It dawned on you the first time you looked in the mirror and saw what you look like in your new braces: You not only look a little different, you feel different, too.
Moving forward, you may have good days and not-so-good days. But you can maintain your resolve and commitment to your orthodontic journey and maintain your identity by asserting a positive attitude, embracing change to the fullest, and engaging in healthy, constructive habits. Get started today by:
Asserting Your Positive Attitude
- Dismiss juvenile name-calling for the ridiculous behavior it is. Your parents were spot-on about this when they said, “Consider the source.” It may take practice to let taunts roll off your back, but it will get easier to turn your back to them, too.
- Find a picture of someone you admire who used to wear braces and keep it with you at all times. It could be a picture of a family member, a friend, or even a celebrity, as long as it showcases a winning smile. Refer to that picture when you need inspiration, knowing that if the person you admire persevered with braces, you can, too.
- Celebrate milestones along the way. Take the total length of time you expect to wear braces and break it down into even intervals, such as every 60 or 90 days. Then, treat yourself to something special on these days. This should serve as a reminder that braces are a temporary fixture in your life and that you will enjoy beautiful, straight teeth for far longer than you will wear braces.
Embracing Change to the Fullest
- Embark on a special project to coincide with the duration of your orthodontic journey. It could be a home improvement project, a skill you have long wanted to master, or a hobby you have been eager to learn more about. By pairing your new braces with a new endeavor, you will create a positive association—and another positive outlet for your energies.
- Wear colorful rubber bands, part one: You may be reluctant to do so at first, preferring to keep a low dental profile. But you might be pleasantly surprised to see how empowering it can be to say, “As long as these braces are a part of me, they might as well express my personality, too.”
- Wear colorful rubber bands, part two: Once you’re emboldened, try color-coordinating the rubber bands with your outfit for the day, seasonal holidays, or sporting events. Many people strive to assert their individuality; braces give you a platform to showcase yours.
Engaging in Healthy Habits
- Maintain proper dental hygiene by following the tips provided by your orthodontist. Caring for braces can be more laborious than caring for teeth, but the stakes are higher, too. You cannot expect your confidence to sparkle unless your braces do, too.
- Remain active, exercise when you can, and ramp up your activity when you’re feeling unsettled or anxious. If you cannot find 30 consecutive minutes a day to exercise, break the time into two 15-minute intervals, perhaps one in the morning and one later in the day. Physical activity releases endorphins to energize you and keep you sharp and focused.
- Regulate your sleep patterns, ensuring that you get at least seven hours a night.
The orthodontists at Kapadia Orthodontics have noticed what happens when people assert a positive attitude, embrace change to the fullest, and engage in healthy, constructive habits: their braces come off, but the results of their concerted efforts linger on. That’s something look forward to!
