Week 8 Update + 1st Day Pic

Tuesday I saw Dr. Johnson and he was really pleased with the progress.  He mentioned that the front teeth can be challenging, but mine have moved nicely!  I felt great :)  Then, my balloon of joy slowly deflated...


Three major things happened next 1) new, thicker wires 2) power chain on the bottom and 3) rubber bands. 

Having the old wire removed was uncomfortable, but it was nice to be wire free for a few seconds.  Then came the new wire.  It did not go in as smoothly as the first wire!  Lots of pushing and pressing.  I was afraid she was was going to call someone from the front desk for extra manpower.  It was so painful my eyes started tearing.  The wire is significantly thicker than the first one and it had the pain to go with it.  I felt the pressure and pain immediately, but that wasn't the worst part. 

Next he said I needed a power chain to close up the small spaces at the bottom of my teeth.  His assistant (Veronica) then cut off a small power chain that was about 1".  I thought it was going in front of the first four teeth at the bottom.  Veronica was taking some time while she installed them and the pain was increasing ten fold all over the bottom teeth and that's when I realized she was stretching that little power chain around every bracket on the bottom.  OUCH!!!!!!!! Power chains come in all colors.  Initially I was happy with my color choice but now I realize I should have asked for a more noticeable color because after a bowl of soup, they stained :(  So currently the front are white and the back are a yellow color.  I think I'll go with red next time - at least it will be so dark that you can't see a change if they stain. 

As the visit was coming to an end, Dr. Johnson said I needed to start on rubber bands to bring down some teeth.  Weeeee!  I've always wanted to wear them.  Veronica showed me how to put them on and told me to wear them all the time. After they were on I instantly noticed more resistance on one side, which means one tooth is higher than the other.  Yet more proof I am more snaggly than previous thought ;)

Day 1



Day 56

The bands and power chain combined were the worst part of the whole visit.   After it was over, my head felt like one of those headaches you get when you're out in the sun too long mixed with a hungry headache.  It was a painful visit but eating wasn't a problem.  Advil helped me get through the night.  I highly recommend taking something 10-15 minutes before you go to bed. 

Today was virtually pain free.  My teeth are used to the new rubber additions.  No headaches or toothache...until I ate!  The back teeth and entire lower jaw are like landmines.  As soon as the slightest pressure is put on, BOOM!  It is worse than the first day I had my braces.  All attempts at eating have proved futile, and my food is cold by the time I make it halfway through.  That's okay, one year of discomfort is a small price to pay.