As an adult, it’s natural to feel a little self-conscious about heading back into the office with a mouth full of metal brackets and wires. You might worry about awkward questions from coworkers, discomfort or embarrassment during meetings, or simply figuring out what to eat for lunch. That said, the good news is that millions of adults successfully balance braces with busy careers every day, and with a little preparation, things are easier than you might think! Here are a few must-know tips to keep in mind.
1. Keep a Braces Kit Close By
One of the easiest ways to stay prepared is to keep a small kit of orthodontic essentials in your desk drawer, purse, backpack, or the glove box of your car. Pack orthodontic wax, a travel-sized toothbrush, floss threaders, a small bottle of mouthwash, and a small handheld mirror. Having these items on hand means you can handle minor discomfort or check for food debris without making a trip to the restroom, in addition to keeping your treatment on track and your smile clean.
2. Plan Your Meals Accordingly
Eating with braces takes a bit more planning, especially if your schedule is filled with meetings, client calls, presentations, or other responsibilities. Soft foods like yogurt, soup, and sandwiches made with soft bread are all excellent, braces-friendly options that are also easy to prepare. And remember, if you’re going to be eating a meal or snack before an important meeting or event, be sure to brush or rinse so there isn’t any food debris stuck in your braces!
3. Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
You probably already know this, but food particles can get trapped in braces much more easily than they normally would, so it’s important to brush after your meals. If brushing isn’t practical or possible, swish some water around your mouth or use a travel-sized mouthwash to quickly keep things fresh and clean. If you go the whole day without practicing oral hygiene, you’re just giving bacteria free, uninterrupted time to possibly derail your treatment by causing a cavity.
4. Remember Why You Got Braces in the First Place
On those days when your braces feel like a major inconvenience, it’s important to remember that you’re working towards a straighter, happier, healthier smile. Having confidence in your treatment plan can make it easier to deal with minor discomforts or anything else that might give you trouble. People will also focus far less on the metal in your mouth if you pay it no mind, so continue to smile and let self-esteem soar, knowing that the treatment is temporary and worth it in the end!
About Simply Orthodontics
At Simply Orthodontics, we’ve proudly served patients all across New England for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic solutions for all ages, from tried-and-true metal braces to clear aligners and more. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, you can reach out to our team online or call today for more information or to find the office closest to you.
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