So before I got braces I didn’t smile much, in fact even when I laughed I would cover my mouth with my hand.

It’s weird that only now being a year since my braces were removed that I reflect on just how much this little thing about smiling held me back.

I really want to encourage those on Reddit who are on their braces journey as I write this and those who are on the fence about starting because it has changed my life.

Here are a few things I’ve noticed after a year of straight teeth.

1. Smiling is infectious

When I’m out socialising now I notice as I’m telling a story and smiling that people listening and looking are smiling back at me and warming to me more, it probably sounds obvious but like I mentioned, before braces i would not smile much, my mouth was very much sealed.

1. I Respect my teeth more

My oral hygiene wasn’t very consistent before getting braces, i would always be like “what’s the point” but now I want to look after them. Water flossing, brushing, tongue scraping, wearing my retainer every night… you name it and I’m all in.

1. Getting used to compliments

It still catches me off guard to the point where i blush when someone says something nice about my smile, I’ve never had that before in my life so it has taken some adjustment.

The only thing I can say is that if you are insecure about your smile and you can find a way to financially get it done, then please do it.

I promise you it will be worth it.

❤️