Getting braces is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile, but returning to work after your orthodontic appointment may require some adjustment. Whether you’re starting treatment for the first time or getting your braces tightened, you might experience soreness, changes in your eating habits, or concerns about your professional appearance. But fear not – a little preparation can make the transition easier! Learn more about 5 tips to help you feel comfortable and confident at work while wearing braces.
1. Pack a Braces-Friendly Lunch
After getting braces or having them adjusted, your teeth may feel tender for a few days. Hard, crunchy, and chewy foods can increase discomfort or damage your brackets and wires.
Pack soft foods that are easy to chew, such as yogurt, scrambled eggs, pasta, oatmeal, or a smoothie without hard pieces. Soft-cooked vegetables and bananas are also convenient options.
Avoid foods such as hard candies, popcorn, nuts, and sticky caramels, which can break brackets or become trapped around your braces. Keeping a few braces-friendly snacks in your desk can help you avoid reaching for something that could cause discomfort.
2. Keep a Care Kit at Your Desk
Food particles can easily become trapped between brackets and wires, especially after lunch. Keeping a small dental care kit at work makes it easier to maintain a clean, professional-looking smile throughout the day.
Include a travel toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss threaders or orthodontic floss, and orthodontic wax. If you can’t brush immediately after eating, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and brush when you have the opportunity.
Orthodontic wax can help cover a bracket or wire that irritates your cheeks or lips. If a wire becomes loose or a bracket breaks, contact your orthodontist for guidance rather than attempting a complicated repair yourself.
3. Brace Yourself!
It’s normal to experience some pressure or tenderness after braces are placed or adjusted. This discomfort usually improves within several days, but it can make concentrating at work more challenging.
Plan ahead by choosing softer meals, drinking cool water, and avoiding foods that require excessive chewing. If your orthodontist recommends an over-the-counter pain reliever, follow their instructions and the medication label.
Taking it easy during your lunch break and allowing yourself time to adjust can also help. If pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by significant swelling, contact your orthodontist.
4. Practice Speaking with Your Braces
Some people notice temporary changes in their speech after getting braces, particularly when they first begin treatment. You may feel self-conscious during meetings, phone calls, or presentations.
Practice reading aloud at home before returning to work. Speaking slowly and clearly can help you adjust to the new feeling in your mouth. Most people become more comfortable as their tongue and lips adapt.
5. Last but Not Least: Keep Smiling
Remember that coworkers are often less focused on your braces than you might think. Braces are a common orthodontic treatment, and there’s no reason to hide your smile.
Be proud! Keep in mind that if you’re smiling with braces, it only means your colleagues will notice the beautiful results once you get them off!
Returning to work with braces doesn’t have to be stressful. With soft foods, a convenient dental care kit, strategies for managing soreness, and a consistent cleaning routine, you can stay comfortable and confident throughout treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Shannon Stokes earned his degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has more than 18 years of experience as a family and cosmetic dentist. If you’re an adult interested in braces, Dr. Stokes and his team offer a revolutionary new treatment called “Six Month Smiles,” perfect for working professionals who want to discreetly and quickly achieve the smile of their dreams. Contact us online to learn more or call our Plano office at (972) 596-0200.
