FEELING SELF-CONSCIOUS IS PERFECTLY NORMAL for patients with a brand new set of braces. You certainly look forward to straightening out your crooked teeth but still may be hesitant about sharing your metalworks with the world. Let's discuss how to get over those under-confident feelings during your orthodontic treatment.
Keep Your Braces Squeaky Clean!
Keeping your braces sparkly clean is the best thing you can do as part of your orthodontic treatment. After every meal, brushing and flossing reduce food particles and plaque that can stick to your enamel, brackets, and wires. Good oral hygiene prevents cavities, making it easier for others to be around you. There is absolutely no one who wants to talk with someone with food stuck to their wires!
Dr. Robert Bruno recommends carrying a small bag of essentials such as a toothbrush, floss, and a small tube of toothpaste. Be sure to include a small mirror to make sure you're good to go at all times. When you know your teeth and metal brackets are squeaky clean, you can't help but feel more confident.
Express Your Unique Self
Traditional metal braces don't have to be boring. You can choose from a rainbow of elastic band colors to make a fashion statement that's uniquely you. Show your school spirit with school colors, or celebrate the holidays with festive tones. Wear green for St. Patrick's Day, or choose shades that bring out the color of your eyes.
Go big and bold; try a monochromatic vibe or a "just because" color combo. Showcase your style with every adjustment! If you are an adult patient and a pop of color doesn't seem professional, clear braces made of ceramic material are tooth-colored and blend in while they move the teeth.
Smile with Confidence
Unabashed confidence and a big smile is probably the most attractive thing around. If you feel a little unsure about your braces, try practicing. Practicing in a mirror will help you get used to seeing and feeling your new smile.
You are still the unique you. Wearing braces does not change the person you are regardless of your age. Don't let braces hold you back from your life and the activities you love. Be yourself, and you'll soon feel that way!
Remember the Final Goal
Focus on the future, knowing that you are getting a little bit closer to having straight teeth and the smile of your dreams each day. This short period spent wearing braces will be worth it in the long run. Your smile is critical in expressing yourself. Don't wait for your orthodontic treatment to be over – smile confidently every day. Your friends and family will look past the braces and see your smile shining through.
Robert W. Bruno, DDS, offers many types of braces in Woodside, NY. You have your choice of traditional metal braces, self-ligating braces, ceramic braces, virtually invisible plastic aligners, or lingual braces.
If you are ready to straighten your teeth, don't hesitate to contact us to learn more about all the types of appliances available. We can't wait to meet you.
