In a different thread, Silvergirl mentioned that this time in braces is a transformational time for her -- she's having braces *and* getting a teaching certificate at the same time. That's so great! My big goal for my time in braces was to grow my hair longer. LOL!
You've got me thinking, Silvergirl -- this really is a good time to make other life changes too. Two years is long enough to start a whole new career! Is anyone else doing anything transformational while they have braces on their teeth?
Transformation time
Moderator: bbsadmin
-
VancouverJude
- Posts: 98
- Joined: Thu Jul 29, 2010 12:24 am
Transformative times indeed.
I'm getting my braces on Oct 6th and sometime this Winter I may be having laser eye surgery! I'm -9 in both eyes (simply put: pretty awful) with astigmatism. With the surgery I'll likely get away with just reading glasses.
I had an appointment just today to see an eye specialist -- a 3.5 month wait -- about clear lens extraction (basically cataract surgery before the cataracts develop.) My Opthamologist referred me.
The Dr didn't think it was a good idea to do the extraction at my (relatively) young age of 47 because of the increased risk of the retina tearing. He did however think PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) would be swell. Dr Holland actually has two practices the "serious case" one I was at today which needs a Dr/Optometrist referral and the Pacific Laser Eye Centre where 'anyone' can go to. So I'm now set for another full exam (no charge) at the eye centre on Oct 5th (day before brace day!)
The cost will be much less at the eye centre (about 4k) and Dr Holland is extremely adept so if I proceed I'll be in good hands. I certainly won't set up any appointment until my braces are comfy and under control.
Beside from this great news -- I can't see a thing w/out my specs -- I'm also looking for work, having been laid off from my last two jobs in these recessionary times. It's not dire, I'm actually somewhat enjoying being on unemployment insurance for the first time ever, but I do hope to be working sooner than later. With luck at a place that has a dental plan!
I'm getting my braces on Oct 6th and sometime this Winter I may be having laser eye surgery! I'm -9 in both eyes (simply put: pretty awful) with astigmatism. With the surgery I'll likely get away with just reading glasses.
I had an appointment just today to see an eye specialist -- a 3.5 month wait -- about clear lens extraction (basically cataract surgery before the cataracts develop.) My Opthamologist referred me.
The Dr didn't think it was a good idea to do the extraction at my (relatively) young age of 47 because of the increased risk of the retina tearing. He did however think PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) would be swell. Dr Holland actually has two practices the "serious case" one I was at today which needs a Dr/Optometrist referral and the Pacific Laser Eye Centre where 'anyone' can go to. So I'm now set for another full exam (no charge) at the eye centre on Oct 5th (day before brace day!)
The cost will be much less at the eye centre (about 4k) and Dr Holland is extremely adept so if I proceed I'll be in good hands. I certainly won't set up any appointment until my braces are comfy and under control.
Beside from this great news -- I can't see a thing w/out my specs -- I'm also looking for work, having been laid off from my last two jobs in these recessionary times. It's not dire, I'm actually somewhat enjoying being on unemployment insurance for the first time ever, but I do hope to be working sooner than later. With luck at a place that has a dental plan!
I actually had laser eye surgery before I had braces, when I was 26. It was definitely one of the best things I've ever done. It doesn't hurt, only takes a few minutes, and leaves you with great vision. I had really awful vision, especially in my right eye, so it's not perfect, but I think it saved a lot of money. Anyway, I'm 29 and have not had my braces on very long, but I'm hoping it will be another great decision even though it cost more than my eye surgery. But I do have a transformational thing. While I have braces, I'm studying for a Master's degree in forensic psychology. Now, THAT is expensive. I know I'll finish the degree before my braces come off and I'm worried about people not taking me seriously with metal braces on job interviews, but I guess I don't have to worry yet.
-
VancouverJude
- Posts: 98
- Joined: Thu Jul 29, 2010 12:24 am
Re: Transformation time
And a bit jump forward 10 months!
I recently rediscovered this posting. I decided not to go for any sight correction at this point in time after a few consultations. I am, however, in the market for new eyewear right now...OMG...worse than trying on swimsuits.
I may actually get a pair of round frames for a totally different look. Either in black or tortoise shell. Tortoise looks warmer on my face, but black is both subtle and rock and roll.
And speaking of transformations, my body has slimmed down a couple of inches all over (er, not height!) so that's actually a nice bonus. The "braces diet" has me re-evaluating just how much snacks I want to eat; eating less sugary foods; and being all round more healthy. Alas, I'm eating way less fruit and salad is an adventure. All this said, when I see a plate of something I really want to eat, I don't have any trouble getting it down.
I'm now wearing the Forus springs (gah, a necessary evil) which so far isn't too bad. I've found the teeth moving part of braces is a cake walk, the pokey bits are the killer.
Oh yeah! I also did find work too <grin.>
I recently rediscovered this posting. I decided not to go for any sight correction at this point in time after a few consultations. I am, however, in the market for new eyewear right now...OMG...worse than trying on swimsuits.
I may actually get a pair of round frames for a totally different look. Either in black or tortoise shell. Tortoise looks warmer on my face, but black is both subtle and rock and roll.
And speaking of transformations, my body has slimmed down a couple of inches all over (er, not height!) so that's actually a nice bonus. The "braces diet" has me re-evaluating just how much snacks I want to eat; eating less sugary foods; and being all round more healthy. Alas, I'm eating way less fruit and salad is an adventure. All this said, when I see a plate of something I really want to eat, I don't have any trouble getting it down.
I'm now wearing the Forus springs (gah, a necessary evil) which so far isn't too bad. I've found the teeth moving part of braces is a cake walk, the pokey bits are the killer.
Oh yeah! I also did find work too <grin.>
-
Jensniffer
- Posts: 87
- Joined: Mon May 16, 2011 5:22 pm
- Location: BC Canada
Re: Transformation time
my braces were the second part of my transformation, I lost 70 pounds and started gaining a lot of self confidence, decided that I wanted to have a great smile to go along with my awesome new shape 
Re: Transformation time
@Jensniffer, wow, 70lbs?! That's amazing, congratulations! You must be thrilled.
