How To Flaunt Your Braces Instead Of Fearing Them

So you’re getting braces and you’re in college or already working. Braces that are practically invisible are always an option but hey, you can also choose braces that make a fashion statement. There are loads of stylish, quirky and colorful braces out there.

Braces that are practically invisible are always an option but hey, Modern braces are stylish, quirky and colorful. Here are some tips to help you get creative.

Use colorful rubber bands. As you probably know, braces are made up of lots of little rubber bands (known as elastics) and these days, they’re available in practically every colour under the sun. Get your favourite, colour-coordinate with blues and greens or pinks and purples – try a rainbow theme, even. Or glow-in-the-dark elastics.

There are also bands that wrap around individual braces. They’re called ligatures and they are connected to the brackets of your braces. Because they need to be replaced daily, you can choose colors that match your outfit. If you’re looking for something attractive but practical as well, consider getting gray or silver ligatures: they stain less when you eat and drink.

Colorful brackets (brackets are the part that literally fasten to your teeth) are also a great option if you want to flaunt some style. You can alternate two colours on each tooth for the braces themselves, or have one colour on your top teeth and another on your bottom. Don’t be afraid to play with contrasts. These days, you can even ask your orthodontist for tiny designs on the brackets. You can’t change the brackets once you pick them though, so make your decision carefully.

Decorative retainers are available in all kinds of colors and designs. You can decorate yours with flowers, to self-created designs – some people even design their retainers with a photo of their child or pet. Since you have to wear one anyway, you may as well make it your own

But no matter how creative you get, you need to have the right attitude. Speak to your orthodontist or dentist to know your options – there really is no better advisor. (Click here to find one in your neighbourhood.)

Focus on the long-term benefits. You won’t need to wear braces forever and your teeth are going to look gorgeous once they’re done.

It’s also important not to give up your regular activities. If you play sports, for instance, you may need to wear a plastic mouthguard that fits over your braces – but that’s it. Feel free to kiss as well – you may have to go slow at first but we don’t need to tell you that slow is good. The thing to remember, really, is not to feel self-conscious about things you enjoy just because you have braces.

And at the end of the day, it’s confidence that matters. Remember that and your smile will always be beautiful – no matter what kind of braces you wear.