Mythbusters for Braces

With any medical, dental, or orthodontic treatment, there are going to be some misconceptions that prevent people from pursuing the solution that they need to live a healthier, happier life. Yes, this even includes braces.

Needless to say, orthodontic treatment and technology has come a long way since it was first invented in the 1800s—Yes! It’s true!—so although some of the myths about braces may have been true at one point, almost none of them hold any truth here in 2013.

Whether it’s health concerns about braces, social concerns, or off-the-wall myths like braces attracting fish, we’re here to do some orthodontic mythbusting!

If two people with braces kiss, can they become locked together?Today’s braces are smaller and more compact than they used to be—it is virtually impossible for this to happen. Braces aren’t magnetic either, so any attraction you’re feeling isn’t coming from the braces!

Will my braces cause problems with the TSA at the airport?

Nope! The metal detectors at Pittsburgh International Airport will not be set off by your orthodontic treatment.

Will my braces rust?

Although this may have been possible 50 years ago, today’s braces are made of stronger, high quality metals like titanium alloy.

Do braces interfere with radio or cell phone signals?

No. Your iPhone or other devices should function normally, no matter how close or far it is from your mouth.

Will braces prevent me from playing a musical instrument like a trumpet?

In most cases, no! It might take some getting used to, but you should be able to play your mouthpiece instruments just as well as you did before the braces, without pain or discomfort.

Do braces increase the probability of getting struck by lightning?

With or without braces the chances of a lightning strike remain the same: about one in 700,000.

Now that I have braces, can I still play sports?

Yes, but be sure to wear a mouth guard. Mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available. Not only can mouth guards save teeth, they may also protect against jaw fractures. Mouth guards are advisable for anyone, whether they wear braces or not.

Will my braces attract unwarranted attention from fish?

Ocean swimmers, listen up! The brackets used in today’s braces, especially ceramic or tooth-colored brackets, will not attract attention from unfriendly fish or wildlife.

Have any more questions for our staff about orthodontic myths, or want to discuss treatment for yourself or a loved one? Call Reed Orthodontics for a consultation, at 412- 421-8565!

Straight Teeth Good for More than a Smile

When many patients first come into our office, they’re thinking one thing: they want a better smile. And yes, orthodontic treatment like traditional bracket braces or Invisalign can be reliable, affordable ways to straighten your teeth.

But what many patients don’t realize is that having straight teeth is also a health benefit. Here are some ways that straight teeth contribute not just to a sparkling smile, but to a healthy one:

• Straight teeth are easier to brush. When your teeth are too close together, the crowding can result in hard-to-reach areas for your toothbrush and floss. Food tends to get caught between crowded teeth as well, which can cause bacteria and plaque to grow. And when bacteria and plaque grow, conditions like gum inflammation and gingivitis are more likely to develop. On the other hand, too much space can also cause food to lodge between two teeth, so cavities and gum disease are more likely to occur.
• Straight teeth mean healthy gums. Gums fit much more snugly around straight teeth than crooked ones. This will prevent pieces of feed from getting to comfortable in there!
• It’s easier to speak and chew. When your teeth aren’t straight, not only are you more likely to chip a tooth, but you’ll also find it much easier to speak and chew your food correctly—this can lead to gastrointestinal problems. In addition, properly aligned teeth put less stress on your jawbones.

Braces are a great general health choice for people of all ages—not just kids. If you’re having a hard time chewing, brushing, flossing, or anything else listed above, consider getting bracket braces or Invisalign. Ivy Horn, an Atlanta attorney, told WebMD about her experience getting braces as an adult:

"I'm not embarrassed about having [braces] at my age because you see a lot of people now, young adults, even older adults wearing braces. In my field I do a lot of speaking when I am in court a lot. I just think it would look better if I had the clear braces rather than the metal braces so people aren't focusing so much on what's in my mouth but the words that are coming out of my mouth."

To schedule an appointment with Reed Orthodontics or if you have any questions, call 412.421.8565 or click here.