They are questions universally asked by anyone who wears braces: Can I kiss someone? Can someone else with braces kiss me when I have braces? These are legitimate concerns of patients, both teen braces wearers and adults with braces. Here are some facts and braces-friendly kissing techniques to remember.
Give thanks for orthodontic innovations.
Modern braces are designed to be small and comfortable – and they are unlikely to lock together during a kiss. Braces are not magnetic. It’s an urban myth and should not stop you from some good kissing.
Be aware of lip pressure.
Lips are meant to press together softly in a kiss, but when metal braces are present, hardware will press on the soft tissues and could cause discomfort. Keep the kisses light to avoid scrapes or jabs.
Use dental wax.
It may take a little prep, but if you’ve endured uncomfortable kisses while wearing orthodontics, try using dental wax on the bumpiest parts. Covering your front teeth can limit discomfort for you and your partner.
Keep your mouth closed.
If you’re really concerned about cutting your mouth or the other person’s, keep your lips closed so the hardware on your teeth doesn’t have an opportunity to cause problems.
Brush your teeth.
The biggest thing to concern yourself with when it comes to kissing is your breath. Braces hold onto all sorts of food particles and plaque if you aren’t cleaning teeth and brackets and wires thoroughly. Brush and floss after meals or snacks for fresh breath, especially if you’re anticipating a kiss.
Communicate.
Your partner knows you have braces, but they may forget this important detail when it comes time to get close. Remind them what you have going on so you can both make smart decisions to avoid discomfort or half-hearted kissing.
Moisturize and hydrate.
Take care of your lips when you wear braces because a side effect of orthodontics can be dry lips. Drink more water than usual and keep lip balm in your bag or pocket so the gentle skin of your lips doesn’t suffer – and so they’re always ready for a kiss.
Adjust your technique.
If kissing one way with braces doesn’t work or feels weird, try another way. Whether you’re young or old, there are circumstances that arise in life that get in the way of a solid kiss. Be creative, adjust your technique, and be patient about getting things just right for you.
Keep your sense of humor.
Don’t take kissing sessions too seriously. If you and your partner are a good match, you’ll both find the humor in this temporary setback when it comes to making out.
Consider an alternative.
If you’re concerned about conventional braces getting in the way of puckering up, talk to your orthodontist about whether you’re a candidate for Invisalign. The trays are smooth and slim, so they won’t be as noticeable and don’t need to be removed before it’s time to lean in for a kiss.
Get answers to all your kissing questions and more from Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville, WA. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
