IT IS PERFECTLY NORMAL for patients with a brand new set of braces to feel self-conscious. You are certainly looking forward to straightening your crooked teeth but still may be a bit hesitant about sharing your stainless steel smile with the world. Let’s discuss some ways to get over those under-confident feelings in the course of your treatment, shall we?
Keep Your Braces Clean!
Keeping your braces sparkly clean is by far the most essential part of your treatment. Brush after every meal to reduce food particles and plaque sticking to your enamel, brackets, and archwires. Brushing and flossing not only to prevent cavities but there is absolutely nobody that wants to see food stuck in your wires—especially you!
Carry a small bag of essentials such as a travel toothbrush, floss, a small tube of toothpaste, and a pocket mirror to make sure you’re good to go. When you know your teeth and brackets are squeaky clean, you can’t help but feel more confident.
Express Yourself
Traditional metal braces don’t have to be boring. You can accessorize by choosing from a rainbow of rubber band colors to make a fashion statement that’s uniquely you. Show your spirit with school color bands, or celebrate the holidays with festive tones. Wear pink for breast cancer awareness month, or choose shades that do wonders for your coloring.
Whether you go for a bold contrast, a monochromatic vibe, or a “just because I’m in the mood” combo, let your braces showcase your style. Don’t forget you can change that style with every adjustment! If a pop of color in your smile is not your jam, clear ceramic brackets are tooth-colored and blend into your smile.
Smile with Confidence
Nothing looks better than a confident smile. If you’re a little unsure, practicing in the mirror will get you used to seeing your new smile. Give your family and friends a sneak peek before you go public.
You are still you. You are unique. Wearing braces does not change the simple fact that you are a good friend, a student, an athlete, or even a serious adult in a professional setting. Don’t let braces hold you back from the activities you love and the person you are. Act like your old self, and you’ll soon feel that way!
Keep Your Eye On The Prize
Focus on the future, and know that you are achieving the smile of your dreams one day at a time. The period of time spent wearing braces will be worth it. Your smile is one of the most critical elements of expressing yourself and reflecting confidence, so don’t wait for your treatment to be over – smile often and confidently. People will look past the braces and will see your smile shining through.
Be proud that you are making progress in improving your health and appearance. Take care of yourself, and good things will happen! We want your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile as rewarding and as positive as it can be.
At Holmes and Palmer Orthodontics in Charleston, WV, there are many different types of orthodontic treatments to choose. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us about the other treatment plans of lingual braces, ceramic braces, and invisible braces. We can’t wait to meet you.