Facts About Braces

Kelly Orthodontics

At Kelly Orthodontics, we often get asked a lot of great questions about orthodontic care and treatment. We have also seen a lot of false information on orthodontic treatment. Some are rumors and others are myths that are believed to be fact.

Myth: “Braces and orthodontic treatment are only for children.”

Fact: Braces are not just for kids… orthodontics can be rewarding to adults as well. Teeth provide the support structure for the soft tissue of the lower face, including lips, and cheeks. By repositioning the teeth and jaw, skin can appear tighter, and lips can appear fuller. Adults can often achieve greater facial aesthetics without surgery or the extraction of teeth with a treatment plan utilizing an appliance that can expand the jaw and reposition teeth and gums.

Myth: “I can’t play sports anymore because I have braces.”

Fact: Having braces, does not mean you have to stop living your life! Whether you just received braces or are near the end of your treatment, braces should not be a barrier to playing any type of sport. If you wear a mouth guard, braces should not stop you from playing your favorite sport. If you are unsure which type of mouth guard to use or need more information on mouth guards, ask our staff.

Myth: “My dentist says he can give me braces or Invisalign.”

Fact: Both an orthodontist and a dentist are health care professionals that work on teeth. Both health care professionals help patients achieve good oral health and both are dental school graduates. All Orthodontists are dentists, but only a small percentage of dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists must successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics. Orthodontists specialize in the alignment of teeth and services include treating misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, overbites, and under bites. Only an orthodontist who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign.

A new smile means a new life change. At Kelly Orthodontics, we understand that a big decision like this is not easy. We will ensure that we answer all questions and make you feel comfortable. If you have any addition questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask us before coming to your first visit.