tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74417565728482116372024-03-17T05:52:29.200+11:00Say Braces!I got braces as an adult to fix my underbite, class III malocussion with clear, ceramic braces only, and this is my braces blog and braces review to make me smile: Say Braces!Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-52370211072657142302012-01-15T21:02:00.000+11:002012-09-16T09:02:55.213+10:00Before and After Braces—Braces Off, Underbite Fixed and The Perfect Teeth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My braces are finally off! They've all come off, and I am completely done with the crooked metal-mouthed smile I once had.</div>
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Replaced with a spread of plastic goodness in the form of my Essix upper retainer...</div>
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Joy! But I'll deal. It has been almost 2 months wearing it full-time now, since I got my uppers off, and that means 1-2 more months of full-time wear, replaced by nighttime wear<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">—</span>for life!</div>
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So, it's a lazy Sunday morning, and as a lazy individual (read: busy), I've decided to finally bite the bullet and find some time in my hectic schedule (read: time meant for sleep) to update my (post-!) braces situation.</div>
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Artist's depiction:</div>
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I sincerely apologise for the delay in posting. I have been really busy and haven't really found a spare second for myself and my friends and my family, let alone my blog readers (you) out there. Thank you for being amazing! Alright, you can put away those sad sounding violins, and I'll get to the post.</div>
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Update, <i>yay</i>! My braces are finally off. I can't stop saying it, really. Almost 2 months later, may I add.</div>
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<i>Sorry for the delay!</i></div>
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They came off on the 22 November, after 9 months and 22 days, and look how pretty my brace-less teeth look!</div>
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I didn't think that this post was too much of an update though, perhaps that's why I've been putting it off. For, you've already seen my uppers naked, mind you!</div>
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For me it was momentous as I had no more hardware in my mouth, but for you, well, I just got my bottom braces off. Seems like hardly a thing to share because everyone is more concerned about their uppers<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">—</span>as far as the fastidious nature of braces is concerned on a direct visual level...</div>
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Nevertheless, braces came off, I became happy. That's the story of happy teeth.</div>
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I'm seeing my orthodontist in (I think) about 3 months from my debanding date, for a check up and to see how things are going. I'm also planning to see my dentist soon for a dental health check up, and perhaps doing something about extreme whitening, but I'm not sure I want to do that with my general dentist. Something more professional perhaps, but that's another story...</div>
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I don't have to wear an Essix retainer on my lowers, as I had a fixed, bonded lingual retainer applied when I got my lower braces off. The fact I don't have to wear another Essix retainer is quite great, but my orthodontist did say a month before I got them off that I'd be getting a lower Essix retainer. I'm not sure why he changed his mind or neglected to let me know why it wouldn't be the case. As I've mentioned, great orthodontist (read: sarcasm).</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-97IKBOfPqjY/TxKZ9iejNFI/AAAAAAAAAcc/NWFmDz-3ZqQ/s1600/braces+fixed+bonded+retainer+after+ceramic+braces+IMG_3770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-97IKBOfPqjY/TxKZ9iejNFI/AAAAAAAAAcc/NWFmDz-3ZqQ/s320/braces+fixed+bonded+retainer+after+ceramic+braces+IMG_3770.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So.</div>
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Keep the comments coming! I'm not too sure when, or if, I'll update anytime soon, but I'll always be here to respond to anything that comes through. I always get email notifications of all your comments, questions, queries, etc. so I'll be sure to respond whenever that happens. And please let it do! I love getting questions and comments, much obliged and happy to respond, all the while through smiling teeth!</div>
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Blatant plug and call for help: something that I ask all you lovely people to do to help me out would be to click on any of the banner the ads you see on my blog. They're not for me or my product or anything to do with me, but I do get a few cents for a click of each different ad, and even more for an email sign up or something like that, so you'd be helping me out a whole lot. Thanks in advance, wonderful people!</div>
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I've collected a rundown of my time in braces, as month-by-month breakdown of my journey from underbite to perfect teeth. Pretty much all photo captions except for the last are hyperlinked, so you can click on them to access the blog posts detailing my blog post for that period of time, which will also open in a new window. The following aren't absolutely all of my posts, just a select few which show the progress update breakdown of the movement of my teeth.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAi2979oiZA/TxKagL5Op9I/AAAAAAAAAck/cNGl49Fb9xQ/s1600/Before+Bite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAi2979oiZA/TxKagL5Op9I/AAAAAAAAAck/cNGl49Fb9xQ/s320/Before+Bite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/virgin-teeth.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Before Bite</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EyvQRTID4ZA/TxKagq8bhUI/AAAAAAAAAcs/WTiUcR_E_gk/s1600/Before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EyvQRTID4ZA/TxKagq8bhUI/AAAAAAAAAcs/WTiUcR_E_gk/s320/Before.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/virgin-teeth.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Before</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XE6mvBe3xUk/TxKa4mxvsXI/AAAAAAAAAeM/YCYdMVcfrJQ/s1600/After+3+Months+of+Plate+Wear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XE6mvBe3xUk/TxKa4mxvsXI/AAAAAAAAAeM/YCYdMVcfrJQ/s320/After+3+Months+of+Plate+Wear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/plate-expander-of-doom.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">After 3 Months Plate Wear</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Sz3wMZvc6U/TxKa6R9FeKI/AAAAAAAAAec/B_GcqeWgIIM/s1600/Day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Sz3wMZvc6U/TxKa6R9FeKI/AAAAAAAAAec/B_GcqeWgIIM/s320/Day+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/brace-myself.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Day 1</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/02/1-month.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">1 Month</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKY55DijQ00/TxKavWNZyQI/AAAAAAAAAc8/RxuP5KYJRGs/s1600/2+Months%252C+7+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKY55DijQ00/TxKavWNZyQI/AAAAAAAAAc8/RxuP5KYJRGs/s320/2+Months%252C+7+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/2-months-7-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">2 Months, 7 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whmO9rZi0SI/TxKawV_ZIoI/AAAAAAAAAdE/r8C4UXYiCR8/s1600/2+Months%252C+28+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whmO9rZi0SI/TxKawV_ZIoI/AAAAAAAAAdE/r8C4UXYiCR8/s320/2+Months%252C+28+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/04/2-months-28-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">2 Months, 28 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAJE61awJG8/TxKaxRnT5AI/AAAAAAAAAdM/GVBZudc7AYc/s1600/3+Months%252C+21+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAJE61awJG8/TxKaxRnT5AI/AAAAAAAAAdM/GVBZudc7AYc/s320/3+Months%252C+21+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/05/3-months-21-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">3 Months, 21 Days</span></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALWcjMO2Hwc/TxKayU0oScI/AAAAAAAAAdU/BuLEHQtWNsk/s1600/4+Months%252C+26+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALWcjMO2Hwc/TxKayU0oScI/AAAAAAAAAdU/BuLEHQtWNsk/s320/4+Months%252C+26+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/06/4-months-26-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">4 Months, 26 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fsyvFyFEVEc/TxKazfwjbjI/AAAAAAAAAdc/cMe0Ra2iaMs/s1600/5+Months%252C+17+Days.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fsyvFyFEVEc/TxKazfwjbjI/AAAAAAAAAdc/cMe0Ra2iaMs/s320/5+Months%252C+17+Days.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/07/5-months-17-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">5 Months, 17 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7RIvSIDlys/TxKa0czT1xI/AAAAAAAAAdk/oS1S-Xi6JvM/s1600/6+Months%252C+14+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7RIvSIDlys/TxKa0czT1xI/AAAAAAAAAdk/oS1S-Xi6JvM/s320/6+Months%252C+14+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/08/6-months-14-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">6 Months, 14 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YExROOHO-tk/TxKa1LwUK3I/AAAAAAAAAds/Rx42xksmvQY/s1600/7+Months%252C+25+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YExROOHO-tk/TxKa1LwUK3I/AAAAAAAAAds/Rx42xksmvQY/s320/7+Months%252C+25+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/09/7-months-25-daysone-month-to-go.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">7 Months, 25 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pE4QrttXj-M/TxKa2CxjkQI/AAAAAAAAAd0/JXtCsRRSTeI/s1600/8+Months%252C+21+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pE4QrttXj-M/TxKa2CxjkQI/AAAAAAAAAd0/JXtCsRRSTeI/s320/8+Months%252C+21+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/10/8-months-21-daysstill-braced-and-lazy.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">8 Months, 21 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JD5p6-T5ZDg/TxKa2yFharI/AAAAAAAAAd4/VCPJm_SxaxE/s1600/9+Months%252C+6+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JD5p6-T5ZDg/TxKa2yFharI/AAAAAAAAAd4/VCPJm_SxaxE/s320/9+Months%252C+6+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/11/9-months-6-daystheyre-coming-off.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">9 Months, 6 Days</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ontq1EQ2c0/TxKa3Qkq94I/AAAAAAAAAeE/3WA7GmC5K0Y/s1600/9+Months%252C+11+Days%25E2%2580%2594Uppers+After.