Many people think braces are just for teens, but over a quarter of those getting braces in the U.S. are adults. Still, it’s natural to feel nervous about having braces as an adult, especially at work. You might worry about looking “immature” or “unprofessional.” Luckily, there are ways to get around this concern. Continue reading to learn about a few easy tips that you can follow to feel confident and capable, no matter what the day brings.
Remind Yourself of the Reality
The reality is, people you work with will only notice your braces the first time they see them, and then they usually won’t think about them again. Even if you’re meeting someone new, they’ll stop noticing your braces shortly after you start talking. People are busy, especially during work hours, so they generally won’t pay much attention to your braces. Remember this when you start feeling self-conscious!
Make a To-Go Kit
While it’s a bit more challenging to keep teeth clean with braces, having an office hygiene kit can help. This prevents food from getting stuck in your braces and affecting your breath. All you need is a travel-sized toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. Just brush, floss, and rinse after eating, and your smile and breath will likely be fresher than everyone else’s in the office!
Water is Your Friend
In addition to cleaning your teeth regularly, it’s helpful for orthodontic patients to drink water and swish it around their mouth during the day. This helps remove more food particles, keeping your mouth looking and feeling fresh.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
This tip is good for everyone, not just those working with braces: avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods. These can damage your braces, and dealing with an orthodontic issue at work can be stressful. Also, consider skipping very spicy or strongly flavored foods to reduce the chance of bits getting stuck in your braces and affecting your breath.
The adjustments to your braces are subtle, effective, and shouldn’t be noticeable to your co-workers. This helps you move closer to achieving a straight smile while keeping your professional image intact.
About the Author
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Patricia A. Simon has helped many patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. She earned her DDS from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and completed her orthodontic residency at Boston University. Committed to providing the best care in Dallas, she stays active in professional organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment as an adult, you can schedule an appointment through her website or by calling (214) 826-9000.