Myth 1: Anyone who sells aligners is an orthodontist.

False. While some general dentists or online companies may offer aligners, only an orthodontist who has undergone additional years of training can call themselves an orthodontic specialist. Attempting to straighten teeth without proper expertise can lead to permanent damage to the teeth, face, and jaw. Various orthodontic associations exclusively admit orthodontists into their membership. Only those who have completed dental school and successfully finished an additional three years of specialized education can refer to themselves as "orthodontists." When you choose Liderdent for your orthodontics, you can be certain that you have selected a specialist, an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics, who possesses the necessary skills and expertise.

Myth 2: Orthodontists are very expensive.

Orthodontists are healthcare providers who carefully tailor treatment plans for their patients, and as a result, their fees reflect the complexity of each individual case. From simple cases that may require only a few months of treatment to highly challenging cases that can take a couple of years, the benefits provided by an orthodontic treatment specialist are highly valuable. Most orthodontists offer free consultations and flexible payment plans, and they are willing to work with their patients to help them achieve a beautiful smile.

Myth 3: A visit to the orthodontist is not necessary to achieve straight teeth.

No visits mean no monitoring, which means no results.

The health of your gums, teeth, and jaw cannot be monitored virtually or without visiting an orthodontist. Even the most carefully planned treatments require diligent supervision to ensure proper care. The good news is that today's technology has allowed for longer intervals between appointments, ranging from 8 to 10 weeks. Visits are shorter, and intervals are longer, but without the supervision of a specialist, treatment is not possible. Neither a medical doctor nor a dental assistant can monitor your treatment.

Although some examinations can be conducted through virtual consultations using telemedicine advancements, this only applies to a very small number of cases. For crucial moments in the therapy, your orthodontist remains responsible.

Myth 4: Orthodontic treatment takes several years.

Orthodontic treatment requires careful, controlled movement of the teeth to ensure their proper shifting through the bone. From simple cases that may take only a few months to the most complex cases that may take longer, your orthodontist has the knowledge, experience, and skill to achieve excellent results in the shortest amount of time, usually around 22 months. Tooth movement should not be too fast as it can lead to damage to the bone and the roots of the teeth being moved. Caution should always be exercised when shifting teeth. There are surgical procedures available during orthodontic treatment that can accelerate the process by up to 8 months.

Myth 5: Orthodontic treatment is purely cosmetic.

Orthodontic treatment is much more than visibly straightening teeth, which is evident to almost every patient. Improved appearance is the most obvious outcome of orthodontic therapy. However, when teeth and jaws are aligned, it also means improved oral function, which represents an additional benefit and advantage of treatment. A beautiful smile is an external sign of good oral health and establishes the foundation for overall well-being. Orthodontists play an important role in patient health that is often underestimated. I often say that orthodontists are like architects, and much depends on them.

Myth 6: Orthodontists only offer metal braces.

Orthodontists spend years studying and learning about tooth movement, which makes them professionally qualified to use all available tools to provide the best possible care for their patients. This includes metal and ceramic brackets, aligners, as well as a range of other additional orthodontic elements (designed to move teeth) that can be incorporated into the treatment. Orthodontists are craftsmen with different tools. An orthodontist should know how to correct all types of anomalies using any tool. They possess the expertise to provide the best service at the right time and achieve the best results in the most appropriate way.

Myth 7: Orthodontic treatment is only for children.

False. Patients of all age groups, young and old, can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Age is not a limitation when it comes to obtaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Since adults may have more complex cases due to previous dental work or gum disease, it is important that their treatment is provided by an orthodontist who has the knowledge, expertise, and experience to achieve the best results in adulthood. Conducting treatment for children and adults is not the same. The process is much more complex for adult patients and requires more knowledge and skill. Although patients often seek treatment when it's already too late, it is crucial to recognize the appropriate time to start therapy in children.