6 Great reasons why you SHOULD get Braces and why braces are worth your money

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BID GOODBYE TO UGLY & CROOKED TEETH WITH BRACES

Braces can be a part of beauty in our lives You may think that braces makes one ugly, but it can never be worse than a set of crooked teeth

Having an ugly and crooked set of teeth can be very detrimental to the self-esteem and confidence of an individual. Not only does it possibly bring about criticisms from others, it also causes those with such a set of teeth to face many struggles - which apparently, people with perfect teeth can't understand. 
I've previously blogged about the different struggles people like us with crooked teeth face often (click here to read more), and today I am going to tell you the exact reasons why you should get braces and why they are worth it. 



Firstly & most importantly - the highly anticipated outcome of all braces-users - prettier & healthier teeth. Of course, you can't expect your teeth to become straight over one night. However, you can definitely feel the excitement as you notice how the gaps between your teeth close over time, and surely, your teeth gets into good alignment slowly. (Though as contradicting as this may sound, your teeth actually moves pretty quickly after you put the braces on.) You'll have better oral hygiene too - crooked teeth are harder to be kept clean!


The nasty criticisms and probing will finally cease. One of the greatest struggle we all face with crooked teeth - but people will (usually & finally) keep their mouths shut after you get braces. Remember how your relatives or friends would always ask when you are putting on braces?  There, they finally got their answers!


You gain more confidence in yourself. After getting braces, it is no doubt that you will start being less mindful of how you look with your teeth and smile with confidence. Or should I say, you'll probably feel proud of your braces and "show then off".  (No more envying & being jealous of people with braces or perfect teeth!)


Positivity, positivity and more positivity! After being confident, you'll find yourself looking at things in a more positive manner than before! You know that your teeth will be beautiful. You know that no one will judge you further.  You know that it is perfectly alright to show your teeth now.  You know that you look fine with braces.  You know that people are gonna be envious of your teeth in the future. You know that you can smile - a gorgeous smile.


Of course, what does positiveness and confidence lead to? Happiness for sure! You'll realise how happy you are with your braces as compared to the past without it. In the past, all you felt were sadness and feelings of envy, which probably made you "depressed" about an unattainable nice set of teeth.  But that's okay. Braces will be there to cure all of these negativity and unhappiness!


Lastly, what could be more enjoyable than picking different colours for the bands of your braces every month? It is important to have our braces tightened once a month (depending on your orthodontist) - and this is the time when you get to choose your colour of the month! (I loved my visits back then because I was always so excited to pick a different colour, and you can mix the colours too!) 


Sure, these are not the only reasons why you should get braces - but are definitely few of the best reasons (in my opinion)



What about the other significant benefits after you finish your braces treatment?

1. You'll have no more troubles chewing or biting down food - especially hard food - since your teeth are well aligned after the braces treatment.

2. You'll feel more comfortable because you won't necessarily feel any teeth sticking out everywhere with your tongue.  (I hated how I'd feel almost all my teeth sticking out at different places in the past)

3. Your lips & jaw line will probably look better after that. This depends on the severity of your crooked teeth previously - I was told by my orthodontist that misalignment of teeth causes your lips and jaw to look unsymmetrical or "wrong", and it got better with braces!

4. You'll realise how you are able to speak with better clarity as compared to the days with crooked teeth. With the gaps between your teeth closed, it is easier to pronounce certain words.

5. More comfort when brushing your teeth! You can hardly feel any pain in your gums like those felt before braces. Crooked teeth somewhat causes the gums to be really weak and sore, hindering you from brushing very hard since the gums from the gaps will ache .

6. Surely, you'll hear people telling you that your teeth looks so good now and that you have a pretty smile!

With so many benefits physically and mentally, braces are definitely worth your money.  It is every owner-of-crooked-teeth's dream to have them!

Read my experience with braces here


How long does a braces treatment take?
Very often, braces treatment lasts for 2 to 3 years. However, it is possible to take them off after a year plus if your orthodontist gives the green light. On the other hand, it is possible to extend the treatment until you are satisfied with how your teeth looks.  (Most dentists will ask you if you are satisfied with your teeth when the time comes)
It is also possible to have your braces treatment last more than 3 years if your teeth were severely misaligned.  Nevertheless, patience is key.

