![Cool 8)](./images/smilies/icon_cool.gif)
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
I wasn't happy with my smile for a long time already, and avoided pictures or kept my mouth shut. If there was one thing about myself that i wanted to change it were my teeth, especially this one upper one that kind of sticks out due to overcrowding. I already thought about it for a while, but had to have a lot of dental work done first, so i spent the last year getting everything fixed and finally I was ready to focus on braces again. I was excited about fixing my overcrowding problem.
On monday i got my upper and lower braces and spacers. The upper braces are clear and the lower ones are the stainless-steel ones. Other than the crowding, i have a cross-bite on the left and an open bite. One of the premolars on my upper left will be extracted in the coming weeks. The orthodontist recommended getting the braces on for now to get everything moving, so that it will be easier to extract the tooth.
I have to say, that it's harder than I thought it would be. Of course I didn't think it was funny business, but I had no idea! The impact on my confidence was earth-shattering and i am still pretty down about everything. I am looking forward to getting my teeth fixed of course, but it's tough for me so far. It hurts, (I think mostly those spacers) and chewing is absolutely impossible. Eating is just absolutely uncool and for someone who loves eating and cooking, this is really discouraging. Hopefully this will get better soon..(and how long can 2 years be?
![Shocked :shock:](./images/smilies/icon_eek.gif)
My lower lip is very angry right now and woke me up tonight. I had to go and put some wax on the lower front brackets in order to sleep.
I went ahead and bought this Waterpik appliance, which seems very helpful so far. I am using a Sonicare toothbrush already and it works like a charm. I really have a problem flossing though. It was already hard without the braces (due to the crowding) but i have no idea how to do it now. I tried yesterday and it was largely unsuccesful and i started bleeding at the one side I tried on.
I also noticed that my blue mouthwash isn't probably the best choice.
![Rolling Eyes :roll:](./images/smilies/icon_rolleyes.gif)
It really helps me to read about all your experiences and tips and I am looking forward to "hanging out" with you guys during the next 2 years. (I got 18-24 months scheduled)
My next appointment is in 13 days from now.
-Bracy