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ontq1EQ2c0/TxKa3Qkq94I/AAAAAAAAAeE/3WA7GmC5K0Y/s320/9+Months%252C+11+Days%25E2%2580%2594Uppers+After.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2011/11/9-months-11-days-laterbraces-are-off.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">9 Months, 11 Days—Uppers After</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE4Y2EtU-ds/TxKgnb8vJSI/AAAAAAAAAes/pRuFo-BP7OM/s1600/Ceramic+Braces+After+9+Months%252C+22+Days.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE4Y2EtU-ds/TxKgnb8vJSI/AAAAAAAAAes/pRuFo-BP7OM/s320/Ceramic+Braces+After+9+Months%252C+22+Days.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After 9 Months, 22 Days</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This seems like a goodbye, but it's more like a see you later. Here's to happy smiling! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTGfNZeCftY/TxKZ5CsSmeI/AAAAAAAAAb0/gcCYgIxFxaU/s1600/braces+before+after+braces+underbite+teeth+smile+IMG_3776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTGfNZeCftY/TxKZ5CsSmeI/AAAAAAAAAb0/gcCYgIxFxaU/s320/braces+before+after+braces+underbite+teeth+smile+IMG_3776.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Salut!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dPa1n59GYOU/TxKTDK1tYII/AAAAAAAAAZk/oNxxzYSSjSg/s1600/toothbrush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dPa1n59GYOU/TxKTDK1tYII/AAAAAAAAAZk/oNxxzYSSjSg/s320/toothbrush.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, I'll leave you with a parting quote I found<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">—</span></div>
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wjhg0LgrdA/TxKZy2cbntI/AAAAAAAAAa8/_bbsQxnzdm0/s1600/braces+before+after+braces+underbite+teeth+smile+IMG_3371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wjhg0LgrdA/TxKZy2cbntI/AAAAAAAAAa8/_bbsQxnzdm0/s320/braces+before+after+braces+underbite+teeth+smile+IMG_3371.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com157tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-23985073980082354662011-11-11T18:55:00.001+11:002011-11-12T16:48:27.713+11:00Retainers—Life After Braces Come Off<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Braces are off. Everything is hunky-dory.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfuankrXnng/TrzpatnC3GI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/VXG1mGuNa24/s1600/IMG_2997+4x6+after+braces+come+off+teeth+smile+underbite+correction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfuankrXnng/TrzpatnC3GI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/VXG1mGuNa24/s320/IMG_2997+4x6+after+braces+come+off+teeth+smile+underbite+correction.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hold the phone.</div>
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Wrong.</div>
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<i>Very </i>wrong.</div>
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Brief and intimately seducing was the smooth and straight feeling and look of a braces-free smile. My upper braces were taken off, I had them removed. The whole thing was dead to me.</div>
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<i>Dead wrong.</i></div>
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It's as if you're partying, and then the alcohol runs out. And even Jesus can't turn your water (newly straight teeth) into wine (forever straight teeth). You weren't even born that way...</div>
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Really, it's just the beginning of the next stage to a straight smile. The most important stage. Retention.</div>
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Shudder.</div>
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You've come this far, to sabotage and lose everything you gained would be mad and idiotic. So I tell myself. And I know this is true... on so many levels. The reality of it is yucky.</div>
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To keep this update brief, I went into my orthodontist yesterday to pick up my Essix retainer. I'm to wear this full-time for 3-4 months.<br />
<br />
Excuse my language, but simply, <i>fuck the world.</i></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XpO7B-02aFU/Trzp1hOYP5I/AAAAAAAAARc/rNZIi4XnE34/s1600/IMG_2988+4x6+braces+after+essix+retainer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XpO7B-02aFU/Trzp1hOYP5I/AAAAAAAAARc/rNZIi4XnE34/s320/IMG_2988+4x6+braces+after+essix+retainer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpqwawbexLo/Trzp2ObNu9I/AAAAAAAAARk/afesmEsk0pk/s1600/IMG_2991+4x6+braces+after+essix+retainer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpqwawbexLo/Trzp2ObNu9I/AAAAAAAAARk/afesmEsk0pk/s320/IMG_2991+4x6+braces+after+essix+retainer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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It looks pretty cool. It looks like very straight teeth. <i>My</i> very straight teeth. And that's not anything to be snickered at.<br />
<br />
Damn, I could really go a Snickers... but I digress.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eigmB27MVMs/Trzp8H_1CwI/AAAAAAAAARs/fC2xC2d-jiw/s1600/IMG_3006+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eigmB27MVMs/Trzp8H_1CwI/AAAAAAAAARs/fC2xC2d-jiw/s320/IMG_3006+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vFLNRTTscpc/Trzp8-uKIII/AAAAAAAAAR0/3yniY8Y_1Nc/s1600/IMG_3009+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vFLNRTTscpc/Trzp8-uKIII/AAAAAAAAAR0/3yniY8Y_1Nc/s320/IMG_3009+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0HI_fJQUXo/Trzp9USvgeI/AAAAAAAAAR8/aRTZXxXgvdk/s1600/IMG_3010+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0HI_fJQUXo/Trzp9USvgeI/AAAAAAAAAR8/aRTZXxXgvdk/s320/IMG_3010+4x6+essix+retainer+clear+after+ceramic+braces+underbite+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
They don't look that bad on. Which wasn't ever my concern. <i>Sort of</i>.<br />
<br />
I knew they wouldn't look that bad. They're clear, after all.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The lisping though, I really do hate. Not more than braces though, so I'll get over it, and used to it, hopefully. And soon, hopefully, too.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I do speak with a slight lisp. It's nowhere near as bad as the plate expander I had to wear in my initial treatment phases, though, that I am grateful for. I know I'll get used to it within a few weeks, just have to practice. A long phone call with my best friend is in order tonight...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also noticing now, just after a day or two of wear, that my lower braces are wearing the plastic away a little, as there are rough bits on the retainer when I run my tongue across it in some places. Slightly disappointed about this, as it will annoy me, looking forward.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I also flagged a slight issue with my orthodontist because my molar teeth had a bit of the, what I refer to as dental cement, still attached, and he happily scratched it away. It's full of fluoride, too, so it's good for your teeth regardless. Gee, thanks, yeah I want rough cement on my teeth for the minuscule flouride benefits? Cool, I'll keep that in mind next time I'm an idiot...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
He also said that I was brushing well because the puffiness in the gums surrounding my molar teeth had reduced since I got the impressions made, and that it's left some space in the back of the retainer around my gums. Which didn't seem an issue, let me add.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fucking hopeless though, I don't think I'll be able to chew gum. Haven't attempted yet. I don't think I'd enjoy it, so I'm in no rush to try.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Also</i>, and this is a very big also, it is the biggest update in my braces lifetime span, so get ready: I have a final debanding date!</div>
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This news, and more news: it's coming up sooner than expected.</div>
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And, she's over the moon!</div>
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<i>22 November</i></div>
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This will be my day.</div>
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I'm getting my lower bands off about a month earlier, as they were scheduled to come off on 20 December. Some precious human being cancelled their debanding appointment. Some divine being asked me to check my next appointment dates at reception. Myself decided to ask if there definitely weren't any earlier debanding appointments. Some wonderful receptionist found a space. And my sometimes lovely orthodontist obliged to it, and took my lower impressions for my bonded retainer that same day. Life is good sometimes.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I'm really happy about this. <i>Really</i> happy. I'm just plain happy that they're coming off and I'll be done with braces for good.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Thank you braces—biggest love-hate relationship to-date<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—</span>but you <i>suck.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Love you.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NctGaEr8rYg/TrzpbEthVPI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/6y6nqIHlGts/s1600/IMG_2999+4x6+braces+after+smile+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NctGaEr8rYg/TrzpbEthVPI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/6y6nqIHlGts/s320/IMG_2999+4x6+braces+after+smile+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-63497842983395001352011-11-09T00:04:00.001+11:002014-07-05T13:45:32.452+10:009 Months, 11 Days Later—Braces Are Off!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Benl9-B9xww/TrkH6bCG2RI/AAAAAAAAANI/qNA1vCex7wo/s1600/IMG_2874+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Benl9-B9xww/TrkH6bCG2RI/AAAAAAAAANI/qNA1vCex7wo/s320/IMG_2874+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of8q9UBIAUM/TrkH90HZT2I/AAAAAAAAANQ/ZDxVpgfUfHM/s1600/DSC06390+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of8q9UBIAUM/TrkH90HZT2I/AAAAAAAAANQ/ZDxVpgfUfHM/s320/DSC06390+4x6.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Obligatory before and afters.</div>
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More to come once "afters" really are afters.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qhUUFvXFAWc/TrkIATxsc6I/AAAAAAAAANY/tuZTa7mNkeg/s1600/IMG_2875+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qhUUFvXFAWc/TrkIATxsc6I/AAAAAAAAANY/tuZTa7mNkeg/s320/IMG_2875+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
This has happened. We are here. The moment I've been waiting for for so long. And it's happened.</div>