On top of that.. Just like it takes two hands to clap in a relationship, you have a part in taking good care of your teeth as well. It is important that you brush your teeth properly and floss between your braces brackets often using a floss brush. 
You'll also have to remember to put on retainers after your braces are removed. This prevents your teeth from shifting back to its original state. (Clearly, you wouldn't want that to happen.. So it is best that you listen to your orthodontist's advises) 
Retainers are worn for a lifetime. Depending on the severity of your teeth previously, some may only need to wear them at night when they sleep; while some people, for the first 6 months (like myself), are required to wear them for a full day daily - except meal times and when they brush their teeth. It may feel like a burden at first, but you'll definitely get used to it.




What are the struggles you will face with braces?
Braces may have its own struggles and cause inconvenience to us, such as having food stucked in your braces most of the times and usually having ulcers (such a pain in the butt!) 
But think again. Why not tolerate these minor struggles for 2 to 3 years and get a beautiful set of teeth for the rest of your life? Struggles can be adapted over time.. But what's more appealing than the result you'll see after you take off your braces? 

You'll definitely not regret putting on braces.. You'll probably be glad, and you'll miss them once you have them taken off.




How much do braces cost?
Usually, the traditional metal braces are more popular and in a way, cheaper. If you are facing financial difficulties, you can get a referral letter from your school's dentist or wherever, and head down to Singapore's National Dental Centre. They offer government subsidies with the condition that you wait in the queue for your turn. (Usually at least a year and a half or if you are lucky then less than that)
The average fee is around 3.5k (varies accordingly), which can be paid by instalments. The package includes subsequent consultation fees, materials, as well as your retainers - but excludes any extraction or tooth surgery charges. There will most likely be a first consultation fee (very often less than $100) during your first visit, whereby your orthodontist examines your teeth and decide what treatment to be done for you. (I believe there might be some other materials cost too, but it depends)
Once your treatment starts, at times during subsequent visits, you'll have to pay a few dollars for certain braces materials that may be used by your orthodontist which are necessary for you.
I've heard that some private dental clinics also offer braces treatment at affordable rates similar to NDC, which are also payable via monthly instalment. You'll just have to conduct some research and source for them. 



Therefore, if you are in need of braces or considering to get braces, go ahead and do so!!  There are even people out there who put on braces solely for fun and for a different look (rich people I assume....) 


You won't regret it.  Trust me, I am so much more happier with my teeth now!  (Here is the post on my experience with braces)



So don't worry... Brace yourself and Smile! 


Related Posts: 13 Struggles only people with Crooked Teeth will understand My experience with Braces | I could finally smile

4 Simple Steps of a Daily Make-up Routine: Achieving The Korean Dewy look

At some point of time, every girl wants to doll-up
HOW TO ACHIEVE A SIMPLE KOREAN DEWY LOOK IN JUST 15 MINUTES

4 STEPS ONLY! QUICK & EASY JUST FOR YOU! 
If you are searching for a make-up routine that is very simple, quick & easy and last but not least, not heavy or fanciful, this is what I recommend you! This make-up is also suitable for "korean-wannabes" who are looking for a Korean dewy look. Perfect for a poly or university student searching for a simple look, suitable for work & outings with friends too! 




What you will need:  *CC stands for Colour Control


1. CC Cream Starter/Make-up base  (I am using the FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop - Read review here)


2. CC Cream  (I am using the FACE it Aura Colour Control Cream from The Face Shop - Review to be posted up soon) Note: This can be replaced with a BB cream, but I would suggest using a CC cream (to be explained further soon when I do a review.) as it is lighter and less thick. Foundation will make your face look cakey, however it is fine to use it on certain areas. (Some people use foundation to cover parts they don't want to "glow" so much)


3. Brown Eyebrow Pencil  (I am using the Browmaster Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil, 02 Dark Brown, from The Face Shop - no intention to do a review yet)  Note: The flat tip kind or any eyebrow kit works just fine. It's up to your own preference or just use what you have always been using)


4. Lipstick  (I am using the FACE it Lesson 03 Artist Touch Lipstick, PK102, from The Face Shop, review to be done soon) Note: You can use any colour of your own preference, but I would suggest orangey pink to pinkish red if you are going for the Korean look,



Before you put on your make-up...
Make sure that you have already thoroughly cleansed your face and carried out your daily skincare routine. If not, at least be sure to put on your toner and moisturiser AFTER cleansing.
The skincare products I use in my routine make my face a little glowy even before putting on any make-up, so the CC cream acts like a finisher for me in terms of brightening my face complexion and slightly reducing any redness or blemishes.



