Starting a career in modeling often comes along with thrill and anxiety.
Imagine if it’s accompanied by the beginning of your orthodontic treatment! Can the onset of a catwalk be achieved with braces, or is it more reasonable to postpone your dream of becoming a model until your crooked teeth are finally straight? Let’s lift the veil of this challenging issue!
Modern Modeling Realities
Regardless of the battle cry for diversity and inclusiveness, nowadays many modeling agencies insist that models should have their braces taken off before they pass the threshold. However, we recurrently see models with braces on global runways.
For example, an American fashion model Halima Aden doesn’t care much about “fitting in,” proudly showing off her metal braces and hijab on major runways. Actually, challenging stereotypes in the fashion industry has helped her make astounding headlines!
Sometimes, braces can become an advantage. A model with braces may be called for promotions in dentistry to display toothpaste, interdental brushes, mouthwash, and the like.
Nevertheless, modeling with braces is associated with certain challenges. Except for ads for dental offices, promotional models with braces are not typically in high demand. Many agents are willing to sign you when the orthodontic treatment is over, but not sooner, explaining that marketing a model with braces is a daunting task. But keep your chin up: standards differ, and your case might be special.
Braces: The Type Makes a Difference
The demand for a model is partially influenced by whether the braces are scarcely detectable or highly noticeable. It is based on the type of braces, so let’s examine the most widespread options.
1. Metal braces
Traditional metal braces use stainless steel bands, brackets, and wires to gradually move your teeth to the anatomically appropriate position. Ligatures (small elastic bands) securely keep the wire in place.
This is the most noticeable type of braces, but in certain cases, it’s the only actionable method for a successful smile makeover. To make them more or less visible, you can play with clear or vividly-colored ligatures.
2. Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces look different from their metal counterparts as the brackets, wires, and ligatures are tooth-colored. Though they are still visible, they slightly blend in with your smile. Unfortunately, aesthetics comes at a certain cost: ceramic is more fragile than metal.
3. Clear aligners
Invisalign treatment is a godsent for those who seek a non-visible braces alternative. It is a series of personalized trays that straighten your teeth with time. You have to wear a set of aligners for nearly two weeks and proceed to the next one. Clear aligners have to stay in your mouth for at least 22 hours each day, but you can take them to eat, drink, and maintain oral hygiene. These aligners empower you to get a seamless start as a promotional model.
Well-Known Models With Braces
For a bit of inspiration, let’s discover which famous models have worn braces.
1. Kendall Jenner
An American model had a double experience with orthodontic treatment: she wore traditional braces at 13 and innovative Invisalign at 17. The need for a secondary treatment was dictated by a mere forgetfulness: Kendall regularly disremembered about her retainer, so her teeth went crooked again. Now the model boasts a straight, luminous smile.
2. Cindy Crawford
A legendary American model Cindy Crawford fixed her tough bite with traditional braces in the 70s. Though visible, they didn’t prevent her from participating in an iconic Pepsi commercial.
3. Gisele Bündchen
A Brazilian supermodel also underwent a successful orthodontic journey using Invisalign. She strived to mend a slight teeth misalignment as this dental issue created a shadow in photos. Invisalign allowed Gisele Bündchen to discreetly fix her bite while maintaining a prolific career.
Make Braces Your Zest!
Whichever type of braces your orthodontist prescribes, this is a temporary venture, meaning you don’t have to give up your dream to endeavor in modeling. We recommend that you talk both to your doctor and your agent (if you have one) prior to making any decisions. You may consider reaching out to trusted professionals for expert guidance on the best orthodontic options for aspiring models. If your agency doesn’t need you to have braces and your case is not severe, you may consider Invisalign.
Remember an American model Jordyn Woods said, “Modeling really helps me find my confidence and break out of my shell?” Maybe, you’d like to follow Halima Aden’s bold example and rock the runway with metal braces? Our quirks make us unique, so don’t be frustrated if you still have to wait for your braces to be off.
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