First off I would like to say Welcome Aboard to the boards. You've come to the right place for information and this is the site that also gave me motivation to do the whole braces thing. That and the encouraging words from friends, family and my other family *Details to follow*
I see that your 21 years of age, a full time college student, and a full time EMT. That is awesome as I am also 21 years old, a full time college student, and a full time firefighter and work part time in retail sales for Home Depot. Hint thats why above I said my other family, family of firefighters/emt/law enforcement.
Now for the questions. Lets see if I can answer anything!
1. What is the process of getting the molds done and is it really that gross?
This consists of about 3 or 4 minutes with a gooey liqued on a plate that is set in your mouth. It molds very quickly and is painless. Some people say that it leaves a bad aftertaste but when I had mine done I was done in 3 minutes with no bad taste at all.
2. How long does it take for them to get the braces ready after the molds and x-rays are done?
After the molds and x-rays done the orthodontist would normally need some time to review your case and would more then likely call you back for the set-up of braces in about a week. There is a few cases I have read where people went in for x-rays, molds and had there braces put on the same day so I don't really know the true answer to this one.
3. Should I ask any important questions at this appointment?
Ask away, they are there to answer any questions or concerns you may have. One thing that I had a concern for was the case of headgear possibly being used in my case. Well I don't have to so I'm happy knowing that I could have all my firefighter gear on along with the scotairpack while in a burning building without having to wear headgear!
Well I guess thats all for now I look forward to reading more you have to say and answering more of your questions as through as I could.
SDFD TSchott