It might’ve been a big adjustment getting Six Month Smiles®. There are new habits you had to add into your lifestyle, but you are well on your way to getting straighter teeth. That said, it may be inevitable you’ll have to take pictures during your treatment. You might feel conscious of the brackets and wires, but here are four tips to help you show off your grin confidently.
Clean Out Your Braces
If you know you are getting your photo taken, then take a few minutes to head to the bathroom and clean your smile. Brush, floss, and rinse your mouth to remove any food debris lingering in your mouth. It can be helpful to have interdental brushes on hand to clear the spaces between your hardware. Just don’t eat afterward so you don’t worry about anything new getting stuck.
Avoid Hard Foods
Building off the point above, certain foods are more trouble than others. Hard, sticky, and chewy items can break a wire or bracket. This orthodontic emergency might make you more nervous, so simply steer clear of them to avoid issues. If one does occur, then consider having dental wax nearby. You can apply it to round out any sharp points; that way, you feel a bit more comfortable while you show off your grin.
Limit Dark-Colored Items
Six Month Smiles® braces are already tooth-colored, but it’s important you keep them that way. Dark-colored foods and drinks can stain them over time, so you should limit them as much as possible.
Tomato sauce, coffee, tea, some sodas, berries, and red wine are just a few items that can increase your risk of discoloration. While it may be hard to say goodbye to these, try your best to keep them in moderation. If you do have them, then rinse with water to wash away lingering particles.
Try to Be Confident
In the end, try to feel confident about undergoing Six Month Smiles®. You are currently working hard to get the grin you will feel prouder of. While it may be easier said than done, you are taking the time and money to invest in a confident set of teeth. Why not get a head start and show off your teeth now so you can look back and see how far your journey has come.
About the Practice
Want to correct your crookedness or crowding? Our team at Dentistry at Hickory Flat is dedicated to helping patients correct cosmetic orthodontic issues with Six Month Smiles®. Led by compassionate dentists, we stay at your side throughout your treatment and help you build a good routine that avoids trouble. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 770-213-8166.