Most people are familiar with what a dentist does on a day-to-day basis. But there is still a lot of misinformation regarding the work of orthodontists. Here at Markham Orthodontics, we want everyone to feel comfortable getting the ortho treatment they need so they can feel confident showcasing their most beautiful asset—their smile. That’s why we’re dispelling some of the most common myths related to the field of orthodontics. We hope you’ll gain some valuable insight to help you make a more informed decision about your oral health.

Myth #1: Dentists and Orthodontists are One in the Same

As the old adage goes, not all dentists are orthodontists, but all orthodontists are dentists. Confusing, right? While both professionals are committed to helping you improve the look and health of your teeth, the main differences come down to training. To become a certified orthodontist, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree, and a doctorate at a dental school, and then complete two or three years of additional specialty training at an orthodontic residency program, which involves a blend of classroom studies and clinical experience. Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and aligning jaws for optimal function and form. They also possess expertise in the functionality of orthodontic appliance tools including braces, clear aligners, retainers, and more.

Myth #2: Orthodontics is Expensive

The costs of treatment vary greatly as they are dependent on the complexity of each case. And each orthodontic practice has its own fee structure in place. However, we sincerely believe that the benefits far outweigh the costs. The value in seeing an orthodontist at Markham Orthodontics can be found in the collective education, expertise, and experience that our team possesses. And, in the way we treat our patients like individuals, not cases. A complimentary consultation at our office with one of our experienced professionals can help ensure that your preferred orthodontic choice can fit within your budget.

Myth #3: Orthodontics is Purely Cosmetic

The results of ortho treatment extend far beyond giving you a stunning smile. While some people may choose ortho treatment for aesthetic purposes, appliances like braces are necessary for health reasons. The purpose of braces is to position teeth into their best possible alignment. Teeth that suffer from misalignment can lead to achy jaws, headaches, facial pain, and neck pain, and can even interfere with proper chewing since crooked teeth don’t operate as well as straight ones. Teeth that are misaligned can also be more difficult to brush and keep clean, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Myth #4: Orthodontists Only Treat Children and Young Adults

Another widespread misconception about orthodontic specialists is that they only treat children. While you are bound to see lots of young children when you visit an orthodontic clinic, you’ll also come across many teenagers and adults. In fact, one in five patients currently undergoing ortho treatment is an adult. Since crooked teeth can be caused by a variety of different factors, it’s entirely plausible for an individual to require ortho treatment at any age.

Contact Your Local Dentist Today

Now that you’ve got the facts, are you ready to set your smile straight? Contact our Sacramento Natomas, CA practice online or call our office at 916-924-8970 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll answer all of your questions, discuss your goals, and customize a treatment plan to suit your smile and needs.