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Beautiful, straight teeth. No underbite.</div>
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Goal? Tick.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Am I happy? I am.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Am I as happy as I imagined? No, not as such. But that's ultimately because I am so over the whole braces thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, to put salt into the wound, they're still half here. And a part of them will always stay with me, with those little monsters, those wires holding me in place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, actually, it has a lot to do with the bottom braces being a little bit too self-righteous and all fixed on my teeth, and such. November 28. Or December 20. I forget when I'm due (I should call up and check), but I have two appointments booked. Though, I'm not sure what the November one could be for, if not getting them off.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, they're off (the top ones!), so I'm so happy. I would have been much happier if they were both gone.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That's honestly, most probably the reason I am not overjoyed. But I am joyed. And that's a lot to account for, and a lot to say.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I love my teeth. I haven't as of yet been obsessed and started looking at myself in the mirror on end or taking millions of photos. I'm tired, don't have the ego to, and am frankly happy. But, remember, would be happier if they were completely gone.<o:p></o:p></div>
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They look photo-shoppedly beautiful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My teeth are white, since they don't have that ugly, stained elastic-look to them going crazy in my mouth. My upper mouth that is. Which, I have to remind myself is the most important.</div>
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My teeth have their natural differences. They look really good. Like they came out of their little rooties that way, like nature intended. Sure, they aren't perfect, and never would have been. I like them as they are. They are my teeth, aligned and straight, and that's all there is to them. Now, if only they could have been like this initially...<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, all my frets and worries are gone. And in are my gorgeous, sexy, white, pearly goodies, which really are something to smile about.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There wasn't too much to the procedure at all. I assume my orthodontist, sensing his age and wisdom, is quite experienced at it. It didn't take him that long at all—I would give it half an hour, at most.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, yes, that red mark on my lip. He stabbed me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But I didn't feel it, so it's all good. I only realised after looking in the mirror.<o:p></o:p></div>
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First, he had a bit of a look at my mouth to check if everything was alright. Yes, it was, indeed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The thin, silver wire filament was placed behind my four front teeth as a form of retention, and it was adhered with dental cement. This didn't hurt at all, it was a little fiddly, and the laser zapped it a few times and it was put in place.</div>
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It is a bit bulky and rough. I was shocked when my tongue first felt it and thought, "<i>What the fuck is this? This is just supposed to be a wire!</i>" It's bulky because of the cement. My mother also mentioned that it'll probably get polished down a bit with food and drink. Good heavens, all the soft drink and black coffee I drink is rotting my stomach as we speak. It'll do a good job of the silly pumice cement, too. That, and I will of course get used to it. Much quicker than that blasted plate, let me tell you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I got back to work, I had to use the phone and my speech was a bit strange, and the first few things I said to my boss sounded a little bit lispy on the 's'es and 'f's, but I've since managed to clear that up quite well. When I got home, albeit hardly at all, the lisp was actually all but gone. All that remains is a little not-so-much non-hole, gap where the wire now sits. Damn you permanent retention.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I asked the orthodontist about how long I'm to wear it for. He replied, "However long I can con you into wearing it." <i>Touch</i><em><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial;">é, </span></em><i>sir, touch</i><em><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial;">é.</span></em><o:p></o:p></div>
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There was a lot of rinsing in between. Impressions were made at some point—for the retainers. He said that I would be getting the clear, Essix kind and the Hawley, plate and wire kind, so I can wear the Hawley at night (some people prefer this one, he said) and the clear one during the day, and "parties" and such. But not for eating. Which<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>is</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>a party for me...<o:p></o:p></div>
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After taking my impressions, he deemed that we'd hold off on the Hawley retainer for a bit because of something to do with my wisdom teeth coming in, or being half exposed and something about it not fitting well, so he decided against that for the moment. I'm to go in in a couple of days and pick up my Essix. Also, something about the Essix, due to the non-contact with the lower teeth, would be able to highlight any of my "teeth grinding" which I've been doing. I have never ground my teeth. Unless, he meant the wear on my front tooth due to my underbite position... We'll never know now, will we?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Next came snapping off the braces, which was a little bit odd as it felt like the tooth was coming off or being cracked. In no way painful, just strange. Come to think of it, luckily, nothing really hurt at all. It definitely hurt putting them on, so winning!<o:p></o:p></div>
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After they came off he used a yucky-sounding dentist's drill to polish off the remaining cement (not like I'm scared of them or anything,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>honest</i> actually), because, as he taught, there was rough stuff on my teeth ("run your tongue over to see"). This was a bit disconcerting, only because I didn't want him to slip into my gums. And shatter them into a million bloody cuts and bruises. Or, just like other times, we all well know. I did not appreciate getting stabbed in the roof twice, thank you.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Very much</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He also pulled off the molar bands which did prove a bit tricky, as they were firmly in place. He had to scrape the cement off of those teeth, which he mentioned flakes, and not to be worried that he's scraping off my teeth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rinse. Repeat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I took a quick peek at this point and was shocked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Teeth!</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Regardless, I could go on for days. All you need to give me is a keyboard, no wait—just something with letters on it(or some vocal cords and the capacity to compose anything understandable. Alright, wait, I don't need a voice either really... but I really do digress)—and a public forum and, yep, that's me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Teeth, good. Check. That's all that counts?<o:p></o:p></div>
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That was pretty much it. I think I've actually exhausted it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Oh!</i> And for all those problems I had? What problems?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Those gaps? Gone. <i>Or very minimal</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Centreline? It's perfect. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Bump on left incisor? I can't feel it because I can't run my tongue behind my teeth anymore because of the bonded, wire retainer. Whatever though, they're how my teeth are shaped.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whistling when speaking? All but gone and non-existent. Will get better with practice. Not that I can complain now, to be honest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whatever problems I had before, they're gone. I can't even think to list any more. I love my teeth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whitening. Not like they weren't white before though...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whitening will come later. White as white could be—pearl-snow-wedding dress-liquid paper white. What's the whitest thing you can think of? That, to infinity.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I can't actually think of white things.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Oh!</i> Random light bulb memory fact moment—white things are actually rare in nature, that's why. <o:p></o:p></div>
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They're pretty white as they are though, don't you think?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I hope this journey isn't much, too much longer. Sure, it's worth it, but it's not always fun. And it really is a commitment. But a so-very-much worth it one.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The only thing that is a bit off is my top and bottom centrelines matching up, but I didn't really care about this in the first place. I cared more for my top centreline to be in the middle. Which it pretty much is. It's where it needs to be, and I'm happy about that. As for them lining up, not possible for everyone.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Dealing.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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I hope I am helping the people, the readers (thank you) out there with this. Yell if you are helped, or need help.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here's to cheers, and cheesy smiles. I feel a lot more confident (to speak, smile, talk, laugh and in how I look) in my day one of half post-braces, even though I had quite minimal person-to-person contact, for today. Looking forward to the rest of the ride.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Smile, smile, smile!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bye-bye underbite. Nice knowing you!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-47667060035635140872011-11-03T22:39:00.000+11:002011-11-07T20:32:52.303+11:009 Months, 6 Days—They're Coming Off!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qcAE4ktqCyA/TrJ8c57XhUI/AAAAAAAAAMw/BVPo-zFCzGE/s1600/IMG_2780+braces+clear+ceramic+smile+after+underbite+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qcAE4ktqCyA/TrJ8c57XhUI/AAAAAAAAAMw/BVPo-zFCzGE/s320/IMG_2780+braces+clear+ceramic+smile+after+underbite+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This. Is. It.</div>
