Common Myths About Braces Debunked

Aug 29, 2025

A portrait of a smiling teenage boy with curly hair and braces, wearing headphones and a blue shirt. He is standing outside in a city with friends, looking directly at the camera. The image captures a positive and authentic moment of youth and friendship.
Braces help straighten teeth and improve oral health, but many people still carry false ideas about orthodontic treatment. These myths can cause unnecessary worry for parents and kids. Today, we’ll clear up the most common braces myths and explain what braces actually do. Whether you’re considering braces for your child or thinking about adult braces, this guide will help you understand the facts.

Myth 1: Braces Always Hurt

Braces help straighten teeth and improve oral health, but many people still carry false ideas about orthodontic treatment. These myths can cause unnecessary worry for parents and kids. Today, we’ll clear up the most common braces myths and explain what braces actually do. Whether you’re considering braces for your child or thinking about adult braces, this guide will help you understand the facts.

Have questions or concerns about your child starting braces?

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Myth 2: Braces Take Years to Work

Some parents avoid braces because they believe the treatment takes forever. In reality, most patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months. The exact length depends on the severity of the alignment problem and how well the patient follows care instructions.

For minor issues, treatment might be finished in less than a year. Complex cases may take a little longer. But braces are not a lifelong commitment. With regular checkups and good home care, most kids and teens finish on time.

cheerful teenage girl with braces smiles and shows likes with her hands on a pink isolated background, child shows thumbs up and recommends

Myth 3: Braces Are Just for Looks

Braces do more than create straight smiles. They fix bite problems, reduce overcrowding, and improve jaw alignment. These changes make it easier to chew, speak, and clean teeth.

Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to brush and floss, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment makes daily care easier and helps protect long-term dental health. So while braces do improve appearance, their main job is to support healthy mouths.

Myth 4: You Can’t Eat Your Favorite Foods

Braces do require some changes in eating habits, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite meals. The key is to avoid foods that are too hard, sticky, or chewy. These foods can damage wires or get stuck in brackets.
it’s best to skip:
  • Gum and sticky candy (like caramel or taffy)
  • Hard foods (like popcorn, nuts, or ice)
  • Crunchy items (like raw carrots or hard taco shells)
Most foods are still okay with minor adjustments. For example, instead of biting into an apple, cut it into small pieces. Soft foods like pasta, rice, yogurt, and smoothies are all braces-friendly and easy to enjoy.

Learn about what other foods are good to eat and which to avoid when you have braces in our video here:

Myth 5: Braces Will Set Off Metal Detectors

This is a funny one, but it’s not true. Braces are made from lightweight materials like stainless steel and ceramic, which are not strong enough to trigger metal detectors at airports, schools, or concerts.

So whether your child is traveling or heading to a big event, there’s no need to worry. Braces won’t cause problems during security checks.

Close-up of airport security gates. Metal detector scan. High quality photo

Myth 6: Braces Weaken Your Teeth

Braces do not make your teeth weaker. In fact, they help create a stronger bite by aligning the teeth and jaw correctly. What’s important is keeping teeth clean while wearing braces. Food and plaque can get trapped around brackets and wires. If left uncleaned, this can lead to decay or gum problems. That’s why brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for cleanings are essential during orthodontic treatment. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we teach kids how to care for their teeth with braces. We also offer regular checkups and cleanings to keep everything on track.

Myth 7: Only Traditional Metal Braces Work

Metal braces are common, but they are not the only option. Many patients now choose other types of braces to fit their needs and comfort. Some of these include:

  • Ceramic braces: These work like metal braces but are clear or tooth-colored, making them less visible.
  • Clear aligners: These are removable trays that straighten teeth without brackets or wires. These may be a good option for older teens or adults with mild alignment needs.

Our orthodontic team will review all available options during your consultation. We’ll help you decide what’s best based on your child’s age, dental needs, and lifestyle.

Myth 8: Braces Are Only for Kids

Braces are not just for kids or teens. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic care to improve their smiles. Adult braces are effective and safe, and many adults see great results in just one to two years.

It’s never too late to straighten your teeth. Whether you’re fixing an old issue or starting fresh, orthodontic treatment can improve your health and confidence. At Palmetto Kids Dentistry, we welcome adult patients and offer flexible scheduling options to fit busy routines.

Face of a young woman with braces on her teeth
Braces have changed a lot over the years. They are more comfortable, more effective, and more flexible than ever. Still, old myths continue to cause confusion and fear. By learning the facts, you can make better decisions for your child’s dental health…and your own.

At Palmetto Kids General Dentistry and Orthodontics in Summerville, SC, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether your child needs a checkup or a full orthodontic plan, our team makes the process easy and friendly. We offer braces for kids, teens, and adults in a fun, relaxed environment.

Call 843.284.6497 to schedule your orthodontic consultation today.

We accept most major insurance plans and provide care in both English and Spanish.

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