Tucson AZ Dentists Dismiss Myths about Braces

According to dentists at Smile Tucson, many patients come to their office thinking that they already know a lot of things about dental braces. Unfortunately, some of the things they know are not always correct. There are myths that should be removed from people’s minds — just like how plaque should be removed from the teeth.  Here are some popular myths about dental braces and what Tucson AZ dentists have to say about them.

Your braces have to hurt in order to work
According to popular saying, it’s impossible to gains something without pain. While this is true for boxers or martial artists, most dentists believe the saying doesn’t apply to dental braces. The pain associated with braces is considered a thing from the past; back when braces only have stiff wires. Today’s braces have more flexible wires, causing only minimal discomfort. There are patients who don’t even feel any pain, as if they are not wearing any braces at all. Believe it or not, braces do not have to hurt in order to work.

The tighter your braces are, the more effective it will be
Tight braces Tucson patients want for their teeth are not always effective. Many patients ask their dentists to tighten their braces to speed up the process. While force is necessary to move the teeth, too much force can actually damage the bone and surrounding tissues. Experts at Smile Tucson say dental braces should neither be too tight or too loose. The dentist will be the one to determine how much force is needed to move the teeth properly.

Once you get your braces off, your teeth will stay straight forever
Most dentists will tell you that braces are not permanent solutions for misaligned teeth. Once the braces come off, the teeth can still move back to their original position. This is why Tucson AZ dentists usually recommend wearing retainers to keep the teeth in their ideal position. Otherwise, the entire process might have to be repeated all over again.

The day you are supposed to take your braces off is set in stone
After installing dental braces, dentists usually tell their patients when they should take their braces off. A Tucson AZ dentist may provide a schedule, but this is purely tentative. Factors such as poor oral hygiene and broken wires can prolong the alignment process, requiring more time wearing braces. If the dentist says it’s not a good time to take off the braces, it means the braces are still working to get the teeth in proper position.