What Should You Expect When Dating With Braces?

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, many people start thinking about connections, confidence, and how they feel about sharing their smile with someone special. For teens and young adults beginning orthodontic treatment at Total Orthodontics in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, Colorado, one question comes up from time to time.

“What is dating like when you’re wearing braces?”

It’s a totally understandable question. After all, braces are new, they feel different, and they seem like they would influence your social life in a major way. But here’s the real truth: dating with braces is far more normal, comfortable, and uncomplicated than most people expect. With a little time and some helpful tips from Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue, most patients find that braces don’t get in the way of friendships, romantic interests, or enjoying new experiences.

This guide walks you through what dating feels like with braces, what to expect in the beginning, and how to stay comfortable and confident while meeting new people this Valentine’s season and beyond.

Adjusting to Braces: Is It Normal to Feel a Little Unsure?

If you feel a little self-conscious when you first get braces, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not unusual. Nearly every patient goes through a brief adjustment period.

Why Does the Beginning Feels Different?

When you start treatment, several things are brand new:

• The way your teeth feel
• How your lips rest
• The look of brackets or aligners
• A new oral care routine
  

So naturally, it’s common to have moments of uncertainty.

But here’s the part many patients forget: other people don’t notice your braces nearly as much as you notice them.

Why?

• Braces are extremely common
• Many people wore braces themselves
• Others have close friends or family who did
• People pay more attention to expressions, humor, kindness, and confidence
  

In fact, a warm smile or a friendly personality stands out way more than any orthodontic appliance.

Smiling With Braces: Will It Feel Different?

In the first week or two, your smile may feel a little stiff or unusual simply because your mouth is adjusting. But that feeling goes away quickly.

When Does Smiling Start to Feel Natural Again?

Usually within:

• A few days for mild adjustments
• A couple of weeks for full comfort
  

Most patients say they stop thinking about their braces entirely once they settle into their routine.

Can Braces Actually Improve Self-Esteem?

Absolutely.

As your teeth begin shifting into place, you’ll start noticing:

• A more even smile
• Straighter teeth
• A more confident expression
  

Seeing that progress can be incredibly motivating, especially if your dating life is also starting to grow.

What About Eating on a Date? Can You Still Enjoy It?

Many people feel nervous about the food part of dating. Will food get stuck? Will certain meals be uncomfortable? Will it be embarrassing?

But dating and eating out with braces can still be enjoyable and stress-free. You just make a few small adjustments.

Best Foods to Choose on a Date

Soft foods are your best friend during treatment. They are easy to chew and gentle on brackets. Some great date-friendly options include:

• Pasta dishes
• Soft tacos
• Cooked vegetables
• Noodles and rice bowls
• Smooth soups
• Omelets
• Tender fish or chicken
  

These foods look normal and don’t draw attention to your braces, making them feel comfortable and effortless on a date.

Foods to Avoid (Especially on First Dates)

Some foods are harder to manage and can cause trouble:

• Hard rolls or crusty bread
• Nuts
• Sticky candies
• Extra-chewy snacks
• Crunchy chips
• Popcorn
  

You don’t have to avoid them forever, but on a date, sticking to gentler foods makes the experience smoother.

What If Food Gets Stuck?

It happens to everyone, braces or not. The easiest fix is simple:

• Carry a small interdental brush or dental pick
• Swish with water
• Plan a quick restroom break if needed
  

Most people won’t even notice, and it becomes second nature after a while.

Kissing With Braces: Is It Something to Worry About?

This is one of the most common concerns, and one of the easiest to address.

Do Braces Get in the Way of Kissing?

No. Modern braces are designed to be:

• Smooth
• Sleek
• Low profile
  

They don’t protrude nearly as much as older styles, so they rarely interfere with close moments.

Is There an Adjustment Period?

A small one, yes, but it’s mostly about your comfort level, not the braces themselves. Once you’re used to the feel of them, kissing becomes just as natural as before.

Can Braces Get Tangled?

This is one of the biggest myths in orthodontics.

Braces don’t interlock with someone else’s braces. It’s almost physically impossible. Patients are often relieved once they understand this.

What’s the Best Way to Keep Your Smile Fresh and Confident During Dating?

A clean smile doesn’t just look great, it feels great too. And during orthodontic treatment, good oral hygiene truly makes a difference.

A Simple, Effective Dating-Friendly Care Routine

Here’s an easy routine that keeps your smile healthy and attractive:

• Brush after meals when you can
• Floss every day (a floss threader helps)
• Rinse with water to remove food
• Use orthodontic wax for irritated spots
• Attend appointments at Total Orthodontics consistently
  

Consistent checkups ensure your braces are aligned, polished, and functioning properly, which helps your smile look its best.

Dating With Braces vs. Dating Without Braces: What’s Really Different?

Let’s take a clear look at the differences and the similarities.

Dating Experience Comparison

Most differences are minor and temporary, and your personality still shines through either way.

Key Takeaways:

• Dating with braces is surprisingly simple once you adjust
• Most people don’t notice braces nearly as much as you expect
• Soft foods make meals comfortable and stress-free
• Kissing is completely normal with braces
• A clean smile boosts confidence throughout treatment
• Starting braces early in the year helps you reach your smile goals sooner
  
  

Want to Keep Your Smile Date-Ready Every Day?

Feeling confident while dating starts with a smile that looks and feels healthy. If you want simple habits that can keep your teeth clean, fresh, and comfortable throughout orthodontic treatment, check out our guide “Daily Habits to Improve Your Oral Health.” It’s filled with easy tips to help you maintain great oral hygiene between appointments.

Ready to Begin Your Smile Journey?

If you’re thinking about starting braces or you’re already in treatment, know that your dating life doesn’t have to pause. You can feel confident, comfortable, and excited about meeting new people while working toward a beautiful smile.

At Total Orthodontics in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, Colorado, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue are here to guide you, answer your questions, and support you through every step of your orthodontic experience.

Take the first step toward a smile you’ll love. Schedule your consultation today!