DR. CHENG LUN WANG, DR. KEVIN LEE, & DR. YAN LIU CERTIFIED SPECIALISTS IN ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontic Myths
Orthodontic Myths and Facts
MYTH: An Orthodontist is a dentist that just does braces.
FACT: An Orthodontist is a trained Dental Specialist with an additional 3 years of University education after dental school that is focused on the straightening of teeth to provide proper function and ensuring correct alignment of the jaws.
MYTH: My family dentist says he can straighten my teeth.
FACT: While many dentist are able to straighten teeth, an Orthodontist has 2-3 years of specialized training beyond dental school and is a specialist at straightening teeth and insuring proper form and function. A dentist may see some cases in a year while as an orthodontist only practices orthodontics, they treat hundreds of cases in the same time frame.
MYTH: An Orthodontists is needed only to correct the most challenging and complex orthodontic cases.
FACT: Orthodontists recognize the difference between a simple case and a complex one. When a case is challenging, orthodontists know what to do and how to do it. Sometimes, an orthodontic case appears to be simple and straight forward to treat but can actually be one of the most difficult types of bites to correct.
MYTH: Braces are for kids.
FACT: While most patients are young, many adults undergo orthodontic care. One in five orthodontic patients is an adult, and this percentage is increasing.
MYTH: Braces are magnetic and things will stick to my braces.
FACT: This is unlikely as braces are made from non-magnetic materials.
MYTH: Orthodontists charge more than general dentists for orthodontic treatment.
FACT: We need to recognize that it is not the same work. The value in seeing an orthodontist for treatment is that the orthodontist is a highly experienced expert and understands what is required to obtain a wonderful smile while maintaining proper form and function. Because of the increase level of experience, the orthodontist can often do the work at the same price and to a higher standard.
MYTH: Braces are painful
FACT: Braces require an initial adjustment period. Similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes, braces need a short amount of time to adjust to before becoming comfortable. We also provide methods to make that adjustment period more comfortable.
MYTH: Braces take 2 years before the teeth are straight
FACT: Treatment time is not the same for everyone. Your treatment time depends on your stage of dental and skeletal development, the severity of crowding or spacing, and how your jaws relate to each other. Treatment can often be achieved in several months.
MYTH: Braces are ugly, call attention to themselves and would be embarrassing in business settings.
FACT: Today’s braces may be nearly invisible, made from clear plastic, or be tooth coloured.
MYTH: Orthodontists keep to themselves
FACT: Orthodontists give back to the community in many different ways. Some offer scholarships, sponsor sports teams, and offer discounted or free services to patients in need.
MYTH: Any dentist may join the Canadian Association of Orthodontists
FACT: Only certified orthodontists may become members of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists.
