There are plenty of articles out there that talk about how good you’re going to feel when your braces come off. And while that’s true, this article is more interested in helping you feel good while they’re still on. Before we get dive in, it’s important for you to know that your orthodontist can give you helpful hints as well. If you click here, our special smart tools will give you a list of orthodontists who practice in and around your neighborhood.
Okay, let’s get started.
1. Use advances in orthodontics to your advantage
Namely, Invisalign. These braces have two advantages – they are rarely seen and they work fast. They are made of clear plastic cases or aligners and customized to fit your teeth. Because these invisible aligners need to be replaced every two weeks, it helps to have an orthodontist whose practice is close to where you live or work. (A gentle reminder: we can help you with that if you click here.) Invisalign is also expensive. If you can’t afford them, there are a couple of other options you can try:
Lingual braces are made of metal but they’re positioned inside the teeth which makes them hard to see. Ceramic braces are customized according to the color of your teeth. They’re not as ‘invisible’ as Invisalign but they’re still very subtle.
2. Get creative
If you can only afford traditional metal braces, no problem. There are loads of ways to turn them into a style statement – something worth flaunting, not hiding. Braces are made up of different rubber bands. You can choose whatever colors(s) you like. Because bands can be replaced, you can mix and match them, change them whenever you want and even coordinate them with your outfits.
You can also get colorful brackets. Brackets are the part of your braces that literally fasten to your teeth. You can alternate colors or play with contrast. Keep in mind that unlike bands, brackets can’t be changed. So be careful when you’re choosing your bracket color because you’ll be stuck with it for the next year or two.
You can even request custom-made designs if you want to really stand out.
3. Know how to style yourself
There’s nothing like a great haircut or a new smoky eyeshadow to make you feel confident. We’ve already got a few style tips to make your braces look less noticeable. Click here to read the article.
4. Let celebrities inspire you
Braces are cool. Madonna, Fantasia Burrinho, Gwen Stefani, Tom Cruise have all worn braces proudly in the past. It’s a decent indicator of how much the attitude towards braces has changed, especially given that their career depends to a large extent on how they look. If they can pull it off, so can you.
5. Let non-celebrities inspire you as well
The world is still a cruel place but in some ways, it’s kinder than it used to be. It’s easier for strangers to come together and support one another over shared problems. There are so many support groups available online, as well as documented experiences by people going through exactly what you are.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember the end result: straight teeth and a beautiful smile.
But it’s even more important to remember that your smile is already beautiful. You just need time to realize it.