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Health
Teeth and Mouth Health
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Braces
How to Look Great With Braces Download Article Co-authored by Jeremy Silverman, DMD
Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Approved
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Living With Braces
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Maintaining Oral Hygiene
|
Focusing Attention Elsewhere
|
Expert Q&A
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Tips
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This article was co-authored by Jeremy Silverman, DMD. Jeremy Silverman is a Dentist and Founder of Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler, Arizona. With a decade of professional dental experience, he focuses his practice on incorporating mental well-being into the core of oral care. He also partakes in continuing education and stays up to date with the newest techniques, technology, and products. Dr. Silverman holds a BA in Psychobiology from the University of California at Los Angeles and a DMD from Midwestern University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Dr. Silverman is also Laser Certified by the World Clinical Laser Institute. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 291,952 times.
Everybody wants to look good & dashing but braces can be a major pain. Don't let them change your self-image! Braces will do their work, and then you'll never regret getting them. Follow the following steps about how to look good and be confident with braces.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Living With Braces
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1 Embrace your braces. Having braces is awesome – not because of the way they look or how they feel, but because of the results they will give you. When you have braces, it shows other people that you care about your appearance, and that you are trying to improve it. Remember that when your treatment is done, you will have a straight smile.[1]XResearch source
2 If you have traditional braces, think about the color bands you will choose.
Avoid clear bands, since they tend to stain.
Gray is a good choice if you don't want to draw too much attention to your braces.
Avoid yellow, black, and white, because they can make your teeth look yellow.[2]XResearch source
Try to experiment with different colors. You'll get to know after some time which colors look best on you.
If you're going to do two colors or more, make sure that they do not clash with each other.
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3 Considering asking for another style of braces. If you really do not like the traditional braces that you've been given, ask your orthodontist about other types of braces. Some of your options include:
Ceramic Braces: they are the same size as the traditional ones, except they are colored to look like your teeth.[3]XResearch source
Lingual Braces: they are located on the inside of the teeth so they won't be visible. Be aware that they tend to be more uncomfortable at first, and they may hurt more.[4]XResearch source
Invisalign: this is not a type of braces. They are custom-made mouth guards that will align your teeth over a period of two years or more. They don't work for serious dental issues.
4 Don't be shy! Keep a smile on your face, and hold your head high. A friendly face and a positive attitude will have much more effect on your appearance than your braces ever could. Be authentically yourself – that's what really matters.[5]XResearch source
Don't intentionally mumble or try to keep your mouth closed. People might get the wrong idea and think you're shy or don't want to talk to them.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
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1 Have an oral care routine. Having braces is not just having something in your mouth that will strengthen your teeth. Having braces is about making a practice of taking care of your teeth. If you maintain your oral hygiene, your braces will have a much more positive effect upon your eventual appearance.[6]XResearch source
Don't forget to see your dentist regularly, either every three or six months. If you find cleaning your teeth difficult, it's recommended to see your dentist more often so that they can clean them properly for you.
2 Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Always brush your teeth in the morning and at night. It is extremely important to remove all of the little pieces of food that can get stuck between your teeth due to your braces. For a cleaner mouth, try using an electric brush, accompanied by mouthwash and floss.[7]XResearch source
If you can't brush your teeth, use mouthwash. Whenever you aren't at home but you want that perfect, clean smile: use mouthwash. It will refresh you and it will help with your breath.
3 Floss daily. Don't forget to floss. Flossing will not only make your mouth feel and look cleaner – it will help prevent inflammation and gum diseases like gingivitis. Flossing is essential when you have braces. It can be hard to floss, but it can be much less effort if you use a waxed floss or dental picks.[8]X Trustworthy Source Mayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
If you find flossing difficult and don't mind paying a bit of money, consider purchasing an electric water flosser. These are either connected to a power outlet or rechargeable and should be used after you eat to get rid of any remaining food stuck in your teeth.[9]X Expert Source Jeremy Silverman, DMDDentistExpert Interview
4 Follow your edible diet strictly. If you make progress, your orthodontist might be able to take off the braces early! Don't eat sticky food. It could get stuck in your braces, and that doesn't look great.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Focusing Attention Elsewhere
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1 Change your appearance. If you wear accessories or dress yourself in a bold way, you might be able to draw people's attention away from your mouth. Think about the things you've always wanted to try: new hairstyles, new clothing styles, new accessories. Yes, these things may catch people's eyes – but if you are authentic in expressing yourself, the attention will not be negative.
