Braces & Self Esteem: Do They Boost (Or Reduce) Confidence?
You often hear that confidence is a key aspect of success, happiness, and positive mental health. Numerous factors can impact your confidence, including your smile. Issues like crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, or other oral health problems can make you less likely to show it off. Feeling embarrassed by your smile can take a toll on your self-esteem, which, in turn, can significantly harm your confidence.
Braces can correct tooth alignment and bite issues, improving your oral health and your smile. But how do they affect your self-esteem and confidence?
The Pros and Cons of Braces
Traditional metal braces offer several benefits for children and adults alike, including:
- They can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues from mild to severe
- They’re durable
- They’re affordable, and most insurance companies offer at least partial coverage
There are a few notable drawbacks that come with traditional braces, too:
- They can be more uncomfortable, especially right after adjustments
- They limit what you can eat
- They make oral care more difficult
- They’re immediately noticeable
The Impact of Braces on Self-Esteem
With the appearance of shiny metal brackets and wires in your mouth every time you speak or smile, traditional braces can make you feel more self-conscious. As a result, your self-esteem — and your confidence — may take a hit.
On the bright side, however, the impact braces may have on your self-esteem is only temporary. Eventually, your braces will come off, leaving you with straighter teeth and a healthier smile you’ll love to show off. In other words, a short time with braces can leave you with a lifetime of improved self-esteem and confidence.
Are Braces Right for You?
Are dental alignment issues affecting your smile and how you feel about yourself? The following tips can help you decide if braces are the right choice for you.
Speak With an Orthodontist
If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. With a thorough exam, experienced orthodontists like Dr. Hansen can help you determine if you’re an ideal candidate and go over which treatment options might be best for you.
Learn About Alternative Options
Traditional metal braces are only one of several orthodontic treatment options you have for correcting dental alignment issues. Consider your wants — and the advice of your orthodontist — to figure out which one might the ideal treatment for you.
Clear braces
Like metal braces, clear braces consist of brackets and wires affixed to the front surfaces of your teeth. However, instead of metal, clear braces use ceramic or tooth-colored brackets.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces use brackets and wires as well. However, an orthodontist attaches the braces to the backs of your teeth, so they’re much less noticeable when you smile.
Invisalign
Invisalign or clear aligners offer a unique alternative. Instead of brackets and wires, this treatment involves the use of clear thermoplastic aligners. These aligners are removable, which makes eating and oral hygiene easier. They’re generally more comfortable than traditional braces. Best of all, they’re practically invisible, helping to boost your self-esteem and your confidence as your smile improves.
Look at Your Budget
Are you planning to use insurance to cover the cost of your treatment? Or will you pay out of pocket? Insurance generally only covers traditional metal braces. It may not offer much — if any — coverage for any other treatment. That doesn’t mean you can’t get invisible braces or Invisalign, though. Some orthodontists offer financing or payment plans, which can make the cost of your orthodontic care more manageable.
Learn More About Braces (and Alternative Options) at Hansen Orthodontics
Are you ready to learn more about your orthodontic treatment options and how they can help improve your self-esteem and confidence? Contact Hansen Orthodontics to schedule your free consultation today!
