I’m super cautious with add-ons, mostly because my insurance barely covers basics. But I’ve also had moments where skipping something (like fluoride) cost me more in the long run.
That’s pretty much my whole braces journey in a nutshell. When I first got them, I was so overwhelmed by all the “extras” they suggested—special brushes, rinses, fluoride gels, you name it. It felt like every appointment there was something new they wanted me to buy, and honestly, my first instinct was to say no to everything because of the price.
But after I skipped the fluoride rinse for a few months, I started getting these white spots on my teeth (which apparently is decalcification). My ortho showed me photos and explained what was happening, and that’s when it clicked that sometimes those add-ons actually do have a point. Now I try to weigh things out: if they can show me proof or explain why it matters, I’ll consider it.
Still, dental care costs are wild. Even in medieval times with their “braces,” at least they didn’t have to deal with insurance paperwork... though I guess having metal wires tied around your teeth probably wasn’t exactly a bargain either.
But after I skipped the fluoride rinse for a few months, I started getting these white spots on my teeth (which apparently is decalcification). My ortho showed me photos and explained what was happening, and that’s when it clicked that sometimes those add-ons actually do have a point.
I can really relate to this. When I started braces, I kind of rolled my eyes at the “special” toothpaste and mouthwash recommendations. I figured regular brushing was enough. Fast forward six months, and I noticed my teeth looked patchy in certain lights—turns out, early decalcification too. My orthodontist basically gave me a mini science lesson on how braces trap food and plaque, so you need all the help you can get.
I still think some of the add-ons are overkill (like those tiny dental mirrors—never used mine), but the fluoride gel actually made a difference for me. It’s frustrating how much of this stuff isn’t covered by insurance, though. Sometimes it feels like you’re paying just to avoid future bills.
And yeah, medieval “braces” sound like a nightmare. But at least they didn’t have to budget for $12 bottles of mouthwash every month… small mercies, I guess.
Totally get where you’re coming from—those “extras” felt like a scam to me at first, too. But yeah, after my own run-in with those weird white spots, I caved and started using the fluoride trays (even though they taste like sadness). Insurance not covering half this stuff is wild, though. It’s almost like they want us to end up with medieval teeth. At least we don’t have to walk around with bits of catgut tied to our molars… small wins, I guess.
I get what you mean about the fluoride trays, but honestly, I skipped them because my dentist kept adding more and more “recommended” things. It’s like, where do you draw the line? I started stressing every time I saw another charge on my bill. I brush and floss like a maniac now instead. Maybe I’m rolling the dice, but I just can’t justify spending extra when insurance barely helps. Sometimes I wonder if some of these “extras” are just ways to pad the bill...
I totally get what you’re saying about the endless “extras” at the dentist. I remember when cleanings were just cleanings, but now it feels like every visit comes with a new suggestion—fluoride trays, fancy mouth rinses, whitening, sealants... It adds up real quick. I’m on a fixed income these days, so I have to be choosy. My dentist is decent, but sometimes I wonder if they’re just following a script from the insurance companies or the dental supply reps.
Funny thing is, I skipped the fluoride trays too. Never had ‘em growing up and managed to keep my teeth mostly intact—though I did lose a molar in my 40s, but that was more from biting down on popcorn kernels than anything else. I just stick to brushing and flossing (probably too much, if you ask my gums). My insurance barely covers the basics, so unless something’s really necessary, I usually pass.
I do wonder sometimes if we’re overcomplicating things. Like, people in the past didn’t have all these treatments, yet some of them kept their teeth well into old age. Then again, I guess a lot of folks didn’t... Maybe it’s a bit of luck too.
Has anyone actually noticed a difference after using those fluoride trays or other “add-ons”? Or is it more peace of mind? Sometimes I think half the battle is just showing up for the cleaning and not skipping appointments, but maybe I’m just old school that way.
