The Adult's Guide To Wearing Braces

When most people think about braces, they think about grade-school children or teenagers, not necessarily adults. Though this may be, a growing number of adults are making the decision to correct their smile and wear braces. Given the stigma that goes along with wearing braces, however, many adults find it uncomfortable to wear them. This shouldn't be the case – you can wear braces as an adult and feel confident.

Less Is More

Over the years, the design of braces has transformed. Instead of simple metal braces, you now have the option to have your braces designed in different colors and patterns. However, as an adult, this is one enhancement you don't want to take advantage of.

When it comes to selecting braces, less is more. Stick with a traditional style. Having a rainbow in your mouth will look particularly unprofessional in the workplace. If you're looking for a job, it might even be enough to make a potential employer pass you by. You want to be looked at as a serious adult, not a playful teenager.

Alter Your Mindset

Your smile will undoubtedly look different while you are wearing your braces; however, this doesn't have to be a bad thing. Instead of looking in the mirror and criticizing yourself because you don't look like you did before, embrace your new smile. This is best achieved by altering your mindset.

The more positively you think about your new appearance, the happier you will be. Focusing on the negative will only cause you to see what you perceive to be the bad, distorting your thoughts. If you're still having trouble, focus on the fact that your braces are temporary; once they're removed, your smile will be more beautiful then ever.

Do Something Different

Wearing braces as an adult is all about the adjustment. You have to give yourself time to get used to wearing the braces. Before long, you will forget that you are even wearing them. Consider doing something different in the meantime.

Wear a new shade of lipstick, change your hair color, or maybe cut your hair. Instead of focusing on your braces each time you look in the mirror, you will be more focused on your new addition. If you're worried about other people noticing your braces, your new enhancement will likely draw their attention away as well, allowing you to feel more confident.

Wearing braces as an adult doesn't have to be torture. With a little patience you will get through the process just fine to reveal a beautiful and healthy smile. Ask your family orthodontist for more advice.


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