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For real this time.</div>
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But, still only half-way.</div>
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My top braces are coming off in five days! Less than a week.</div>
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I can't believe this, I'm still not completely sure, but I'm more sure now than I was before.</div>
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Also, side note: they are pretty badly stained at the present. I just had come Coke. Shoot me. It's late, and I'm having caffeine, shoot me again.</div>
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Even though I don't think they're still 100% perfect, my orthodontist thinks he can't do any more, and I can't say that I'm not happy, and they can't be 100% perfect, can they?</div>
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I am happy for them to come off. It really does seem this is as good as it gets.</div>
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My orthodontist took impressions for the second time last visit on Tuesday, and thinks they're perfect.</div>
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What else can I say?</div>
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Do you think they're ready to come off?</div>
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They can't stay on forever anyway, and I think I might be a bit obsessed with my teeth, actually.</div>
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Guilty.</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-90789030175211491702011-10-19T23:53:00.000+11:002011-11-12T20:55:01.488+11:008 Months, 21 Days—Still Braced (and Lazy)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-re88U4F5S4s/Tp7HyUE5PLI/AAAAAAAAAMo/3DIzsL6pV70/s1600/IMG_2685+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-re88U4F5S4s/Tp7HyUE5PLI/AAAAAAAAAMo/3DIzsL6pV70/s320/IMG_2685+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Subtle, sneaky and gratuitous cheese teeth update photo (tells a thousand words, I'm hoping) from 16 days back. Because I've been busy, thus tired, thus lazy to write up something for the day.</div>
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I also hope the photos clearer. I've uploaded it a different way. Perhaps because it's just the one and it took me forever to crop and edit like that.</div>
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I'm not dead, or revelling in post-brace life, they are visibily still here and stuck pretty firmly to my teeth. Don't think I've forgotten about you, you lovely readers, I think about you in my dreams, nightly.</div>
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This photo was taken 8 months, 6 days into braces, after coming back from the orthodontist after an adjustment. I've also since had another adjustment 2 weeks after that one, yesterday.</div>
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I promise I'll be back very soon. There isn't too much of a story to tell, teeth move on. This is just a very quick courtesy update that braces are still here, never fear, and my front midline is improving moving to the right (more centred), my newly-formed gaps are closing, and more news that the tooth (second top incisor on the right) I'm worried about probably shouldn't really worry me.</div>
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I promise to be better and more punctual next time. Promise.</div>
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And yes, that is my hair. I am a brunette. Surprise!<br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-54168604431312757262011-09-16T23:51:00.000+10:002012-01-18T14:23:43.635+11:007 Months, 25 Days—18 Days to Go!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrrfb24Ypq4/TnQEcjU7B5I/AAAAAAAAAMk/cy0_kV664lw/s1600/IMG_2424+4x6+braces+underbite+before+and+after+lipstick+photo+lips+underbite+clear+braces+ceramic+girl+mouth+red+lipstick+before+and+after+braces+wearing+braces+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrrfb24Ypq4/TnQEcjU7B5I/AAAAAAAAAMk/cy0_kV664lw/s320/IMG_2424+4x6+braces+underbite+before+and+after+lipstick+photo+lips+underbite+clear+braces+ceramic+girl+mouth+red+lipstick+before+and+after+braces+wearing+braces+smile.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am excited. They're coming off. They are finally coming off.</div>
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My, my. Time has <i>utterly</i> flown.</div>
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Almost.</div>
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Before you get more excited than me, the "them" are my upper braces only. Nevertheless, I can't believe this day is scheduled.</div>
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This is it. October 4.</div>
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Well, half of it. Which I'm not sure why the case is this way, exactly. I think my orthodontist hates me.</div>
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I should be utterly excited about this, which I am. But I swear he hates me.</div>
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Not in the way you think though. I don't care (too much) that I have to have my bottom braces on for a bit longer. Whatever it takes, doc. What I think though, is that he has an actual issue with me.</div>
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<i>The story begins here.</i></div>
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Maybe it's because he's getting sick of me. Maybe he wants to get rid of me ASAP.</div>
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Maybe I look too old for his clinic? <i>No.</i> I'm being silly.</div>
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Maybe it's because I've made my payment upfront and he's happy he's got his money and can finish up quick-sticks.</div>
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Maybe he thinks I'm a rude person. Which I am not.</div>
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Maybe he thinks I'm insulting him and his practice, which I also am not.</div>
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I don't know what else it could be. Either way, he doesn't seem as friendly, or talkative or explanatory, or the high-five giving merry-maker that I've known him to be in my initial stages and good part of my adjustment visits.</div>
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It made me feel horrible. </div>
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Maybe he's having problems at home.</div>
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Let me start from the beginning. I went in to see him a few days ago, September 13, to be exact (yeah, you say, I usually update on the day, I've been busy, shoot me, full-time work makes you a 'lil tired, <i>go figure</i>).</div>
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He didn't say anything back to me after I came in and said "good morning," his assistant did. And the first thing he said to me, after finishing off another patients notes, was "sit back".</div>
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Look, maybe he's becoming grumpy. Maybe he's sick of his job. Maybe he was having a bad day. </div>
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I don't know what it is, but I've noticed from the past few visits that he's seemed a bit displeased with me, for whatever reason. Maybe he was having bad days whenever I came in. <i>Maybe.</i><br />
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To to<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">uch on my teeth, I don't think they're quite ready yet. And this is sort of what I said to him.</span></div>
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I had known that he planned on getting the braces off on my next visit, as he mentioned to me. But he also said that he didn't promise it.</div>
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I don't feel my teeth are perfect yet, and this is the reason I'm not as happy as I should be that they're set to be coming off.</div>
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I feel that the centreline is not completely centred. Namely, that my right front tooth seems too much to the left, almost like it's jammed in.</div>
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It might be to do with the filing down of the space between my teeth that he did, and filed too much off on the side? It might also just be my teeth, which I don't care if it is, so be it. It might just be me and my perfectionism, but it's how I feel. It's only that I am so fussed because they are my front two teeth. Kind of a big deal. <i>Just.</i></div>
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He shot down my thoughts, which were in no way communicated rudely, kept telling me that I was seeing things.<br />
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Look, I don't know why he was being like that. They are my teeth and I'm paying for him to fix them, align them and make them perfect. I want him to do the the best job possible.</div>
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Am I unable to have an opinion or voice how I am feeling? On top of the fact that he hasn't asked me what I think, and if I like the job that he's done. Isn't there usually a great deal of finesse and perfecting when it comes to orthodontics? Maybe he really is done, I'm hoping on that.</div>
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If this is as good as it gets, great. I am in no way unhappy. I have a great smile, my underbite class III malocclusion is gone, and I really am thrilled. This whole situation has taken away from it a little bit, that's all.</div>
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I don't want to feel or be left short-changed for whatever reason if there can be improvements made and if these teeth of mine really aren't as perfect as they can be. </div>
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I don't know if they are completely perfect. I am no dental alignment expert. I do, however, have eyes and an opinion and a fairly exceptional understanding of what is centred.</div>
