Funny how things change in the course of a few days . My teeth have completely adjusted, the lisp is nearly vanished (thanks to biting off the thingy behind my upper front tooth - just one though - one still remains) and the pain is barely noticeable - this is me smiling :0) . I'm so happy!

I am sure the pain will resurface, moderately when my wire is changed on March 3, 2009; subsequently, when I will also post my next report.

I have completed my first week in braces and have a great understanding for the intricate work of orthodontists and their dental assistants.

My extensive pain and top tooth banging on a bottom bracket resulted in a return to the orthodontist. He informed me that things are progressing normally. My pain is due to the number of rotated molars, deep bite and curved teeth. I was provided with photos of what I could expect for outcomes. I also learned my orthodontist will use the lazer...

Things are progressing as I have expected. However, I did not expect to have a chronic problem of repeatedly and unexpectedly banging my top tooth on a bottom tooth which has resulted in unbelievable pain and tenderness.

I find that the pain from my teeth really doesn't bother me much during the day. I am choosing soft foods, cutting it into small pieces in an effort to bring the blood supply to my teeth and gums to speed up the healing process and bring some sense of normalcy to...

Day 3...

Sunny, you were right, brushing several times a day which I thought was a good idea turned out to be not so good , my teeth and gums were on the sore side this morning - this is a learning is a process, sometimes a little tougher than others - no doubt about it .

Speaking of learning, I also learned a few new words today when I hit one of my top teeth against a bottom tooth (didn't know I had those words in me - lol). Still hurts to chew but its getting...

Day 2... has arrived and the pain has minimally subsided (keeping in mind I have not taken medication either). While at work today I rinsed several times with mouthwash to ease the rubbing of my brackets against my cheeks. The mouthwash did provide me with temporary relief. Wax is good but I would like my mouth to become somewhat resistant to the brackets.

I am very excited to share that I have discovered drinking hot water is soothing to sore gums and teeth.

I desperately...