Wearing braces as an adult is becoming more acceptable. At the same time, the social stigma of having bad teeth is getting worse. New technology means many adults are now choosing to have orthodontic treatment. But some people still are missing out because they’re worried about wearing braces.
Luckily, it’s never too late to improve your smile. Perhaps you tried braces in your teens, or you’ve always wanted straighter teeth but never had treatment; don’t let concerns hold you back. Talk to your dentist about the options now available.
Here are five common misconceptions about adult orthodontic treatment:
1. Everyone will notice
Tooth-coloured wires and brackets mean your brace will only be visible close-up. Unlike metal braces, hardly anyone will see. You’ll quickly feel completely confident wearing your braces, and happier because you’re doing something about your teeth.
2. Braces will hurt all the time
Braces can feel a bit uncomfortable after having them fitted or adjusted, but it will be more of a dull ache than pain. And it will go away after a few days.
3. You won’t look like “you”
Changing the way your teeth align will change your smile – for the better. But it will still look like your smile, and you’ll still look like you.
4. Talking will be difficult
Having something new in your mouth can feel a bit odd at first. But you’ll soon get used to it, and you shouldn’t have any problems talking. At most, you might have a very soft lisp.
5. You’ll be the odd-one-out
You certainly won’t be alone in wearing braces as an adult. Everyone from Tom Cruise to the ordinary bloke on the street is getting braces these days. Just ask around – you’re bound to discover a friend of a friend who’s having treatment.