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I don't want my orthodontist to behave in a way that presents himself as anything other than capable of undertaking an exceptional job in aligning my teeth. Or because he's not bothered, and money hungry. Or whatever the reason seems to be. I don't want to sound brash, but I am paying for a service, and I want that service done and done well. That's what I am paying you for. I haven't been rude in my dealings, so I deserve some courtesy and respect and delivery of my results. </div>
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Neither do I want to be in braces for a longer amount of time than I have to deal with, but I wouldn't mind sticking out a few more months if it meant absolutely perfect teeth.</div>
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In your professional opinion, if they are perfect, so be it, and so be I wrong.</div>
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So, I am in a bit of a pickled, mixed-feeling scenario.</div>
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Either way, they are coming off in under a month. I don't think this is open for another 'discussion' with my orthodontist.</div>
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He took impressions of the roof of my mouth before I could bring up my concerns. He didn't even ask me if I was happy with my teeth. Which is perhaps why I am most annoyed? He knows I've obviously wanted them off ASAP (who wouldn't), but I want a proper job done, first and foremost.</div>
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Maybe my teeth will look different when the braces come off. Maybe, as my orthodontist says, I've become obsessed with my appliances and need to get on with life.</div>
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I am probably being an idiot. Anyone looking at this would probably tell me this. But it's me, and my teeth. <i>C'est la vie.</i></div>
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I also don't even know why my lower braces are still staying on. He also hasn't changed the ligatures on the bottom brackets in over two visits. <i>Why?</i></div>
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I don't know how to feel. This is not good.</div>
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I am really happy with my teeth though. And I think that's what matters.</div>
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If I can't do any thing more about it, I really have done my best to voice my opinion, and if my orthodontist thinks they're perfect, then they're perfect. And that's the doctor's opinion.</div>
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I'm looking past all of that for the right now, how good do my teeth and smile look?<br />
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Goodness that was a story, if a story is anything to go by. Think of it as a semi-rant, semi-autobiographical excerpt about an orthodontist visit and the afterthoughts of a vain, perfectionist on an ego-trip, willing to tell anybody who will listen.</div>
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For the first time, here they are, presented in border-blushing colour<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—</span>my gorgeous mouth space! <i>Hello</i> sunshine!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">I love lipstick</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—</span><span class="Apple-style-span">not that braces have made me fall in love with it-</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—</span><span class="Apple-style-span">but I think they have added another dimension to smiling teeth and sexy lips! </span>I just came back from a night out<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">shoot me, <i>again</i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">—that explains the lipstick and the mad smiling mood I was in.</span></div>
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I have been really busy as of recently, which has prevented me from updating my story, so I decided to just do it now before I get bogged down, again, and delay, if not forgo (no, I'd never!) an update.<br />
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It takes time and effort to do this, people. And I'm doing it for you! The people who want and need perfect teeth. Let me inspire you. It's been a beautiful and painful, but oh-so worth it journey so far.</div>
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Millions and millions of photos later, I have a gorgeous mouth.</div>
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In the orthodontia arena, in my adjustment visit, he changed my upper, back ligatures and gave me a six-toothed powerchain, as opposed to four-toothed, akin to other visits. I have my suspicions he may have changed it from four- to six-toothed after I complained about my issue, seeing a gap on the side beyond the four teeth, and of course, the centre alignment concern.<br />
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He had already put all the new ligatures in my mouth before I raised my concerns. So after my complaint, he then decided to take off all the elastics he just put on, took out the wire and made a small, 0.3mm bend in the front of it, which he'd said would fix the issue I saw, ever so slightly. I'm not sure he even understood my problem.<br />
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Further, the orthodontist said that I'd still be wearing the bottom braces after my top ones come off. I'm not sure why, or for now long. He hasn't explained that. And I didn't have the chance to ask. And I'm not one to shy away from questions.<br />
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He also mentioned that I will be getting permanent wire retainers placed behind my teeth, on top and bottom, to hold the new teeth positioning. </div>
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I will also wear a plate after all is said, or rather, done. Which is why he took the impressions, I can only assume. I'm not sure for how long or for what hours of a day, but there will be a plate involved. I'm not sure which type of plate he will issue me with, also. I think it will be a Hawley plate retainer as opposed to the Essix vacuum mouthguard-style type, from the sounds of things, and the research I've done. I don't know too much about the benefits of either. I just hope it doesn't interfere with my everyday. I can tell you I will not be very happy to be lisping again.</div>
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Also on the table will be the filing down of my my front teeth (and perhaps others) to even them out due to the wear of my underbite and to even them out a little. I don't want them filed and leveled too much. I like the unique intricacies of the way my teeth look in their natural state. Fingers crossed when we get to that bridge.</div>
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And so, I am happy. If that's anything to go by. There is not long to go, and that's something big to look forward to. I can smile a smiling smile and be happy for that.</div>
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I would say that this is a 'so long', and 'until next time', for when I will be braces free in the uppers, but we all know, perhaps a bit too well, that I will most likely be back, the night before they come off, with some final, fleeing photos of worse days.</div>
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Until then, I sit, and patiently wait, awaiting the day when I will be brace-free, for eternity! Keep smiling, I know I will be starting to practice!</div>
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P.S. This was very long, you are an awesome person for getting here. If the length of this is anything to go by, you can understand why I put off writing it in the first place. Reward yourself with an apple.<br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-70090806238874094612011-08-11T15:06:00.001+10:002011-11-12T16:54:02.696+11:006 Months, 14 Days<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I went in to the orthodontist yesterday for my seventh adjustment. Not much to report, only that I might be getting my upper archwire off in two months! Here's hoping! That would be fabulous! He's not promising anything though. Fair enough. I think it will be about four more visits or months until they're completely off.</div>
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Look at how pretty those chompers are looking!</div>
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I'm not sure if I got new archwires because the orthodontist didn't say he was putting new ones in, but he may have. I got all my ligatures or modules (whatever) changed this time to clear pearl ones, which I am happy about, and I got a powerchain again put on my upper front four teeth. Before doing so, again, he used what I remember this time as an interproximal something (trimmer or file, maybe) to shave off a bit between all my four front teeth on top and bottom.</div>
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This photo shows just how far I can push my upper teeth beyond my bottom. It's not my natural bite. Quite significant considering I couldn't imagine my uppers going in front of my lower teeth. </div>
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I was concerned last month about one of my front teeth wearing away a little due to it apparently coming into contact with a lower bracket. You might be able to see it on my left front tooth in the third photo of the second group, looking like two little bumps shaped (miraculously) like the bracket below.</div>
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I went in and saw a different orthodontist back then, because mine wasn't available, and he said that he thought there wasn't anything to worry about. When I saw my orthodontist yesterday, he also said that there wasn't anything to worry about, and that the wear was already there before I got braces. I know it wasn't. I know my teeth and have photos to show that it wasn't.</div>
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It is minimal though, and he said that we would even the teeth out a little when treatment is done. I don't want my teeth leveled out and straightened too much to make them look unnatural. Nevertheless, I'm not happy about it. If it gets worse, I will bring it up again.</div>
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My smile is looking great. Nothing too much different to usual, though. I'd love just to have the braces off and be done with it. I want it now!</div>
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Everyday though, I just think to myself that I'm getting closer to my goal, and that helps me see why it's all worth it. Make yourself hella-ugly to be hella-pretty, ironic. </div>
