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Breaking Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Traditional Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Metal Braces.

Embarking on the journey of orthodontic treatment can be a transformative experience. With options like clear aligners and traditional braces, there are so many great ways to straighten your smile! Yet misconceptions about traditional braces often deter individuals from seeking the care they need and deserve.

If you’re ready to explore the wonderful world of orthodontia, contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. Our team has years of experience helping patients in Tomball, TX, Spring, TX, and Woodland, TX obtain their dream smiles. Schedule a consultation today by calling (832) 699-3683 now!

In today’s blog post, we aim to dispel common myths surrounding traditional braces. Here, we provide accurate information to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their orthodontic journey.

Myth 1: Braces are Only for Cosmetic Purposes

While achieving a straighter smile is undoubtedly a significant benefit, traditional braces offer more than just cosmetic improvements. They also address functional issues, such as:

  • Misaligned bites
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Jaw misalignments

Fixing these functional issues contributes to improved oral health and overall well-being.

Myth 2: Braces Are Only for Children and Teens

In reality, there are no age limits involved in orthodontic treatment. Indeed, many adults choose traditional braces to correct misalignments or bite issues. 

However, there is evidence to suggest that early orthodontic intervention may be more effective, yielding better, faster results. Nevertheless, a straighter, healthier smile is attainable for patients of all ages!

Myth 3: Braces Are Painful and Unbearable

While it’s true that some individuals may experience minimal discomfort during the initial adjustment period, orthodontists design modern braces to reduce pain. 

Patients often adapt quickly, and any discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Just remember: regular adjustments are necessary to ensure progress and comfort throughout the treatment.

Myth 4: Braces Take Forever to Straighten Teeth

Treatment duration varies based on individual needs, but advancements in orthodontic technology have significantly reduced the time needed for effective teeth straightening. Dentists work with patients to establish a realistic timeline, taking into account the complexity of each case.

Myth 5: Braces Are High Maintenance and Require Constant Attention

Contrary to popular belief, maintaining braces is not as high-maintenance as some may think. 

While proper oral hygiene is crucial, caring for braces involves routine brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Our orthodontist provides guidance on effective cleaning methods and offers tips to make the maintenance process more straightforward.

Myth 6: Braces Interfere with Normal Activities

While patients should expect an adjustment period, most people quickly adapt to their braces, and any temporary inconveniences become second nature. With proper care and adjustments, braces do not significantly impede normal activities.

Myth 7: Braces Are Obvious and Unattractive

Advancements in orthodontic technology have led to more discreet and aesthetically pleasing options for traditional braces. Clear brackets and tooth-colored wires provide a less conspicuous appearance, allowing patients to straighten their smiles with more confidence.

Explore Traditional Braces with Dr. Wint Tun

Whether for cosmetic or functional reasons, traditional braces offer a reliable and proven method for achieving a healthier, straighter smile. If you’re ready to explore this treatment, contact Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX. You can request an appointment on our website, or you can dial (832) 699-3683 to speak with our friendly team today!

portrait of african american woman with braces

7 Signs That You Might Benefit From Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Metal Braces.

If you’re wondering whether you might need braces, there are several signs to look out for. In this blog, we’ll explore some common signs that indicate you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, including traditional and clear braces.

Want to learn more about braces and other orthodontia? Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, at (832) 699-3683 today!

1. Crooked, Crowded, or Misaligned Teeth

One of the most obvious signs that you might need braces is if your teeth are visibly crooked, crowded, or misaligned. Overlapping or crowded teeth can create hiding spots for food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Creating a more uniform smile with orthodontia leads to better long-term oral health. 

2. Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps can occur due to various reasons, including genetics, thumb-sucking habits, or missing teeth. If you have noticeable gaps between your teeth (also known as diastemas) it might be a sign that you could benefit from braces. 

3. Overbites or Underbites

Problems with your bite, such as overbites (upper teeth protruding over lower teeth) or underbites (lower teeth extending beyond upper teeth), can affect your oral health and facial appearance. These issues can lead to jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. Braces, along with other orthodontic treatments, can help correct these bite abnormalities.

4. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

If you frequently experience difficulty chewing your food or notice speech problems (such as lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds), it could be due to misaligned teeth or bite issues. Braces can help improve your bite, making it easier to chew and speak without discomfort.

