't wear their retainer end up having braces again.

Don't fret about your orthodontic treatment; braces may be a little uncomfortable at first but they are safe and will leave you with a winning smile. For more information, contact a business such as Denticheck.


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