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I'm pretty lucky that I'm wearing them for what is apparently going to be a relatively short amount of time, so I should be happy with that alone. I can't wait to have them off and smile all day long!</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-58687970572916713072011-07-15T14:21:00.003+10:002011-11-12T17:35:07.010+11:005 Months, 17 Days<div style="text-align: center;">
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My teeth have been holding up quite well, albeit not making much visible or tangible progress that I can really get excited about or that I can really make a case for. The orthodontist implied that my progress is going well, and said that I'd be out of them quite soon. Fair enough not saying exactly when.</div>
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The photo below shows how my clear modules or ligatures held up just before I went into the orthodontist and got them changed. The clear ones, I've found, do discolour and yellow more than the pearl coloured modules. In addition to that, the yellowing of the modules makes your teeth look more yellow by contrast.</div>
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In today's visit I got a new "finishing wire" on my upper arch and the first four front teeth got a clear power chain elastic. The rest of my teeth on the upper arch got clear pearl modules. Before applying the arch wire, the orthodontist filed away slightly at between each of the front three gaps to help the alignment gel and come together as desired.</div>
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The orthodontist only changed the first four modules of my bottom arch. I found that odd, for a few reasons. It doesn't take much effort to change them, and I am paying quite a bit for this treatment so it's unreasonable to not have all my modules changed. They are also quite discoloured as you can see in the photos, and one of the last modules on my left bottom arch is only hanging on half of the bracket.</div>
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He did mention that the back teeth of my bottom arch aren't a priority, or that important, and said not to worry too much when I lost a module a few months back, so maybe that's why he didn't bother with changing them. I really would have liked them changed, though. I didn't even realise he wasn't changing them until I walked out of there and was on the train home and had a good look.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I also asked him about the centreline of my teeth, and he said there's not too much more room to move with that, because they're pretty centred as it is. He also said that manipulation depends on different tooth widths. I don't think it will be moving much more, but we'll see. There's still an indefinite time to go, and I have been developing small gaps between my front upper teeth.</div>
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The orthodontist also said that there would be a few more months of wire wear, then something about putting a<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">nother wire in with some kinks and bends in it to make tweaks and fine tuned adjustments, followed by making my retainer impressions done. He reiterated that he wants to get rid of me as soon as possible, with a laugh.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"></span>I am still to wear my 'E' and 'D' elastics on alternating days, for half the day, and I do so after dinner until I wake up. I have been wearing them everyday, but I've probably been a little naughty and have doubled up on them a few times. I'm not sure if it's quite alright to be doing this, but I thought it wouldn't hurt.<br />
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Other than that, not much of an update this time, but I am delighted with my overall progress, and can't wait until they come off. The orthodontist said before Ch<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">ristmas</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">—and then laughed and said, "But, I didn't say which Christmas!"</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-53797158478166403262011-07-05T00:48:00.003+10:002011-11-12T17:21:18.940+11:00Eating Braces-friendly—What to Eat with Braces<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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Before I got braces, I was inundated with the overwhelming amount of sources telling me what I could and couldn't eat when I finally did get them on. Let me tell you, I wasn't looking forward to bans on certain foods.</div>
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No crunchy things, chewy things, sticky things, hard things, nutty-crunchy-yummy-crispy things. Oh no, goodness no! That was pretty much everything apart from yogurt, soup and scrambled eggs—which, there's nothing wrong with, but what ever else would I eat?</div>
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As I sit here composing this, all the while crunch-munching into an apple—having eaten popcorn earlier today, as well as celery, amongst a myriad of other things before, like lollies, nuts, Doritos and crunchy, sourdough bread—restrictive eating has not been on my agenda! It may be because I'm special. It may be because food is in love with me. Or, that I am in love with food. Whatever the case, whatever the food, I've been able to eat it.</div>
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I will pull myself up on this one here though. When I get new wires, for the next few days to almost a week, my teeth do become sore, but not unbearably so, or for a prolonged amount of time. This does make it uncomfortable to eat certain foods as the teeth are tender and don't take much give.</div>
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Also, there will always be a self-sabotage, protecting mechanism built-in from the moment you get braces, which you will unconsciously become less aware of, which won't let you crunch with no abandon. I'm sorry, but once those things are attached to your teeth and have invaded eating space, your mouth and teeth won't let you ferociously plunge your teeth into something. They know they have something on them.</div>
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Unless you're an idiot and have no self-respect or understanding that you when force your teeth into something, something hard or difficult, that you won't do any damage. It doesn't work like that. You know you're wearing braces, and you'll self-regulate like that. But the good thing about it is you won't notice. Or, over time, you'll learn not to notice. Unless of course you've just gotten an adjustment, and it really will hurt you to bite.</div>
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I have gotten one new archwire set over the course of over 5 months of treatment now. No biggie. I wish I had new wires so my teeth could move more. In this case, I haven't had much experience with restrictive eating due to sore teeth from new wires, in that respect, because I haven't had any new wires to make my teeth sore in the first place.</div>
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What's the go here? I do think I'm a little bit special.</div>
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One word of warning thing though, I wouldn't go nuts on unpopped popcorn. Not saying it can't be done, but those babies are hard with a capital 'H'.</div>
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You should know what feels right and how much tension your teeth can take. Jaws of steel I have, I think! </div>
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Either way, I love my new bite marks and chewing style. I now use my incisors to completely clasp onto crunchy foods like apples and celery, and it's an amazing, rounded feeling. Since the upper teeth are in front of the lowers, it's a completely new way of eating, and chewing. It just feels so right!</div>
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I can't <i>wait</i> to bite into an apple sans-braces. That will be the day!</div>
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In all, use your own judgement and don't feel you're missing out on anything, because I haven't in the slightest. It's all about adapting to the feel of your teeth, plus those teeth training-wheels, so it will take a bit of getting used to settling in.</div>
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<i>Nuts</i> to all the haters!</div>
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Although, avoid sugar. It's bad for you, and say no to cavities!</div>
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So, what's on the menu next? An apple a day keeps the dentist away, right?</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-23679660364932201512011-06-23T12:03:00.009+10:002011-11-12T17:36:22.573+11:004 Months, 26 Days<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I just came back from braces adjustment number 5, from the new orthodontist who was taking over this time because my orthodontist is on a holiday. He changed my ligatures—the clear colour as opposed to pearl, as I anticipated—and said my teeth are looking great!<br />
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My centreline is still a little bit off on both top and bottom jaws, but I assume this will be fixed in time. My right front tooth is still a little crooked too, and I can still feel the bump when I run my tongue over the back of the top arch, although, this has improved a lot since I started treatment.<br />
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The small gaps between my teeth on the sides have been closing and moving around. There are still some gaps left as they are still moving around and making room for my bite.</div>
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This photo shows just how far I can now extend my upper jaw over my bottom. It is not the natural bite, which is feeling perfect now! Those little worries I had about the bite sitting not quite right in the last post quickly disappeared soon after that, so I was really happy about that.</div>
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There's not too much progress that I've really seen, which isn't great, but I usually only see changes when I get a new wire—which I may get next month—or due to new and initial elastic wear. As the affects of the elastics I've been wearing have pretty much stabilised, I'm only wearing them for half a day to do so.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLR0_-aawjw/TgKbJ95O3CI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/72gb9O-wv6Y/s1600/IMG_1988+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vLR0_-aawjw/TgKbJ95O3CI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/72gb9O-wv6Y/s320/IMG_1988+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I love that my teeth look brand new with the adjustment, and I'll see how these clear ligatures hold up over the course of the month. I have been drinking an exponentially increased amount of cola—without the straw, mind you!—and, my teeth are looking, as per usual, quite yellow in the photos, but more so than normal I think. I can't wait to get these braces off and get them nice and sparkly whitened!<br />