So now let's get started!
You can scroll down to watch my video instead, or read the steps written here.




Step 1: 
After applying your usual toner, moisturiser and whatever extra goody products you may have, let them set in for about 5 to 10 minutes. (If you have the time then 15 minutes). This is to let your skin absorb whatever they need to first before any make-up "erases" them off.
When that is done, start by using the Aqua CC starter - apply it all over your face and neck. You don't need to squeeze out too much of an amount, just a little 1 - 1.5cm size of amount is good enough.
Note: You can use it as a finisher (after your usual skincare routine) without the CC cream if you think that it is sufficient for your look or complexion.  (Highly recommended to use this make-up base before the CC cream as it keeps your face hydrated and moisturised.)



Step 2:
Apply CC cream all over your face and neck, make sure to blend them properly and evenly. When you're done, dab some cream on the contours of your eyes, near your bottom eyelids as well as on your top eyelids. (See video for clearer reference)
This helps to brighten up your eyes and make them look more refreshed.  (The CC cream acts as an eye concealer for me, but you can top it off with a concealer if you think that your dark circles need further coverage) 
While you're still at this step, dab some CC cream around your lips and its corners as well.  (You will find out why later on in Step 4)



Step 3:
Draw your eyebrows! If your eyebrows are perfectly thick and flawless, you can skip this step. For people (like myself) who needs to darken your eyebrows, you can do it the way you like. (Thumbs-up for straight eyebrows because it makes you look more like a Korean!)
Beginners can look for a better explanation online on how to draw perfect eyebrows - dont worry, everything starts out weird, but practice makes perfect, right!



Step 4:
The very last step is applying your lipstick. You can apply a thin layer of lip balm before your lipstick (it is good as it keeps your lips moisturised)
Dab/stain your lipstick onto the inner parts of your lips at the center (It need not be a thick layer - you can make necessary additions if required later on) 
So now, use your fingers and spread out the "stain" across your lips. (You can smudge them by closing your lips and rubbing them together slowly)
Remember in step 2? I said to dab some CC cream around your lips... This is to enhance the colour of your lipstick and make them look less fuller and look gradient. (Just like Koreans!!!) 
After which, finish up by dabbing a little bit of CC cream at the corners of your mouth and under your bottom lip. This helps to make your lips look more defined and thinner. You can replace this step with a concealer. You can dab a little bit of CC cream or concealer around areas you want your lips to look more gradient or defined.


NOTE:
YOU CANNOT MISS THIS STEP OUT. (Unless you are saying that you are allergic to lipsticks, or simply hate it to the core... But I guess it's fine if you have a naturally beautiful & pinkish lips)

Why? Of course, it's a very trendy style of Korean's make-up these days. But it also adds colour & "life" to your face. 
Trust me, girls look beautiful with lipstick. You can choose a lighter shade for a simple & gentle look, a darker one for a bolder look. Whatever it is, lipsticks are a must-have in every girl's bag, home, dressing table. Even pocket. Even if you don't put on make-up, at least put on a lipstick - you'll see how different & lively you look! 




Now... If you are still unclear, simply click "play" on my video below: (Though, it is not a very detailed tutorial with regards to explanations.)



With that, I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and learnt something useful!

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here for more updates & don't forget to like my video!


Product Reviews: FACE it Aqua CC Starter from The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream from The Face Shop

 Others to be updated soon, you can follow this blog for more updates if you are keen.

Related Posts to Cosmetics: The Face Shop FACE it Aqua CC Starter Review The Face Shop FACE it Aura CC Cream Review Plaza Singapura SaSa Cosmetics SG - Customer Service

Why Celery is as important as Salary // Benefits of Celery; Let's be healthy!

