metal mouth struggles—how do you deal with eating in public?

"Food gets stuck everywhere, and I'm paranoid people are staring at my teeth."

Honestly, I felt exactly the same way at first. I remember going out for pizza with friends about a month into having braces—total disaster. But after a while, I realized people really aren't paying as much attention as we think they are. Most folks are too busy worrying about their own stuff. Plus, you eventually learn little tricks for discreetly checking your teeth or rinsing with water. It does get better, trust me... just give it some time.

It does get better, trust me...

I get what you're saying about people not noticing as much as we think, but honestly, sometimes they do. I remember once at a family barbecue, my cousin straight-up pointed out spinach stuck in my braces in front of everyone—talk about embarrassing. Sure, most people won't stare or care, but it only takes one awkward moment to make you self-conscious again. I've learned to always carry a compact mirror or use my phone camera discreetly... better safe than sorry, right?

"I've learned to always carry a compact mirror or use my phone camera discreetly... better safe than sorry, right?"

That's definitely a practical approach. Another thing I've found helpful is choosing foods carefully when eating out—nothing too leafy or stringy that loves getting stuck. Pasta dishes or soups can be safer bets. Of course, you can't always control the menu, but a quick rinse with water after eating also helps. It's a bit of hassle, sure, but it beats awkward spinach moments any day.

Another thing I've found helpful is choosing foods carefully when eating out—nothing too leafy or stringy that loves getting stuck.

Haha, spinach moments are the worst. Pasta's usually safe, but careful with pesto—learned that the hard way. I also keep toothpicks handy, they're lifesavers for quick fixes. Honestly though, after a while you just stop caring as much...everyone's too busy worrying about their own teeth anyway.