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I've got a whole bunch of photos of my progress and current state of my teeth, as I realised I only ever really have to update after my adjustments, so I've put in more photos than normal! I'm happy to report everything is going well, and I look forward to knocking one more month off my countdown!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFIRQo8F-dU/TgKbKr-AxxI/AAAAAAAAAJU/107y4SpaNHI/s1600/IMG_1998+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFIRQo8F-dU/TgKbKr-AxxI/AAAAAAAAAJU/107y4SpaNHI/s320/IMG_1998+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'd love more of your questions or comments, too, so keep them coming! Happy smiling, until next time!<br />
<br />Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-65885595188670262992011-05-19T11:43:00.007+10:002011-11-12T17:37:16.169+11:003 Months, 21 Days<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I am a happy chappy. I just came back from the orthodontist from my fourth adjustment. I have some great news, too! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SVe-ELWAKI4/TdSvoG2sTSI/AAAAAAAAAIU/VG2zIXOdEjw/s1600/IMG_1534+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SVe-ELWAKI4/TdSvoG2sTSI/AAAAAAAAAIU/VG2zIXOdEjw/s320/IMG_1534+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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He changed all my ligatures, or modules—whatever you want to call them—and they look brand-spankingly whitely new, which is fantastic! He also changed my bottom archwire to a single wire, and added new metal hooks for my elastics.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTh2DykqhNU/TdRzsZqBz_I/AAAAAAAAAHw/l4NC5Cop9_g/s1600/IMG_1542+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTh2DykqhNU/TdRzsZqBz_I/AAAAAAAAAHw/l4NC5Cop9_g/s320/IMG_1542+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--QG2rVs0t4U/TdRzupIXUlI/AAAAAAAAAH0/pGHplg1kizw/s1600/IMG_1546+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--QG2rVs0t4U/TdRzupIXUlI/AAAAAAAAAH0/pGHplg1kizw/s320/IMG_1546+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The thing is, I still have to wear my elastics—both 'E' and 'D' alternating days—but because my teeth are basically where they need to be, but just need maintenance, I only need to wear them for half a day! Lord hallelujah, this is the best news. Elastics, I do not like. And the less social time with them, the best.</div>
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The orthodontist also said that things are looking really good, or something like that, which is good to hear! I'm due to see another different orthodontist in five weeks time, mainly because mine is going on a little holiday—which he tends to do often, the lucky man!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XU7_JGcqCUY/TdR0JAjwc2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/RUNYs32MykE/s1600/IMG_1564+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XU7_JGcqCUY/TdR0JAjwc2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/RUNYs32MykE/s320/IMG_1564+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fiwhRhZ3T4/TdR0ZeHPNlI/AAAAAAAAAIM/dsAYY_mcILk/s1600/IMG_1573+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fiwhRhZ3T4/TdR0ZeHPNlI/AAAAAAAAAIM/dsAYY_mcILk/s320/IMG_1573+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My teeth are coming together really nicely in a great bite. My only concerns are that I am able to push my teeth forward more than necessary, which I'm not too sure is normal—and who am I to know—but obviously things are still a work in progress, and if it's still an issue for me, I'll bring it up with my orthodontist. "Build the house, paint the rooms" mantra—ready, set, go!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7NAd-HM8BE/TdRz7ZWdi8I/AAAAAAAAAH4/1ep74amWSrA/s1600/IMG_1556+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7NAd-HM8BE/TdRz7ZWdi8I/AAAAAAAAAH4/1ep74amWSrA/s320/IMG_1556+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's been almost 4 months, and I'm feeling fine! I'm smiling most of the time now, I'm very quite nearly almost over the whole self-conscious braces thing, which I'm sure will never completely go away, but at least my teeth are looking fantastic! Everyday I just think to myself that this is already worth it. I love it, I'm loving my progressing smile, and I can't wait to get my braces off to show what will be an amazing set of pearly whites!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nCIfZiAF10s/TdR0ditXoEI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/PEW-N0hDV9A/s1600/IMG_1579+4x6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nCIfZiAF10s/TdR0ditXoEI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/PEW-N0hDV9A/s320/IMG_1579+4x6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Do they look less yellow? I've been drinking more cola.</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-46059446937469407242011-05-04T00:15:00.006+10:002012-02-18T14:55:11.016+11:00Underbite Fixed with Braces Only<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I got ceramic braces—to fix an underbite class III malocussion—which has now been corrected after under three months. I thought I would make an update, and just outline that the main reason I am recording my progress in this braces blog is not only to document the changes of my teeth, but to allow others to see my experience of fixing an underbite with braces only. When I was searching for information prior to going ahead with—and during—treatment, I was surprised at the lack of resources about the orthodontic procedures available for those with an underbite, who of which are not willing or able to undergo orthodontic corrective jaw surgery.</div>
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I felt really lost in the dark, and admittedly, quite frankly confused. I thought braces fixed all types of problems with teeth, no sweat (just time), and not just overbites, as predominantly seen in the majority of cases. In so far as my understanding goes, the use of braces only, can and will fix an underbite if the malocclusion is not skeletal—or that of the jaw structure—and not to an extensive degree. It is understandable that those with quite severe jaw underbite malocclusions will inevitably require surgery to align the jaws, and this can be unavoidable for some.</div>
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My teeth and jaws however, were not of the extreme case—although still quite obviously misaligned—and I can't stress enough, that the use of braces only, as well as expander plate wear, were able to fix my teeth and move them into a correct bite.<br />
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Of course, all individual situations are obviously different, and a professional opinion is advised, but I thought I would document my case for those looking for information on such a niche and rarely detailed orthodontic situation. Bite problems are very common, and I was surprised at the apparent oversight and lack of information available to document such orthodontic treatment progress.<br />
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Because I love photos, and all sorts, below are two pictures of my teeth before, <span style="background-color: white;">and two pictures 3</span> months and 5 days into braces, because my smile picture says a lot—with pretty glitter lip gloss to boot! My underbite was officially (me being the 'official'!) gone after 2 months and 7 days of wearing braces, and I couldn't be happier, and smilier!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0UaEkOyvmE/TcKmoKOXXKI/AAAAAAAAAHc/F9AbU3lF-ZU/s1600/DSC06428+4x6+underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0UaEkOyvmE/TcKmoKOXXKI/AAAAAAAAAHc/F9AbU3lF-ZU/s320/DSC06428+4x6+underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before Bite</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8kf7ml96Xs/TcKmxTAWatI/AAAAAAAAAHg/LoE4SVQD7Bg/s1600/DSC06390+4x6++underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8kf7ml96Xs/TcKmxTAWatI/AAAAAAAAAHg/LoE4SVQD7Bg/s320/DSC06390+4x6++underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnFgGzWwpQc/TcKm3CXqi5I/AAAAAAAAAHk/Ddaet51Sc0I/s1600/IMG_1464+4x6+underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnFgGzWwpQc/TcKm3CXqi5I/AAAAAAAAAHk/Ddaet51Sc0I/s320/IMG_1464+4x6+underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After 3 Months, 5 Days</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qrPbE0ZuThw/TcKm43_WbVI/AAAAAAAAAHo/jZgst2R11Ec/s1600/IMG_1450+4x6++underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qrPbE0ZuThw/TcKm43_WbVI/AAAAAAAAAHo/jZgst2R11Ec/s320/IMG_1450+4x6++underbite+before+and+after+teeth+adult+ceramic+braces+only.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After 3 Months, 5 Days
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I obviously still have a bit of a way to go, but you'll have to admit that it's a good start to what is a perfect smile! Both my centrelines are a little bit off on the top and bottom, my front right incisor (on your left) is still little bit crooked and I have an unhappy, little gap forming between my front teeth, which I assume is moving the centreline.</div>
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I will continue to update my progress along the whole journey, and I will happily take any questions you may have or comments you would like to share. I hope my story helps at least one person decide that their underbite has got to go, and be replaced by a smile that they've always wanted.<br />
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<i>Update: </i>Since, I have updated this blog entry because I have had my braces removed, and here's a more definitive look at what I've achieved, and I think you'll agree that the results are beyond amazing. I couldn't be any much happier.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dc7f65nMwMs/Tr4FLTymRbI/AAAAAAAAASE/-_N6nczAqQc/s1600/IMG_2874+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dc7f65nMwMs/Tr4FLTymRbI/AAAAAAAAASE/-_N6nczAqQc/s320/IMG_2874+4x6+braces+before+and+after+underbite+smile+teeth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can see how great the bite looks, and the underbite, well you can say a big bye-bye to that one! These are my teeth after 9 months and 11 days into wearing braces, when my upper bands were removed.</div>
