Brace day is tommorow

[dojo]

Well, am not getting braced now, but I'd like to wish you BEST OF LUCK. Be confident in your choice, try to think about the good things, when you won't be too happy with your treatment, communicate with your orthodontist and always have the results in your mind. Think positively and all this time will pass

[ArchWired28]

workingmomma

congrats and welcome! First weeks may be tough, but it will get better eventually.
I am also curious about the bite plate. Is it something they give you to cover the back teeth and fix an overbite? Anyway, I hope it won't shift for you LOL

[workingmomma]

Hi all,

The bite plate that I have is almost like a retainer. It sets behind my top teeth and keeps my bottom ones from going behind them when I bite down. More than anything, it changes the way I chew. Thank you for all the warm wishes. I really appreciate them.. Has anyone else had problems with family understanding why you're getting/ have gotten braces?

Working momma

[ArchWired28]

Has anyone else had problems with family understanding why you're getting/ have gotten braces?

Do you have problems?

Although my family knows very well that I got braces to help my TMJ pain (and they are doing the job!), I think deep down they can't help that "she has nothing better to waste her money at" attitude.
Also, I hear this a lot: "but your teeth are straight, why do you need braces?" I am tired of explaining that the worst bite problems are usually not visible without assessing how the back teeth occlude.
And finally, I am very hesitant to talk to anybody about the price, because I see their eyes rolling out even before I hear that WoW sigh. Yes, I pay for my own braces and no, I am not rich, but unless you have been through what I have been with the TMJ pain - don't tell me this is too much.

[workingmomma]

I haven't had problems per se, but like you I definately got the impression that they thought it was all for cosmetic reason. Despite the fact that I have lots of cross bites, buck teeth, and TMJ. Also, I haven't mentioned the price to anyone (except my husband) because I know they would stroke out if they knew how expensive they are. No one in his family has had braces (with the exception of my sister in law who like me, married into the family). I think that's part of the issue. They have never considered braces for themselves and don't know how it all works when it comes to orthodontics.

[workingmomma]

@ Gramma -- Thank You! I finally got it to work.

[Ringworm139]

It's nice to know I am not the only one. We were very poor growing up and couldn't afford regular dental care let alone ortho so at 29, I am playing catch up. It's nice to know its not to late to have a beautiful smile.

[kellyb]

hey all,

can i be your braces buddy too
i got my lowers (ceramics) fitted on 07th Jan. uppers to be done in march. expected duration of treatment is 18 months. i had some tenderness for the first 3 days after they were fitted but by the 4th day i could eat most things i ate before without any issues. my first adjustment is 11th feb. looking forward to it already

p.s. i am 32 years old!

[workingmomma]

@ ringworm- You most definately aren't the only one playing catchup. I'm in the same boat. Plus, You'll have a great smile when you turn 30!

@ KellyB- Sure! congrats on getting your lowers done! I swear the I ate my first real meal last friday. It was barbeque and it was the great to be able to eat something solid. How are you feeling? If you don't mind my asking, why are they waiting until March to do you uppers?