When Jennifer was considering braces for her teenage daughter, she found herself overwhelmed by conflicting information. Her neighbor insisted that “braces always damage your gums permanently,” while her coworker claimed that “clear aligners work just as well as braces for any problem.” A quick internet search only added to the confusion, with forums full of outdated advice and well-meaning but misinformed opinions.
Jennifer’s experience isn’t unique. Orthodontics is surrounded by persistent myths that can lead to confusion, delays in treatment, or poor decisions about care. Some of these misconceptions have been around for decades, passed down through generations despite being contradicted by modern research. Others are newer myths that have emerged with advancing technology.
The good news? We now have extensive research that separates orthodontic fact from fiction. Let’s explore the most common myths and reveal what the evidence actually shows.
Myth 1: “Everyone Can Achieve Perfect Teeth Contact”
The Reality: Not all individuals can or should expect perfect occlusion between all opposing teeth. Natural variation in tooth and jaw size is completely normal¹.
This myth puts unrealistic pressure on both patients and orthodontists to achieve an impossible standard. While orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve function and appearance, the goal isn’t to make every bite identical. Each person’s anatomy is unique, and a successful orthodontic result means achieving the best possible function and aesthetics for that individual’s specific situation.
Some patients have naturally larger or smaller teeth, varying jaw sizes, or other anatomical factors that make “perfect” contact unrealistic or even undesirable. A skilled orthodontist focuses on creating a functional, healthy bite that works well for each patient’s unique needs.
Myth 2: “Orthodontic Treatment Damages Your Gums”
The Reality: When properly managed, orthodontic treatment does not negatively impact periodontal (gum) health. In fact, it often improves it².
This persistent myth causes unnecessary fear and prevents people from seeking treatment that could significantly improve their oral health. The confusion often arises because some patients experience temporary gum inflammation during treatment due to difficulty cleaning around braces, not because the treatment itself damages the gums.
Research consistently shows that orthodontic treatment, when combined with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, can actually improve gum health by making teeth easier to clean and reducing areas where bacteria can accumulate. Even patients with existing gum disease can safely undergo orthodontic treatment with proper coordination between their orthodontist and periodontist.
Myth 3: “Clear Aligners Work Just as Well as Braces for Every Case”
The Reality: While clear aligners are excellent for many patients, research shows they generally result in less optimal outcomes compared to fixed braces for complex cases³.
The marketing appeal of “invisible” orthodontics has led to the widespread belief that aligners can handle any orthodontic problem as effectively as traditional braces. However, clinical evidence tells a different story. Aligners excel at certain types of tooth movements, particularly simple alignment issues, but they have limitations when it comes to complex bite corrections, severe rotations, or significant jaw discrepancies.
This doesn’t mean aligners aren’t valuable – they’re an excellent choice for appropriate cases and offer significant advantages in terms of comfort, aesthetics, and oral hygiene maintenance. The key is proper case selection and realistic expectations about what each treatment option can achieve.
Myth 4: “Braces Interrupt Root Development in Young Teeth”
The Reality: Teeth with developing roots generally reach normal root length after orthodontic treatment, with no significant harm to root development⁴.
This myth has caused many parents to delay necessary treatment for their children, sometimes missing optimal treatment windows. The concern stems from early observations that weren’t properly controlled for normal variations in root development.
Modern research shows that orthodontic forces, when properly applied, do not interfere with normal root formation in developing teeth. In fact, early orthodontic intervention can often prevent more serious problems that would require more extensive treatment later in life.
Myth 5: “You Don’t Need Retainers After Braces”
The Reality: Most patients need retainers to maintain their results after orthodontic treatment⁵.
Perhaps no myth is more costly than this one. The belief that teeth will naturally stay in their new positions after braces are removed has led to countless cases of relapse, requiring additional treatment to correct.
Teeth have a natural tendency to return toward their original positions throughout life. This isn’t a failure of treatment – it’s a normal biological process. Retainers work by maintaining the new tooth positions while the surrounding bone and tissues adapt to the changes. The type and duration of retainer wear varies by case, but some form of retention is typically necessary to preserve orthodontic results.
Myth 6: “Widening the Lower Jaw Always Causes Future Crowding”
The Reality: There’s no strong evidence that increasing mandibular intercanine width causes future crowding. Other factors are more important in determining long-term stability⁶.
This myth has influenced treatment decisions for decades, sometimes leading orthodontists to avoid beneficial treatment approaches out of fear of future relapse. However, research shows that the relationship between intercanine width and crowding is much more complex than originally thought.
Factors like facial growth patterns, oral habits, and individual tissue response play larger roles in long-term stability than specific measurements like intercanine width. This understanding has freed orthodontists to focus on achieving optimal function and aesthetics while using appropriate retention strategies to maintain results.
Myth 7: “Traditional Retainers Are Always the Best Choice”
The Reality: The usefulness of traditional removable retainers is being questioned, and newer designs may be more suitable for modern orthodontic treatment⁷.
The classic Hawley retainer, with its metal wire and acrylic design, was once the gold standard for retention. However, advances in materials and our understanding of retention have led to new options that may be more effective for certain situations.
Fixed retainers, clear retainer shells, and hybrid designs each have specific advantages depending on the case. The best retainer choice depends on factors like the type of movement that was achieved, patient compliance, and individual risk factors for relapse.
Myth 8: “Orthodontic Treatment Is Only About Straight Teeth”
The Reality: Modern orthodontic treatment improves bite function, facial aesthetics, oral health, and overall quality of life⁸.