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Underbite, be gone! I am so happy I can smile with my teeth now, it's smile-inducing in and of itself! Here's to happy teeth and happy smiles!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J34xypoDMRY/Tr4Fk5kCu2I/AAAAAAAAASM/T9AeZYU3OF4/s1600/IMG_2880+braces+before+and+after+underbite+clear+ceramic+braces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J34xypoDMRY/Tr4Fk5kCu2I/AAAAAAAAASM/T9AeZYU3OF4/s320/IMG_2880+braces+before+and+after+underbite+clear+ceramic+braces.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Rockwell; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><i>Update: </i>9 months, and 22 days later, I am completely done with braces. Underbite gone, braces off, <i>The</i> perfect smile. I can now smile a perfect smile with very happy teeth inside a very happy girl's mouth, practically beaming with perpetual smiles.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYhYOMJJVCY/TxY2ASZTaUI/AAAAAAAAAfE/Nj1IGc96tbA/s1600/before+and+after+braces%253B+ceramic+braces+blog+underbite+before+during+and+after+photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYhYOMJJVCY/TxY2ASZTaUI/AAAAAAAAAfE/Nj1IGc96tbA/s640/before+and+after+braces%253B+ceramic+braces+blog+underbite+before+during+and+after+photos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Before During After
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Be sure to check out my last post, detailing my whole journey, with photos, found here: <a href="http://saybraces.blogspot.com/2012/01/before-and-after-bracesbraces-off.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Before and After Braces—Braces Off, Underbite Fixed and The Perfect Teeth</span></a></div>
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Happy smiling!</div>
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</div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com126tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-86589758512819734382011-04-25T03:22:00.004+10:002011-11-12T17:39:37.560+11:002 Months, 28 Days<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Not <em>this</em> yellow—promise! I have no idea why my back teeth keep coming up overly yellow and stained. Nevertheless, I will definitely be getting some sort of whitening to finish off my perfect smile post-braces.</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-28726287338380891362011-04-21T14:07:00.002+10:002011-11-12T17:39:58.703+11:00T-minus Braces Lift-off<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I went to my orthodontist today and was greeted with some excellent news. He said I was "looking terrible" with loads of sarcasm, and sprung something great on me, great and wonderful being that I'll be in braces for the shortest time possible, he said with restraint.</div>
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I'll still be wearing them for however long necessary, but it'll be the shortest that he can make it. This was sweet honey to my ears! Maybe I should say teeth—but mouth might be more fitting! Hell, sweet honey to my teeth.</div>
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I asked about how much longer it would be, and I'm pretty sure he said about 6 months, but it might have been 8, but I'm pretty sure it was 6—I was too excited to register it accurately! I walked right out of there smiling and smiling. I can predict waterworks when they finally come off, I just know it.<br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-873490936990497022011-04-13T23:39:00.001+10:002011-11-12T17:40:16.123+11:002 Months, 16 Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-56636974652728068352011-04-06T23:52:00.008+10:002011-11-12T17:40:55.454+11:002 Months, 7 Days—Underbite-be-Gone!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Such a happy chappy—my teeth have gone over! Can't you see the gorgeous smile happening and waiting to shine? My underbite is actually gone, good riddance. I am so happy I could smile!<br />
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I popped into my orthodontist for the second time this month because I noticed yet another ligature—or as they refer to here as a module—was missing. He put a new one in it's place and I also got a new upper archwire while he was at it. It's a little bit thicker and it's starting to hurt already.<br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-78379499594403025792011-03-30T22:37:00.000+11:002011-11-12T17:41:31.539+11:002 Months, 2 Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These are my awesome 'D' shark elastics in full swing. They are ultra-awesome in so much that their full extent cannot be shown here or caputured completely by camera.</div>
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It really looks as if my bite is closing over. I can tell you I will be so happy once my underbite is an overbite because essentially this is why I got braces.</div>
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-67248509621563940062011-03-23T22:56:00.007+11:002011-11-12T17:41:55.877+11:001 Month, 23 Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-72630316450122504912011-03-23T22:28:00.004+11:002011-11-12T17:42:51.300+11:00Shark/Vampire/Snake—Elastics and Braces<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I went to my orthodontist today and got a present. A present in the form of news first and then a physical gift.</div>
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Good news was that I only had to wear my elastics part-time. </div>
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Bad news was that I was getting new and utterly worse elastics to wear for longer than my current ones.</div>
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I wish I had a photo of me wearing these elastics at this point in time because they really are terrible. They are a little thicker, a little shorter, and come from my upper canines to my lower canines at a bit of a diagonal which means they are quite visible when I talk and open my mouth.<br />
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I will continue to wear my 'E' elastics 8 hours a day, while my 'D' elastics get 16 hours of show. I've timed my schedule out, all social-friendly like, that I wear my 'E' elastics from 9 to 5—what a way to make a living!—and my 'D' elastics the rest of the time, 5 to 9.</div>
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The orthodontist told me I can take them out for a 'hot date'. Gosh, gee, thanks, I'll<em> try</em> and remember that. No consolation, they are really that bad.</div>
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My sister and I think I look like a shark in them, mother says a vampire (how topical—<i>Twilight</i>, anyone?), and one of my closest friends says a snake. I should start a freak-show or a zoo. <br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-39568777879148014972011-02-27T20:36:00.008+11:002011-11-12T17:43:40.618+11:001 Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-66754173570558070742011-02-18T22:11:00.004+11:002011-11-03T23:07:35.390+11:00Day 22<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-39006632299910454842011-02-11T17:25:00.004+11:002011-11-12T17:44:15.270+11:00Day 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-24430740592743989022011-02-04T19:27:00.002+11:002011-11-12T17:44:36.701+11:00Day 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-47453486222847257002011-01-30T18:48:00.002+11:002011-11-12T17:45:00.505+11:00Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441756572848211637.post-21797971282101296702011-01-28T17:09:00.014+11:002011-11-12T17:45:37.417+11:00Brace Myself—I Got Braces<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am in jail—I just got braces that is. All the metal, the behind bars look, the permanent and lengthy sentence, pain and shame—yeah, that's pretty much sounding like jail to me.</span><br />
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I feel like a kid.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I got braces today. They are ceramic braces and I got them applied to my upper and lower arches. The process took well under an hour and wasn't as long as expected for the 2 hours which I was quoted for. It wasn't painful either, merely uncomfortable, with the plastic trays which pulle</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">d my mouth open pushing at sensitive areas, like gums. The pain set in the pretty much well later that day, and my mouth felt like it had been punched for the week.</span><br />
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Please ignore the gum. It's key lime pie flavour and it's delicious.<br />
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My orthodontist put on what he refers to as clear ligatures around each bracket, but I know they're pearl because they have a slight tinge to them. He didn't even ask me what colour I would like because he knows I want them to be discreet. From what I've read about online, the pearl colour stains less than clear, and with the amount of no-no stainer things I drink—always through a straw now, mind you—they hold up well.</div>
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Before putting my lower archwire on, the orthodontist lightly and nonchalantly filed away at the spaces between my front two incisors. This was to make a little bit more room for my teeth to move back in the lower jaw. He also gave me some GC Recaldent Tooth Mousse paste to use on the area five times a week to aid in the formation of new enamel in those areas. The stuff is really great.</div>
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The elastic bands on either side are of the 'E' variant which I got from day one to wear 24/7 to fix the underbite. They are worn from the second last molars which have the molar bands and hooks, to the space between the second lower incisor and canine where the orthodontist has made a small loop in the archwire to hook onto. The lower archwire is doubled over itself in an interesting way and loops over all the molars twice. The bubble gum, I can finally chew, and is excellent and is key lime pie flavour.</div>
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Not to scare anyone, but I can't forget the very quite indeed pain of when the orthodontist slipped when using a pointy tool to apply the hard-to-get-on molar band of my right tooth. It was bad, is all I can say—and it happened twice.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I got molar bands on my top arches only, which I guess is a good thing. Less metal is more, don't you know what they say, ladies?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At first, it felt really weird, just like there was extra space in my mouth. Almost like my teeth had grown and they stuck out a little in my mouth against my lips. It didn't look all that bad either, which I was happy about. It looked as good as braces could look, let's put it that way.</span><br />
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And with that, I finally have braces. Am I happy about it? Well, I can't say I'm disappointed, which is a good thing. I can't wait 'til they're off already. I have to keep telling myself it's for perfect teeth.<br />
<br /></div>Say Braces!http://www.blogger.com/profile/00465920048476007139noreply@blogger.com1