My heart goes out to you. Hang in there and read some of the amazing stories about the journeys many have been on and are on while braced. Some have had quite invasive procedures and just look at their smiles! It is comforting to know we are not alone. If it were not for the handholding, the pictures, the advise, the information from this site (and my hubby

), I'd have many more questions and tons of doubt, especially, "What the heck did I do, what the heck are they doing to me?"
For all of us, this journey is a positive step towards good health and a great smile. This cannot be achieved simply. It takes time, a lot of work, time and a lot of patience (not so easy for an A type like myself

), effort (brushy, brushy, flossy, flossy (ain't that a new experiene?!) and time. Did I mention time??
The first weeks suck, no doubt. The pain goes away; your cheeks and tongue get used to the hardware.
Treat yourself well: get a smoothie, an advil, perhaps a massage. Be comforted by the group here.
Trust me, I'm writing this as much for me as anyone who is on the journey. It's a big step. I'm only 3 weeks in (4 if you count those evil spacers) and just now beginning think life is ok in full metal with a TPA (just installed 2 days ago).
ok, I'll step off the soapbox now

Feb 12 '08: Full Metal Upper & Lower
Mar 04 '08: TPA until crossbite is corrected
Feb 03 '09: TPA removed: out of crossbite!!
Feb 12 '10: Sentence 24 months give or take
Sep 21 '09: BRACES REMOVED!!