Making the BIG decision and Week 1

My lower teeth have always been too crowded for my mouth, and I needed to do something before gum disease took over and my teeth fell out! Also, my upper teeth, once nice and straight, slowly moved into weird positions. It was time to do something!

Considering my options. I was initially interested in Invisalign because of one main reason: I don't want to have a metal mouth. I found an orthodontist in town who was trained in the Invisalign system, and I scheduled my first visit. He told me that I would not be a candidate because my crowding was too severe. Since I would need extractions, he didn't think Invisalign would be my best choice, I was quite disappointed and I went home to think about it.

Taking action. I thought about the pros and cons of traditional braces for about a week. The ortho had said that I would most likely require the extraction of my lower incisor and that my treatment time would about two years. It was a daunting thought - just thinking about the extraction made me want to cry. However, my desire to have straight teeth won out, and I made the call for my next appointment.

Going to the first appointment. The ortho had a plan of action - he wanted to get me used to braces and not scare me and so we started slow. On 2/7/2008, my lowers got braced. I chose light pink bands since Valentine's day was just around the corner!

Living with braces. The first few days of getting my lowers braced were BRUTAL!!!! The day I got them was Chinese New Year and Alex made a seafood feast...but all I could eat was rice and soup.

Day 2 was bad too. My teeth and gums were so tender and I was getting bad headaches. I thought to myself..."What the f%@k was I thinking?!?!" I was actually quite pissed and frustrated at myself.

Day 3 and 4 were the same. I was still on soft foods. I was hating it more and more each day...not only was I on soft foods, my inner cheeks were all cut up from the sharp points of the brackets.

Finally, some relief! My teeth and gums are feeling much better on day 5. I am eating more normally now...thank GOD!! Because you know how I LOVE to eat!!

My next appointment is on 2/28/2008. I believe my uppers will be braced that day. I can't wait!