When it comes to straightening teeth, there’s no shortage of opinions, advice, and—let’s be honest—myths floating around. From movies to memes to "a friend of a friend" stories, it's easy to get misled about what braces and aligners actually do.
As a modern dental clinic that sees patients from all walks of life, we’re here to clear the air. Let’s bust the most common myths about orthodontic treatments, so you can make an informed choice with confidence and a smile.
Myth 1: Braces Are Only for Teenagers
Reality: Orthodontic treatment has no age limit! More adults than ever are choosing braces and aligners to improve their smile, bite, and confidence. In fact, adult cases now account for nearly one in three orthodontic patients.
Whether you’re 16 or 60, it’s never too late to invest in your smile.
Myth 2: Braces Are Painful and Unbearable
Reality: Modern braces are much more comfortable than the old-school versions. While you might feel some tightness after adjustments, it’s usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet.
Aligners, like Invisalign, are even gentler and cause minimal discomfort—think of them as a small hug for your teeth.
Myth 3: Aligners Can Fix Any Orthodontic Issue
Reality: Clear aligners are amazing, but they’re not magic. They work best for mild to moderate cases of crowding, spacing, or bite issues. For complex corrections, traditional braces might still be your best bet.
That’s why a proper evaluation by a qualified orthodontist is crucial. (Spoiler: your favorite binge-worthy YouTube dentist can’t do this)
Myth 4: You Can Eat Anything With Aligners
Reality: Technically yes—but only after you take them out. Aligners must be removed during meals, which makes eating simpler than with braces, but you’ll still need to brush before putting them back in to avoid trapping food and bacteria.
With braces, certain foods (like sticky candy or hard nuts) are off-limits, but the right guidance helps you adapt easily.
Myth 5: Braces Mean Poor Oral Hygiene
Reality: Not if you follow the routine! Braces require more effort when brushing and flossing, but it's totally doable with tools like water flossers, interdental brushes, and good technique.
In our clinic, we make sure every patient is educated and confident in caring for their teeth during treatment.
Myth 6: Braces or Aligners Are Too Expensive
Reality: Orthodontic treatment is an investment, yes—but it’s often more affordable than people think. Most clinics (ours included) offer flexible payment plans and insurance options.
Plus, a healthy bite and properly aligned teeth can prevent more costly dental problems later in life.
Myth 7: Aligners Work Faster Than Braces
Reality: Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case—not the tool. In some cases, aligners may be quicker; in others, braces are more efficient. Trust your orthodontist to recommend what’s right for your timeline.
Myth 8: Braces Will Ruin My Social Life
Reality: We promise, nobody is staring at your teeth more than you are. Braces today come in tooth-colored ceramics, and aligners are virtually invisible. Confidence comes from how you feel, not what’s on your teeth.
And hey, those before-and-after glow-ups? Worth every selfie ?.
Myth 9: I Can DIY My Own Orthodontic Treatment
Reality: Please, no. "Mail-order aligners" or TikTok hacks can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw. Orthodontics involves more than just moving teeth—your bone structure, bite alignment, and jaw health are all involved.
Only a licensed dental professional can safely design your smile.
Myth 10: Once the Braces Are Off, I'm Done Forever
Reality: Retainers are your new best friend. After treatment, your teeth can shift back without them. Wearing your retainers as instructed ensures that your new smile stays exactly where it should be—picture perfect!
A Note from our Team
At Dental Surgeons clinic, we believe that every smile has a story, and no two treatment plans are alike. Our lead dentist, Dr. Aamir Rafiq, is known for his expertise in orthodontics and his warm, patient-centered approach. Whether you're curious about aligners, worried about getting braces, or just need honest answers, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with professionalism, care, and maybe even a few laughs along the journey.
Get Ready to book your Appointment:
Clinic Address: 10Q - Dr. Mateen Fatima road, Gulberg 2, Lahore, Pakistan
Call or Whatsapp: +92 300 414 7704
Final Thoughts
Don’t let outdated myths stop you from achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you go the route of classic braces or sleek aligners, modern orthodontics offers safe, effective, and life-changing solutions for people of all ages.
Have questions? Curious if you’re a candidate for aligners or braces? Reach out to our team and take the first step toward your healthiest, happiest smile yet.