5. Jaw Pain or Discomfort

Jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort can be signs of a misaligned bite or other orthodontic issues. Orthodontic treatment can alleviate this pain by correcting the alignment of your teeth and bite.

6. Self-Esteem and Confidence Issues

While not a physical sign, low self-esteem and confidence issues related to your smile are essential factors to consider. If you find yourself hiding your smile or feeling self-conscious about your teeth, braces can be a valuable investment in your self-esteem. A straighter, more attractive smile can boost your confidence and overall well-being.

7. Early Intervention for Children

Some orthodontic problems are best treated at a young age while the jaw is still growing. Early intervention can prevent more severe issues from developing later in life. So, if your child has any of the signs mentioned above, consult with our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, to determine the best course of action.

Affordable Braces in Tomball, TX

Braces aren’t just about achieving a picture-perfect smile. They also play a vital role in maintaining your oral health and overall well-being. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above in yourself or your child, then it might be time to discuss orthodontic treatment with Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. 

Getting started is simple. Just schedule a braces consultation online here, or give our friendly crew a call at (832) 699-3683 for more information!

multi-colored braces bracket bands on teen girl

Show Your Spirit with Colored Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Metal Braces.

Kids and teens may not be excited about wearing metal orthodontic braces, but colored braces? That’s another story!

To show school spirit or their own free spirit, colored braces come with unlimited options for mixing and matching. And in addition to standard color-wheel options, like black, reds, blues, greens, purples, pinks, and oranges, we often have metallic and glitter bands, which can add a bit of sparkle to your color scheme. (Did someone say “GO TEAM?”) In October, our glow-in-the-dark bands are quite popular, though they’re cool any time of year. For the winter holidays, popular colors are red, green, silver, gold, and blue. With colored bands, you’re the artist.

In today’s blog, we’ll answer common questions about colored braces. If you have additional questions, give us a call at 832-699-3683. As your Tomball orthodontist, Dr. Wint is always happy to answer questions, so you and your kids can make informed decisions about orthodontic treatment.

FAQs for Colored Braces

What are colored braces?

Metal braces brackets help hold an archwire in place by way of ligatures, also called rubber bands, elastics, or just bands. At every appointment, the bands are changed out. Normally, we use clear bands. But who likes normal? 

Colored braces are really metal braces with colored ligatures.

How are bands attached?

The bands are woven into brackets, and they are not the same types of rubber bands that span from top to bottom arches. Those are called interarch bands.

Ligatures (colored braces bands) are literally woven in and around each bracket.

Why do brackets have bands?

Colored braces feature ligatures to help move teeth in specific directions. The archwire itself doesn’t do all of the work.

What colors should I choose?

This is an excellent question. First of all, note that if you use our palette to choose colors, the shade of your bands will be a bit darker than what’s represented in the palette. 

And BONUS, here are some more great tips:

  • DO NOT choose colors that could be mistaken for food stuck on your brackets (brown, green).
  • DO NOT choose yellow; it makes teeth look yellowed.

And…

  • DO choose dark-colored bands to make your teeth look whiter.
  • DO celebrate holidays with the shades of the season.
  • DO support your favorite teams by sporting team colors.
  • DO match bands to your eyes or hair. (This is especially fun if your hair is pink or blue!)
  • DO choose bands in the most prevalent colors of your wardrobe.
  • DO match your bands to your manicure.
  • DO be creative and let your personality shine through!
  • DO plan ahead. Your bands won’t be changed again until your next adjustment appointment. What will happen between now and then? Will baseball end and football begin? Is the 4th of July coming up? What about class pictures? It’s good to plan ahead!

How often are bands changed out?

At every adjustment visit, which occurs every 6 to 8 weeks, we change out colored braces bands. This means, you can select a new color scheme at every visit (though you don’t have to change the color scheme). For a faster visit, plan ahead of time which colors you want.

Why are elastics changed?

Have you ever noticed how elastic-waisted pants become stretched out over time? Braces elastics are no different. To maintain the pressure required to move your teeth, elastics must be swapped out at every adjustment appointment.

Schedule Your Colored Braces Consultation 

Do you want colored braces? If you now wear or will soon wear traditional orthodontic braces, we’ll be happy to help you show your school spirit or your inner pazazz! Call Harmony Orthodontics now at 832-699-3683 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Wint W. Tun. Located in Tomball, TX, Harmony Orthodontics serves children, teens, and adults. We are accepting new patients now, so give us a call!