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I'm 40 and was braced at 37 I'm nearing the end now...about time...it's been nearly three years! I have had 5 teeth removed and the last gap is finally almost closed (teeth were straightened ages ago...!)
I just wanted to say that this is probably one of the best things I have ever done for myself...I'm a mum of 3 and am always so busy...should've done this when I was 13 but had scoliosis so was having treatment for that and couldn't do it all! I have close friends I've met since being braced and they just know me as me and don't think of my teeth...and the ones I had before dont ever mention it they're so used to it! I'm an actor too..on stage (I have ceramics) they are invisible...speaking clearly was a problem at first but now I've got it sorted.
Good luck...it's so worth it!
5 teeth out during Feb 07
Ceramics top and bottom Friday 9 March 2007
Braces removed (!!) and permanent retainers fitted Monday 24 May 2010
Today was the day for me...March 25. Hopefully in two years on this date I will be able to say to myself it was well worth it.
I had ceramic on top and metal on bottom to fix severe overcrowding issues.
I have one main question for anybody. My top teeth are fairly straight, but my front bottom teeth are significantly higher than the rest of my bottom teeth. The braces now make me want to bite down like I'm supposed to know which is great in the front, but none of my back teeth come together.
When can I expect this situation to improve because I cannot put any teeth together for chewing. I had some chicken rice soup and all I could do was move it around in my mouth until it dissolvs. It's really annoying. Is this normal?
Congrats on getting braced! Yes, it's very common for tops and bottoms not to line up properly after getting braced. Many see improvement within a few weeks, but it varies. In the meantime, eat soft foods and cut it into small pieces. If you experience soreness, otc pain meds help a lot, as does the wax to alleviate cheek/lip irritation. I found that staying hydrated and keeping bottled water handy was very helpful, especially in the beginning.
I'm nearing the end now...about time...it's been nearly three years! I have had 5 teeth removed and the last gap is finally almost closed (teeth were straightened ages ago...!) 