The irony is that crooked teeth and other dental issues can cause confidence levels to plummet. But as soon as we put on braces to fix the problem, the braces themselves can also cause a drop in confidence and make people afraid to smile. While there is still a bit of stigma around visible orthodontic treatments, there’s no need to be ashamed of braces. The end result will be straight teeth and a stunning grin. Let’s delve into the relationship between confidence and braces.
How Crooked Teeth and Dental Issues Diminish Confidence:
Whether it’s crowding, spacing, overjet, a crossbite or an underbite, orthodontic problems can make you feel less attractive. This takes a toll on self-esteem in children, teens and adults. People with crooked teeth are often afraid to smile and a confident smile is extremely important when making a first impression. Like it or not, we live in a world where these first impressions matter.
Psychology Today reported on a Kelton Research study that found crooked teeth can have a negative impact on romantic and career success. Those with crooked teeth were (unfairly) judged as less intelligent and accomplished. Not only that, dental problems can affect your physical health. Feeling good is another important component in confidence.
How to Maintain Confidence While Wearing Braces:
So now you’ve decided to straighten your teeth, but this will entail braces. Take a deep breath! Yes, you may have to wear an orthodontic appliance for a little while, but stay focused on the end result. Even some of the world’s most beautiful celebrities have worn braces to achieve their coveted smiles. Here are a few ways to stay confident while wearing braces:
- Some patients are candidates for more under-the-radar orthodontic treatment such as clear braces and Invisalign, which are virtually invisible in comparison to traditional metal braces. Adults in particular tend to worry about esthetics and should ask their orthodontist about the different treatment options.
- Regardless of the type of braces you wear, keeping your teeth clean makes smiling a lot easier. Make sure you rinse your mouth out after eating, brush your braces properly and stay on top of your oral hygiene, including regular visits to your dentist for cleaning.
- Be careful with food choices. Nothing is worse than breaking a bracket or wire on something chewy, especially if you’re in public. Avoid foods that could cause an orthodontic emergency or get stuck in your wires.
- Keep in mind it’s only temporary. Visualize how great you’ll look when you get your braces off. This is an excellent motivator.
- Don’t overthink it. More often than not, others are worrying about their own appearance and the fact you’re wearing braces probably hasn’t crossed their minds. Be yourself and relax.
- You’ve probably heard the phrase, “fake it till you make it.” It really does work. If you feel self-conscious about wearing braces, smile confidently even if you’re just pretending. Eventually, you’ll actually start to feel fearless!
The Benefits of Having a Beautiful Smile:
Once your braces are off, you’ll have straight teeth and the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. You’ll experience improved oral health and increased self-esteem. A great smile changes how others perceive you for the better and even how you perceive yourself. Children and teens find they are more assertive, less shy and feel good about themselves after orthodontic treatment.
However, it isn’t just kids who benefit. The American Association of Orthodontists surveyed adult orthodontic patients, ages 18 and older, in the United States and Canada. 75 percent of participants reported improvements in career or personal relationships, which they said was a result of their post-braces smile. 92 percent of those surveyed said they would recommend orthodontic treatment to others. Even better, the majority of the 71 percent who had concerns before treatment, such as the appearance of braces, said the concerns stopped once treatment started.
The change in confidence before and after braces is substantial. With higher self-esteem, you’ll feel like you can take on anything. Though some people feel shame about wearing braces, there are ways to manage it, and when they come off, you’re left with straight teeth and a confident smile. Ready to see if orthodontic treatment is right for you? Contact Aura Orthodontics in Surrey today for a free consultation.
