Here we go again (for the third time)

[WiredGrrl]

Hello! I'm newly-wired, having just had upper and lower braces on my front 6 teeth (canine to canine). I'd love to say I'm new to all of this, but I'm not. In fact, this is my third time around, albeit with less chaos and destruction. Hopefully it'll be my last as I've found an ortho I like, and don't intend on moving, and so can return for retainer adjustments etc.

Here's some bg...

10 years old: Insane crossbite, overlapping canine teeth, crossed front teeth causing upper lip pinching, overjet of front teeth, tiny upper pallet creating sinus problems. Hawley retainer, with mini-jaw expander
12 years old: full upper rapid jaw expander. Widened jaw by 1cm over a year.
13 - 15 years old: full upper and lower arch wires, plus elastics.
15 years: Lovely straight teeth! Essix(? Clear) retainer 4 life! No orthodontist where we moved (west Wales). Retainer started to pinch and hurt. Didn't wear them. Teeth moved.
19 years old: impacted wisdom teeth removed
20 years old: Arch wire between molars to "expand" jaw (actually just moved back teeth to create better bite)
21 -22 years old: full upper and lower braces with elastics.
23 years old: semi-permanent bonded lower wire (behind front teeth),
24 years old: finally everything removed. Hawley Retainers 4 life.
25: retainer broke, no money for an orthodontist, teeth moved.

Yes, that is about 10 years of braces. I have really, really stubborn teeth.

Now:
31, Class II malocclusion, no pathology, buccaling is good, bite is acceptable although upper jaw is asymmetrical, overjet, and small gingival recession. Orthodontist recommended 10 months of braces plus at least a year retainer (although we all know that means Retainers 4 Life).

So, basically, there's nothing really "wrong" with my teeth or bite, but the overjet will get worse causing my already-thin lips more difficulty in closing (mouth breathing already a problem). I approached the ortho because I'm financially able to and am self-conscious of my smile as I have a very toothy grin. I only have braces on the front 6 upper and lower teeth, and am hoping for a 10 month treatment plan.

Right now, I am in LOVE with these things. The application was not painful, and I think I look great. I'm more confident WITH braces than when I didn't have them. Weird, huh?

The pain has started, mostly it's itchy and tender, but I'm waiting for the "smacked in the mouth with a brick" sensation tomorrow morning. Perfect start to the weekend!

Thanks for a safe place for brace faces!

[arca]

Good luck. I hope this is the last time you have to do this.

[Ki3L]

Yikes, retainer broke, didn't wear, teeth moved... I better remember that and wear mine after!
What do they say, third times a charm!? Good luck!

[sowonky]

Good luck! I know how you feel about the itchy sensation, I just got mine fitted yesterday. Weirdest feeling ever. I just want to scratch my teeth!!

[aspiromusings]

Good luck!!

[carzfrm60s]

My third time too. I am finding a little more annoying, but also think I'll be more appreciative this time.