2 Wear accessories. Try wearing an interesting hat, a pair of sunglasses, or a scarf. Wear a different style of clothes, and try a new trend. Put on a t-shirt that is different from your regular attire. Wear temporary tattoos and jewelry.
3 Use makeup and hairstyles to distract from your braces. Put your hair into a new and exciting hairstyle – or get a bold haircut! Do your eye makeup in a colorful, catchy way.
Apply sparkly or dramatic eye-shadow. Eye-shadow takes the attention away from your mouth and to your eyes. Don't use too much!
Avoid wearing bright lipstick. It will draw all the attention towards your mouth
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Expert Q&A
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Question What advice do you have for eating without getting food caught in spacers or separators? Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist Jeremy Silverman is a Dentist and Founder of Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler, Arizona. With a decade of professional dental experience, he focuses his practice on incorporating mental well-being into the core of oral care. He also partakes in continuing education and stays up to date with the newest techniques, technology, and products. Dr. Silverman holds a BA in Psychobiology from the University of California at Los Angeles and a DMD from Midwestern University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Dr. Silverman is also Laser Certified by the World Clinical Laser Institute. Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist Expert Answer Getting food stuck in braces is an all too common occurrence. They are quite difficult to keep free of food debris during and after mealtime. An item that is quite beneficial is a WaterPik. Via a bent handle designed for the mouth, the device sprays a small stream of water between the teeth to dislodge food and plaque. Use the appropriate-sized attachment on the Waterpik and lean over the sink while using it as water will drip from your mouth during this process. The tip of the Waterpik should be placed between the teeth and then the area should be gently lavaged. Do this between all teeth. Mouthwash can be diluted in the water reservoir (¼ mouthwash:¾ water) to provide a fresh feel and increased antimicrobial activity. Floss threaders are also helpful in these situations to successfully get floss where you need it under the braces. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 6
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Tips
After your braces are put on, you will most likely be in pain from the pressure on your teeth. Take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage the pain, although it should go within four to six days.[10]X Expert Source Jeremy Silverman, DMDDentistExpert InterviewThanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
If you want cool colors, try a dark with a light color, like gray and pink. Try not to go with two dark or two light colours. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Experiment with colors and see which ones you like best! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips
Tips from our Readers
The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
Finding supportive friends can help if you feel self-conscious about new braces. An over-the-counter pain med like Advil helps relieve soreness as you adjust also. Most of all, be your authentic self no matter what others think.
Check that your braces stay clean by carrying a small mirror for quick inspections. Colors like teal, green or lavender can beautifully complement different eye shades too. Just avoid darker hues that resemble food debris.
Those with darker complexions should consider lighter brace colors, while lighter skin often pairs well with bold colors. Feel free to experiment to find what makes you feel most confident!
Remind anyone teasing about your braces that you'll soon have a perfect smile! And be sure to follow any orthodontist instructions like wearing prescribed rubber bands. Good luck!
Embrace your braces with fun colors instead of trying to hide them. People will notice them anyway, so you might as well rock cute picks like light purple, pink or blue!
Light pink blends well with gums and lips to discreetly complement a smile. It tends to draw less attention than other flashy colors.
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
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↑ Jeremy Silverman, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
More References (1)
↑ Jeremy Silverman, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
About This Article
Co-authored by: Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist This article was co-authored by Jeremy Silverman, DMD. Jeremy Silverman is a Dentist and Founder of Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler, Arizona. With a decade of professional dental experience, he focuses his practice on incorporating mental well-being into the core of oral care. He also partakes in continuing education and stays up to date with the newest techniques, technology, and products. Dr. Silverman holds a BA in Psychobiology from the University of California at Los Angeles and a DMD from Midwestern University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Dr. Silverman is also Laser Certified by the World Clinical Laser Institute. This article has been viewed 291,952 times. 10 votes - 48% Co-authors: 47Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 291,952 Categories: Braces
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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Article SummaryX
You can look great with braces by choosing neutral bracket colors like black, grey, or silver, which will show the least and don’t stain easily. You can also accessorize to distract from your braces by wearing an interesting hat, or a cool, new t-shirt to help you feel good about yourself. Additionally, make sure to brush and floss twice a day to keep your teeth healthy and stain-free. Remember, your attitude has more effect on your appearance than your braces, so hold your head high and smile! To learn how to use makeup to look great with braces, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Mckenna G.
Aug 3, 2016
"To look good in braces, make sure you brush your teeth after every meal or 2 times day. After a while, you'll see a difference in the whiteness in your teeth. Another way to look good in braces is to be confident and not worry what other people think!"..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist 10 votes - 48% Click a star to vote 48% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 47Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 291,952
Mckenna G.