This oversimplified view of orthodontics misses the comprehensive health benefits that proper treatment can provide. While straight teeth are certainly an important outcome, orthodontic treatment addresses:
- Bite function – improving how teeth work together for efficient chewing
- Facial aesthetics – enhancing overall facial harmony and proportion
- Oral health – making teeth easier to clean and reducing disease risk
- Airway function – potentially improving breathing and sleep quality
- Speech – correcting issues related to tooth and jaw position
- Self-confidence – providing psychological benefits from an improved smile
Myth 9: “Faster Treatment Is Always Better”
The Reality: Most accelerated orthodontic treatment methods lack high-quality evidence for effectiveness and safety, and may not address all functional and aesthetic needs⁹.
The appeal of “quick fixes” in orthodontics has led to numerous products and procedures promising faster results. However, research shows that teeth move at a biologically determined rate, and attempts to dramatically accelerate this process often have limited effectiveness and may carry increased risks.
Some acceleration techniques, like corticotomies, can temporarily speed up tooth movement, but the effects are short-lived and the evidence quality is generally low. More importantly, rushing treatment may not allow adequate time to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic results.
The Importance of Evidence-Based Care
Understanding these myths and the research that contradicts them highlights why evidence-based orthodontic care is so important. When treatment decisions are based on solid research rather than outdated beliefs or marketing claims, patients get better results with fewer complications.
How to Avoid Misinformation
Consult with Qualified Professionals: Board-certified orthodontists stay current with research and can provide evidence-based guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Question Absolute Statements: Be wary of anyone who makes absolute claims about orthodontic treatment. Effective treatment is highly individualized.
Seek Multiple Opinions: For complex cases, consulting with more than one orthodontist can provide valuable perspective.
Ask About Research: Don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist about the evidence supporting their recommended treatment approach.
The Evolution of Orthodontic Understanding
Many of these myths persist because orthodontics, like all fields of medicine, continues to evolve. What we believed to be true 20 or 30 years ago may not align with current research and understanding. This is actually a positive development – it means the field is advancing and improving based on new evidence.
Some procedures that were once considered standard may now be questioned, while new techniques that were once controversial may now be supported by solid research. This evolution requires both patients and practitioners to stay open to new information and base decisions on the best available evidence.
What This Means for Your Treatment
Understanding the difference between orthodontic myths and facts can help you make better decisions about treatment. It can also help you have more productive conversations with your orthodontist and set realistic expectations for your results.
Remember that effective orthodontic treatment is highly individualized. What works best for one person may not be ideal for another, even if their problems appear similar. Your orthodontist should evaluate your specific situation and recommend treatment based on your unique needs, goals, and circumstances.
Looking Forward
As orthodontic research continues to advance, we’ll likely see some current beliefs challenged and new understanding emerge. The key is to remain committed to evidence-based care while staying open to new developments that can improve patient outcomes.
The orthodontic profession’s commitment to research and evidence-based practice means that patients today have access to more effective, comfortable, and predictable treatment than ever before. By understanding the myths and focusing on the facts, patients can make informed decisions and achieve the best possible results.
The Bottom Line
Orthodontic myths persist, but they don’t have to influence your treatment decisions. By understanding what current research actually shows, you can separate fact from fiction and work with your orthodontist to achieve optimal results.
Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or a family member, focus on evidence-based care provided by qualified professionals. Ask questions, seek information from reliable sources, and remember that effective orthodontic treatment is about much more than just straight teeth – it’s about achieving optimal function, health, and quality of life.
Don’t let outdated myths prevent you from exploring orthodontic treatment that could significantly improve your oral health and overall well-being. The reality of modern orthodontics is far more positive and effective than many of the persistent myths suggest.
References
- Van Der Linden, F. (2008). Sheldon Friel memorial lecture 2007: myths and legends in orthodontics. European Journal of Orthodontics, 30(5), 449-68. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjn048
- Martín, C., Celis, B., Ambrosio, N., Bollaín, J., Antonoglou, G., & Figuero, E. (2021). Effect of orthodontic therapy in periodontitis and non-periodontitis patients: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Periodontology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13487
- Papageorgiou, S., Koletsi, D., Iliadi, A., Peltomaki, T., & Eliades, T. (2019). Treatment outcome with orthodontic aligners and fixed appliances: a systematic review with meta-analyses. European Journal of Orthodontics. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjz094
- Dodeja, T., Alsulaiman, A., Will, L., Saade, M., & Motro, M. (2025). Orthodontic Forces Interrupt Root Formation in Immature Teeth: Myth or Fact? A Pilot Study. Turkish Journal of Orthodontics, 38, 12-19. https://doi.org/10.4274/TurkJOrthod.2025.2024.142
- Wouters, C., Lamberts, T., Kuijpers-Jagtman, A., & Renkema, A. (2019). Development of a clinical practice guideline for orthodontic retention. Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research, 22, 69-80. https://doi.org/10.1111/ocr.12302
- Van Der Linden, F. (2008). Sheldon Friel memorial lecture 2007: myths and legends in orthodontics. European Journal of Orthodontics, 30(5), 449-68. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjn048
- Fleming, P., Springate, S., & Chate, R. (2015). Myths and realities in orthodontics. BDJ, 218, 105-110. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2015.41
- Mathew, R., Sathasivam, H., Mohamednor, L., & Yugaraj, P. (2023). Knowledge, attitude and practice of patients towards orthodontic treatment. BMC Oral Health, 23. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-023-02780-y
- Dreyer, C., & Miles, P. (2017). Accelerated orthodontic treatment ‐ what’s the evidence? Australian Dental Journal, 62, 63–70. https://doi.org/10.1111/adj.12477
