Debunking Common Myths About Orthodontic Care

Myth #1. Anyone who provides braces or aligners is an orthodontist.

False. Although some general dentists or online companies offer braces, only orthodontists with advanced training from an accredited residency can call themselves specialists or AAO members. Furthermore, these orthodontists have specialized expertise in this field. Don’t risk permanent damage by letting anyone else move your teeth. Choose an AAO orthodontist for the best results. Look for the AAO logo at your orthodontist’s office, or locate an AAO orthodontist using ‘Find an Orthodontist’ at aaoinfo.org/truth.

Myth #2. Orthodontists are so expensive.

AAO orthodontists customize treatment plans, and their fees reflect case complexity. From simple to complex cases, expert care is worth it. Most offer free consultations and flexible payment plans. Trust an AAO orthodontist to safely straighten your teeth and monitor your progress.

Myth #3. Office visits are not necessary to get straight teeth.

Consequently, if a qualified orthodontist never sees you during treatment, they cannot monitor the health of your gums, teeth, and jaws. Even the most carefully planned treatments require close monitoring to stay on course. A trained orthodontist must handle visits if a problem arises or a mid-course correction is needed.Fortunately, today’s technology has allowed patients to extend intervals between appointments to as long as 8 to 10 weeks.

Myth #4. Orthodontic treatment takes several years

First and foremost, orthodontic treatment requires careful, controlled movements of the teeth to ensure they are moving into proper positions. Subsequently, our AAO orthodontist delivers excellent results in the shortest time possible. Moreover, this is true regardless of whether your case is simple or complex. In addition, our expert approach ensures optimal outcomes for all patients. Don’t risk irreversible damage by choosing someone less qualified.

Myth #5. Orthodontic treatment is purely cosmetic.

There’s much more to orthodontic treatment than meets the eye. An improved appearance is the most obvious result. When teeth and jaws are aligned, your function (biting, chewing, speaking) improves too—offering a dual treatment benefit!

That beautiful smile is the outward sign of good oral health, and sets the stage for the patient’s overall well-being. Orthodontists play a larger role in healthcare than most people realize.

Myth #6. Orthodontists only offer metal braces.

Orthodontists spend years studying and training in how teeth move. It makes them expertly qualified to use all the tools available to provide the best care possible orthodontic care for their patients. Orthodontists offer metal braces and a range of other appliances, both fixed and removable, with clear options. AAO orthodontists have the expertise to choose the best appliance for the best results.

Myth #7. Orthodontic treatment is just for kids.

False. Patients of all ages, young and old, can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Age is not a concern when it comes to getting a healthy, beautiful smile. IIn 2014, AAO orthodontists treated close to 1.5 million adults! Consequently, because adults may have more complicated cases due to prior dental work or gum disease, it is imperative that their treatment be provided by an AAO orthodontist. Furthermore, these specialists have the extensive training, expertise, and experience necessary to deliver the best results. In fact, choosing an AAO orthodontist ensures that even complex adult cases are handled with the utmost skill and precision. Therefore, adults seeking orthodontic treatment should prioritize working with these qualified professionals for optimal outcomes.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) admits only orthodontists as members—exclusively for specialists. Only doctors who complete dental school and an additional two-to-three years of accredited orthodontic residency can call themselves orthodontists.

Choosing an orthodontic care with right orthodontist ensures you’re selecting a specialist with the expertise to give you your best smile.