I had the same thoughts when my dentist suggested it, but fortunately nowadays we have more choices for doing it.
I don't know where you live and how much you can expend in it, but I've decided to use these removable invisible aligners (like Invisalign) and had no regrets. They're faster to do their job, more trustable to get the alignment you need and, well, they're not too visible as regular braces.
As other people said, correcting your teeth is something you will enjoy for the rest of your life. So, if you can afford invisible aligners and can follow their instructions (like using them for 20h per day, regularly brushing your teeth etc), I totally recommend going this way.
Besides what method you'll choose, remember that everyone of them is temporary and you'll be really happy with the results in the near future. I get the concern about what other people will think, but you should remember you're doing something for you and to feel happier with yourself! :)
For sure guinea pigs would evolve into capybaras