Braces may not be the accessory that you were hoping for but you also won't want to avoid pictures for the entire time that you have braces. The tips below can help you take photos with confidence.
Choose a more discreet braces option.
Orthodontics has reached the point where there is an abundance of options for those in need of treatment.
Self-ligating braces are a good example of this. These have smaller brackets and save you from the need for wires and elastics.
Ceramic braces may be another option. While the brackets are slightly larger in size than standard braces, they are created in a colour similar to that of your own teeth.
Many teenagers and adults are now choosing Invisalign orthodontic treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are not made of metal at all. Instead, they are made of clear, BPA-free plastic, making them almost invisible when worn.
Any of the above options can help make your braces look less obvious in pictures so that your face and your smile can be the focus.
Try colourful elastics to make a statement.
another option to making your pictures stand out with braces is to ask for colourful elastics that can compliment your outfit.
Traditional metal braces usually have elastic bands attached to the brackets which are changed often allowing you to frequently change up the colour.
These elastics come in pretty much every colour of the rainbow, allowing you to change up your look, coordinate with an outfit you’re planning for a special event, or complement your eye colour or skin tone.
Just keep smiling.
When expecting photos to be taken, you can take some time leading up to the day to practice smiling with your new braces. Stand in front of the mirror and smile at yourself, from different angles, to see which one works best for you.
You can also try taking some selfies, or have a friend or family member take some pictures of you.
Doing things like this should help you grow accustomed to how your smile looks now that you have braces.
Just getting used to your new look can help you overcome a lack of confidence regarding your new smile, and nothing makes for a better picture than a great big confident smile!
Your braces are going to play a big role in your appearance for the coming months and years.
It will be in your best interest to work on feeling as confident and comfortable with your braces-clad smile as soon as possible - both now, and in the future when you’re looking back at pictures of yourself during this time. If you have questions about life with braces, feel free to ask our orthodontists - we're here to address your concerns.