Common Braces Myths Busted by a Portland Orthodontist

There’s a lot of talk out there about braces, and not all of it is true. From social media “hacks” to old-fashioned stories passed down by friends or family, braces seem to attract more myths than any other dental treatment. At Garfinkle Orthodontics, we hear them every day, and we’re here to set the record straight. Whether you’re a teen about to start your first round of braces or an adult thinking it’s too late, these are the real facts behind the most common braces myths.

Myth 1: “Braces Hurt All the Time”

This is one of the oldest myths around. While you may feel some pressure when braces are first applied or adjusted, the discomfort is temporary and usually mild. Modern systems like Damon Braces use lighter wires and smoother brackets that move teeth more gently and efficiently.

Most patients describe the feeling as a tightness or dull ache for a few days, which can be managed easily with over-the-counter pain relief or a cool treat like ice cream. After that, you’ll likely forget you even have braces.

Fun Fact: Early versions of braces in the 1800s actually used gold wire. It looked great, but gold was too soft to move teeth effectively. Thankfully, orthodontics has come a long way since then.

Myth 2: “You Can’t Eat Anything with Braces”

We hear this one all the time, especially from teens who worry they’ll have to say goodbye to their favorite snacks. The truth is, you can still enjoy most foods—you just need to make small adjustments. For example, crunchy foods like apples can be sliced, and pizza crusts can be softened or cut into bite-sized pieces.

The key is to avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can bend wires or pop off brackets. Everything else is fair game with a little creativity. Our patients are often surprised by how much they can still eat while wearing braces.

Myth 3: “Braces Take Forever to Work”

Braces may not be an overnight fix, but treatment times today are much faster than they used to be. The average time for braces is around 18 to 24 months, depending on your specific needs. Systems like Damon Braces can shorten this even further by reducing friction and allowing teeth to move more naturally.

We’ve had patients finish treatment faster than expected simply because they followed their orthodontic instructions carefully. Regular checkups, good brushing habits, and avoiding damage to your brackets all help keep your treatment on schedule.

Can Braces Work Faster with AcceleDent?

Some patients at Garfinkle Orthodontics use a small device called AcceleDent to help their braces or Invisalign work even faster. It looks a little like a mouthpiece and uses gentle vibrations to stimulate the bone around your teeth, allowing them to move more efficiently. The process feels like a light massage for your mouth and takes only a few minutes each day.

Studies have shown that AcceleDent can shorten treatment time by as much as 30 percent when used correctly. It’s completely safe, comfortable, and can be used alongside both Damon Braces and Invisalign. For patients who want to see results sooner, it’s an excellent option worth discussing during your consultation.

Myth 4: “Braces Are Only for Teenagers”

It’s true that many people start braces in their teens, but adults are now one of the fastest-growing groups in orthodontics. Whether you’re 16 or 60, your teeth can move safely with the right guidance from an orthodontist. Adult patients often choose Damon Clear Braces or Invisalign for a more discreet look that fits their lifestyle.

We see many adults in Portland who start treatment for functional reasons, not just aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, last longer, and can even help with jaw or bite discomfort. It’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted.

Myth 5: “Braces Will Make My Teeth Weak or Loose”

This one sounds scary, but it’s not true. Braces actually strengthen your smile by improving the alignment of your teeth and the health of your gums. Teeth can feel a little loose while they’re moving into place, but that’s completely normal and temporary. Once they settle, they’ll be stronger and more stable than before.

In fact, leaving alignment problems untreated can lead to tooth wear, gum recession, and bone loss over time. Braces correct these issues before they become serious.

Myth 6: “Everyone Will Notice My Braces”

This might have been true back when braces were bigger and more noticeable, but modern systems are sleek and subtle. Damon Braces use smaller brackets and thinner wires that are designed to blend in with your smile, while Invisalign is almost invisible. Most people will never realize you are in treatment unless you tell them.

For those who want the power of braces with a more discreet look, there’s also Damon Clear Braces. They use transparent brackets that are strong, stain resistant, and nearly invisible in photos or in person.

Teens often use braces to show off their personality by choosing fun band colors that match school spirit or holidays, while many adults prefer clear options that keep their smile looking natural throughout treatment. Either way, your smile will always be your best accessory.

Myth 7: “I’ll Have to Wear Braces for Years Before Seeing a Difference”

Another myth bites the dust. You’ll usually start seeing small changes in just a few weeks. Your bite will feel different, teeth will look more aligned, and by the halfway mark, most people can already see a major transformation. It’s one of the most exciting parts of the process, and we love celebrating those milestones with our patients at Garfinkle Orthodontics.

Did You Know?

The word “orthodontics” comes from the Greek words “orthos” (meaning straight) and “odous” (meaning tooth). The practice has existed in some form for over 2,000 years. Even ancient philosophers wrote about the importance of a balanced smile.

Final Thoughts

Braces aren’t something to fear—they’re a proven way to create a healthy, confident smile that lasts. With today’s technology, orthodontic treatment is faster, more comfortable, and easier to fit into your life than ever before. Don’t let myths stop you from making one of the best investments you can make in yourself or your child.