Metal Mouth Message Board

Posted: **Fri Jul 24, 2009 2:23 pm**

Hi-

I just got my braces a little over a week ago. My mouth isn't too sore at this point, and I'm actually starting to get used to them, I think.

My concerns are: I can't get the floss between some of my teeth (flossing has always been an issue for me, but I had been having success with the Reach Access...). In a few cases, the bracket sits right in front of the 'space' between my teeth. At any rate, I assume that when my teeth start moving into position, flossing will become possible/easier - right? In the meantime, I am at least using the little green/white Gum brand picks and several times a week, I dip that in my prescription mouth rinse. (Crossing fingers)

My other concern is: when will I be able to chew again?? With the placement of my brackets, I only have one upper tooth and one lower tooth that touch! They are between the front tooth and the canine on my right side. I despair of my teeth ever moving enough to be able to chew. Did anyone else have to deal with this? How long did it take for you?

Phillip, 45
Seattle

Posted: **Fri Jul 24, 2009 5:04 pm**

within about 4-5weeks the spaces became much larger and flossing is a breeze now!!

biting is another story, I suppose it's different with everyone, I go in spurts, can't bite for a while, then I can for a while, then I can't again........my last adjustment was june 18, couldn't bite with my front teeth for 3 days, then I was fine for 4weeks or so, now in the last few days I can hardly bite down again in the front or on the upper left side........so for me it changes frequently.

good luck to my neighbor to the south!
Christine, 38
Vancouver

Posted: **Sat Jul 25, 2009 3:48 am**

Thanks Christine!

As much as they have been hammering home the message that you need to floss, Floss, FLOSS - I was finding it pretty alarming that I simply Can't at this point. :0

The issue of my upper and lower teeth not touching is getting frustrating. I really am trying to have a good attitude, though... I AM really happy that I haven't had any real trouble with my lips & cheeks as I hear that so many other people do!! But my tongue has gotten pretty sore from where the wraps around my molars stick out away from the teeth. I *think* I read that perhaps they can be filed down somewhat - I hope that's true. I used wax one day, but got worried that I was trapping bacteria against the tooth, so I stopped doing that...

Metal Mouth Message Board

One week & two days

One week & two days