So as you can see from the title, today I'll be sharing with you guys the reason why I love to eat Celeries & why they are good for you! I'll assume that 70% of you guys would go  


"Ewww, celery is the most disgusting vegetable ever.", 

"EWW I HATE HATE HATE CELERIES THE MOST."



It saddens me when my friends ask me why the hell do I love to eat them because celeries are awful. However, IT IS DEFINITELY NOT TRUE.


(SCROLL DOWN IF YOU ONLY WISH TO KNOW THE BENEFITS OF EATING CELERIES)



I understand that perhaps it's because of the (you may call it) "weird" taste in celeries, especially if they were bought outside (cooked). For example, mixed economical rice, or in certain "Tze Char" dishes.

But you got to trust me that if you buy the celeries and cook them yourself at home, it's a totally different taste! There isn't any weird taste that you usually encounter. My dad and brother can validate this fact. There was a time when I made breakfast for them, and I included celery in my stir-fry with tomatoes. They told me that they loved it, and that there weren't any weird taste which celeries usually have. (Yay!!!! CELERIES CAN BE DELICIOUS TOO)

I'm honesty uncertain of the reason why they magically taste alright, but I seriously believe that cooking celeries by yourself is the main reason. As someone who isn't picky with food especially with vegetables, I could just eat them raw.

However, what I often do ever since I started this habit of eating celeries is to stir-fry them with tomatoes. (Celery & Tomatoes chopped into small pieces)








Definitely, it helps in getting rid of the weird taste you dislike. I've tried out various recipes of my own that includes celeries in a few, and below are some photos. Celery goes well with almost everything and practically anything I swear!!! #BrayCooks on instagram to look at some other photos. :)









Now moving on...


Benefits
How do celeries benefit your health? Why eat celeries?



I did some online research, and felt that the information I found wee all pretty accurate based on my own experiences.


1. Firstly, they help alot in maintaining your weight. Afterall, they are light-weight unlike your regular heavy meals. If you are eating clean, I recommend celeries. Personally, I'll always feel less bloated when I substitute 2/3 of my meal with celeries. Were they filling for me, actually? I'd say yes. I feel that it's a good choice if you wish to eat moderately too. Or, you can eat more celeries in one meal to keep you full for a couple to 3 hours. Being someone whose digestive system is so poor and gets bloated easily, I really enjoyed including celeries in my meals since they help me in many ways.

Do you know? One large stalk contains only 10 calories? Therefore the more you substitute your ingredients with celeries, the fuller you get and yet the less calories intake than usual. If you are inactive or use less energy than your calories intake each day, perhaps eating celeries would help prevent you from overeating!


2. Celery reduces inflammation. Therefore, eating more of them would help reduce pains in joints, asthma, and even reduce acne! To be honest I could see that my complexion got better ever since I started eating alot of celeries. (Plus point there!!!)


3. It kind of relieves your stress as well. It is said that if you consume a celery-based snack in the evening, you'll sleep better at night. I'll admit that it worked for me because I noticed how well I slept on nights when I consumed a 75% celery-filled meal after my workouts.


4. Of course it aids in digestion. It definitely helped me because like I said, I feel less bloated as I consume more celeries.


5. (Based on the research I did) The salt in celery is organic, natural and essential for your health. You know what this means right? :)


6. Celery helps in protecting your eyes and provides you with essential Vitamin A!!!


7. Celery reduces cholesterol & blood pressure too, so if you are considering to whip up a meal for someone with high cholestrol/blood pressure or the elderly, celery is a must-use ingredient! It is best eaten raw for lowering blood pressure effectively.

8. Lastly, regular intake of celery helps in the delaying of formation of breast cancer cells. (HELLO GIRLS OUT THEREEEEEEEE)




Yes, celery is really beneficial to your health and for sure, they are tasty and not as bad as you think!!!! I hope this post managed to tempt some of you to try out a diet with celeries. ;)

Remember, celery is just as important as your salary. You have to be healthy with the help of celery, to be able to use your salary. ;)