Aug 3, 2016
"To look good in braces, make sure you brush your teeth after every meal or 2 times day. After a while, you'll see a difference in the whiteness in your teeth. Another way to look good in braces is to be confident and not worry what other people think!"..." more
Anonymous
Sep 1, 2016
"I feel so much better. I'm getting braces soon, and was quite scared. I tried to get advice from some of my friends with braces, but it didn't really help. Then I saw this article, and now I'm so ready to get braces. Bring on the wires!"..." more
Roshelle Rincon
Jul 3, 2017
"I have always been really confident with my appearance. That is, until I got braces. This article helped me get confident again!"..." more Rated this article:
Za'Karra Martin
Jun 17, 2016
"The part that stood out to me was the focusing on places elsewhere on your face. It actually helped my sister."
Khai Leigh
Jun 30, 2019
"This article gave me many tips on how to look awesome in braces! Also some relief, knowing I wont look lame." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Co-authored by: Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist This article was co-authored by Jeremy Silverman, DMD. Jeremy Silverman is a Dentist and Founder of Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler, Arizona. With a decade of professional dental experience, he focuses his practice on incorporating mental well-being into the core of oral care. He also partakes in continuing education and stays up to date with the newest techniques, technology, and products. Dr. Silverman holds a BA in Psychobiology from the University of California at Los Angeles and a DMD from Midwestern University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Dr. Silverman is also Laser Certified by the World Clinical Laser Institute. This article has been viewed 291,952 times. 10 votes - 48% Co-authors: 47 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 291,952 Categories: Braces 
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1 Embrace your braces. Having braces is awesome – not because of the way they look or how they feel, but because of the results they will give you. When you have braces, it shows other people that you care about your appearance, and that you are trying to improve it. Remember that when your treatment is done, you will have a straight smile.[1] 
2 If you have traditional braces, think about the color bands you will choose. 
3 Considering asking for another style of braces. If you really do not like the traditional braces that you've been given, ask your orthodontist about other types of braces. Some of your options include: 
4 Don't be shy! Keep a smile on your face, and hold your head high. A friendly face and a positive attitude will have much more effect on your appearance than your braces ever could. Be authentically yourself – that's what really matters.[5] 
1 Have an oral care routine. Having braces is not just having something in your mouth that will strengthen your teeth. Having braces is about making a practice of taking care of your teeth. If you maintain your oral hygiene, your braces will have a much more positive effect upon your eventual appearance.[6] 
2 Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Always brush your teeth in the morning and at night. It is extremely important to remove all of the little pieces of food that can get stuck between your teeth due to your braces. For a cleaner mouth, try using an electric brush, accompanied by mouthwash and floss.[7] 
3 Floss daily. Don't forget to floss. Flossing will not only make your mouth feel and look cleaner – it will help prevent inflammation and gum diseases like gingivitis. Flossing is essential when you have braces. It can be hard to floss, but it can be much less effort if you use a waxed floss or dental picks.[8] 
4 Follow your edible diet strictly. If you make progress, your orthodontist might be able to take off the braces early! Don't eat sticky food. It could get stuck in your braces, and that doesn't look great. Advertisement 
1 Change your appearance. If you wear accessories or dress yourself in a bold way, you might be able to draw people's attention away from your mouth. Think about the things you've always wanted to try: new hairstyles, new clothing styles, new accessories. Yes, these things may catch people's eyes – but if you are authentic in expressing yourself, the attention will not be negative. 
2 Wear accessories. Try wearing an interesting hat, a pair of sunglasses, or a scarf. Wear a different style of clothes, and try a new trend. Put on a t-shirt that is different from your regular attire. Wear temporary tattoos and jewelry. 
3 Use makeup and hairstyles to distract from your braces. Put your hair into a new and exciting hairstyle – or get a bold haircut! Do your eye makeup in a colorful, catchy way. 
Jeremy Silverman, DMD Dentist Jeremy Silverman is a Dentist and Founder of Peace of Mind Dental Studio in Chandler, Arizona. With a decade of professional dental experience, he focuses his practice on incorporating mental well-being into the core of oral care. He also partakes in continuing education and stays up to date with the newest techniques, technology, and products. Dr. Silverman holds a BA in Psychobiology from the University of California at Los Angeles and a DMD from Midwestern University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Dr. Silverman is also Laser Certified by the World Clinical Laser Institute. 