Thinking about braces for you or your child? Before you start looking at orthodontics, you may want to review some of these surprising facts about braces. Here's what you need to know.

1. Braces Have Changed Over the Years

The traditional style of braces is like this: brackets get attached to your teeth, and wires get stretched between the brackets. Then, the wires get strategically tightened to straighten your teeth.

That's not the only option anymore. Contemporary braces don't have to be metal. Ceramic braces are growing in popularity. Braces also don't have to have the traditional bracket and wire style. Instead, they can consist of retainers or trays like Invisalign.

2. Braces Aren't Just About Looks

When you think of braces, you may think about the importance of a straight, healthy looking smile, and that is important. It can affect your confidence levels, your ability to get a job and multiple other parts of your life.  

However, braces go far beyond style and cosmetics. They can actually help the health of your mouth. When braces correct your bite or eliminate crowding, that helps you avoid worn down enamel and cavities down the road.

3. Some Braces Are Just for Looks

That being said, some braces are just focused on looks, and they don't correct your bite. For example, Six Month Smiles is a type of braces that are designed to work fast, but they only straighten. They don't address bite issues. Ultimately, you need to talk with your orthodontist to ensure that you are getting the right braces for your needs and objectives.

4. Braces Are Just Part of Orthodontic Treatments

When you go in to get your smile straightened, braces are only part of the process. In some cases, your dentist may have to pull teeth, and in other cases, you may need a retainer once the braces get removed. Additionally, you may opt for complementary treatment such as teeth shaving to recontour your teeth, veneers to correct the shape of your teeth, or whitening to make your smile shine after the braces are removed.

5. Braces Are Not Just for Teenagers

While teens may be the group that gets braces the most often, braces are not exclusively for them. Younger kids can get braces, but note that if a young child gets braces, they may need braces again when they are adults. Similarly, adults can also get braces.