I had stressed out about this moment for weeks....it was a long and uncomfortable process getting everything placed, but once it was done, I felt like a new woman
The first thing I did was run to a mirror to check out the newly foreign objects in my mouth that are going to help shape my new smile. I got ceramics on top (social 
and bottom (premolars and molars - metal). I'm so happy to have finally gotten this far and can't wait to see the progress. 
I'm still kind of shy about showing people my new braced face and am speaking with a slur because I'm not used to having so much stuff in my mouth. How long did it take you guys to overcome the shyness? What are some ways/methods to deal with approaching people and their reactions to your braces? I've come right out and told a few people who I've spoken with face to face and can see them clearly but don't feel exactly comfortable in a large room with people I work with who have never seen me this way before. Do you just tell people, or let them stare and wonder?
I also am experiencing some pain when I clench down on my teeth or try to bite/chew. I've been on a soup/liquid diet since yesterday. How long does it take for the pain to go away and/or to be able to eat normal foods again?
Also - I am having the hardest time flossing! It takes me forever to floss and find it so difficult flossing using a threader on the premolars and molars. What type of floss do you use and which methods are the most effective/easiest? Should I invest in a Waterpik in addition to flossing?
One last question: My cleaning routine has always been in this order -
- Brush
- Floss
- Mouthwash
However I notice that most folks here, floss and then brush? Does it matter?
I'm so happy to be sharing my journey with you all. Thanks for all your support!
