If you started braces, you might be excited about getting a straighter smile. During your treatment, you might want to take pictures of your teeth to see how they move. That said, you might be worried about how your brackets and wires look. There are a few ways you can take great photos with orthodontics, so here are four tips to help you show off a confident grin.
Brush Your Teeth
Before you get your picture taken, head to the bathroom and do your oral hygiene routine. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth will remove any food debris trapped in your smile. Interdental brushes are a convenient tool to have handy as they can reach between your brackets and wires.
Avoid Certain Foods Beforehand
After you do your oral hygiene routine, you shouldn’t eat to avoid stuff from getting stuck. But if you need to, steer clear of anything hard, sticky, and chewy. These items can damage your hardware and cause an orthodontic emergency.
That worry might show on your face in the photo, so making a small switch can prevent any issues. If anything does break, use dental wax over the wire or bracket to cover any sharp points until you can visit your dentist.
Choose the Right Elastic Colors
You might have elastics on your braces for a fun pop of flair besides shiny metal. You should choose colors that make your teeth look brighter. Dark, jewel-toned options are typically best. Yellows and greens can be mistaken for stains or stuck pieces of food, so consider avoiding them. White or transparent might not be best either since they can discolor.
Try to Be Confident
In the end, you should feel proud about having braces. While it can be easier said than done, you’re well on your way to getting a straighter smile you love. Millions of other people have felt the same way you are, so don’t let your self-consciousness make you hide your grin. Instead, show it off so you can look back in photos and see how far it came.
About the Author
Dr. Justyna Balicka earned her dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and completed her orthodontic residency at St. Barnabas Hospital. She is dedicated to helping patients in Amityville correct their misalignment and malocclusion with effective solutions like braces. If you need help adjusting to your wires and brackets, schedule an appointment or call her office at 631-201-8100.