Newbie here -- intro, metro DC, 30-something

[sunshine33]

Hi everyone! First, I want to say that I am so grateful that I found this message board. The encouragement and information here is great. I have been through some preliminaries (consults and such) and I am awaiting my braces date in mid-April with ceramic uppers and then ceramic lowers to follow a couple months after that. I am a 30-something in the metro DC area. I would love to hear from other 30-somethings (and up) to hear about how others reacted to you getting braces. I'm not as concerned about the comfort issues -- though I anticipate having pain and difficulty eating, I have waited for as long as I can remember to have a pretty smile, so it's worth it to me -- it's the having other people make comments and such that concern me most. I also work in a "people-oriented" position and I am concerned about having to deal with that too. Thanks for any advice!!!

[erikamsu2006]

Hello everyone, I will be getting braces in the next 3 weeks. I am still trying to decide between the traditional metal braces, and the ceramic braces. Please share your opinoions.

[mary.]

Congratulations! I hope you're excited to be getting braces - it's a great thing that you're doing!

I wasn't sure how people would react as well and was a little intimidated. I got mine last fall and I'm in my late 30s. I deal with a lot of people at work too, so they're very noticeable. To be honest, the only comments I have received have been absolutely fabulous! People are so proud of me, and are very encouraging. I suppose, the fact that I'm really proud and don't hesitate to flash them about contributes : ) I think that you should really look forward to the great compliments and comments that you will receive!