No, Braces Do Not Make it More Likely to Be Struck By Lightning! Braces Myths Debunked

No, Braces Do Not Make it More Likely to Be Struck By Lightning! Braces Myths Debunked

Adult with metal braces debunks braces myths

Are you afraid that if you get braces, you will be more likely to get struck by lightning or will no longer be able to travel because your braces will set off metal detectors?!

You may think you know a lot about braces, but there’s a chance that some of the things you believe about braces are not true. We’re here to bust some of the most common myths about braces, so you can be excited to start treatment.

Myth #1 Braces attract lightning.

Statistics reveal that there is a 1 in 500,000 chance that a person without braces will get struck by lightning in any given year (CDC). People with braces also have a 1 in 500,000 chance of getting hit by lightning!

The numbers don’t lie, but staying inside during a storm will significantly reduce your chances of being a victim of a lightning strike, whether you have braces or not. Your braces aren’t lightning rods and won’t increase your chances of getting struck by lightning.

Myth #2 Braces set off metal detectors

You may be worried that you are more likely to get stopped at airport security and TSA will have to investigate your metal braces. You don’t have to worry, because braces are made from titanium and other lightweight alloys that metal detectors will not pick up.

Metal detectors are calibrated to detect larger volumes of metal anyway. Otherwise, they would be lighting up and sounding alarms at every belt buckle and zipper!

Myth # 3 Braces hurt.

People wanting to straighten their teeth are naturally concerned that they will have to endure pain when wearing braces. If this were true, very few people would be going through the treatment! This is one of the more harmful myths about braces that are based on exaggerations rather than reality.

Braces are a new sensation for the mouth, and it will take a little time to get used to them. Some tenderness is expected, but constant pain is not a sacrifice you’ll need to make for a beautiful smile—especially at Jupiter Orthodontics.

Each time you have your braces adjusted, you may experience some minor soreness, but before long, you’ll get used to the new sensations! A beautiful smile is totally worth the small level of discomfort.

Myth # 4 You can’t play wind instruments with braces.

We think this myth about braces may have come about as an exaggeration of the adjustment phase. Musicians who play wind instruments will still be able to play! You can play any instrument with braces.

However, there may be a small adjustment period as you get used to the new position on your mouthpiece. Even though you will need a little practice getting used to the braces, it won’t be long before you are making beautiful music again.

Myth # 5 Braces are only for teens and kids.

This myth about braces has no basis in reality. It may have come about because young children’s and teens’ mouths are still developing, so the teeth are easier to manipulate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have braces as an adult. It might take a little longer, but we can still straighten adult teeth. A few months of braces for a beautiful smile for the rest of your life is all it will take.

Myth # 6 You need to have a mouth full of metal to get straight teeth

Some patients are concerned about their looks when they consider braces. The truth about braces is – we give you options! Like most technology, braces have advanced over the years. Thin but strong brackets mean that even traditional metal braces are less noticeable than ever before.

At Jupiter Orthodontics, we offer self-ligating, tie-less braces and clear braces that work without elastic or rubber bands. We also have InBrace braces that are positioned to the back surfaces of your teeth for a completely incognito look!

Myth # 7 You can only get straight teeth with braces

While traditional braces are a popular option, they are not the only teeth-straightening solution available. You can brighten your smile with Invisalign® clear aligners, custom-made from high-quality transparent plastic and almost invisible when they’re in place.

We’ll help you make the best decision for your smile when you book your complimentary consultation.

Ready to explore your options?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! We love to hear from you. We’re here to guide you through your treatment process, from your very first visit, to your last appointment.

If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Jupiter, FL, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.