Braces going on soon on 8th July 2009!!

[janetgyellow]

I am 46 years old and due to have my brace fitted on 8th July for between 15 and 18 months. I am having Clarity on the front teeth bottom and top and metal on the rest. Have always been nervous in the dentist's chair so am being very brave opting to have this done at my age but my teeth are starting to look very crooked, have moved loads in the past year, so have decided to go ahead - big brave decision! Should have had this done much younger as teeth pushed forward because of thumb sucking but told my mum if I had a brace fitted I would stamp on it - biggest regret ever, wished I had gone ahead with it then I wouldn't be facing this now. I had two options, one to have two teeth out - that meant I wouldn't proceed with the brace. Option two was to have brace on, front teeth would move forward about 2mm and then I will have my teeth sandpapered to make more gaps in-between the teeth so the front teeth will then come back, should end up being no more than 1mm further forward than they are now - obviously being very nervous with dentist I am going for this option. I just need someone to tell me it'll all be ok and I am doing the right thing!! Help - really want to go ahead with this but still a month to change my mind!! Thanks. Janet

[Sunny]

Hi and welcome to this forum Janet.

I started my treatment when I was 47 and it's been a breeze. Make sure you follow the instructions your ortho gives you ... but most important use commonsense.

Have plenty of wax, in case you need it during the first few days, or when a wire slips back etc. Covering brackets/wire with wax helps your mouth to toughen without getting sores and that is best for your mouth to be and you.

Drinking plenty of water is also important, as if your body is well hydrated, your mouth feels better and it's easier for your mouth to move over your teeth. The same goes for lip balm, as this helps to keep your lips moist and sliding over your brackets.

Having braces as an adult can be a challenge ... mostly in the pre planning part, the 'thinking' part. Most adults are mature enough to quickly get over the 'look' of them and realise that there's way more important things in life than their braces and also realise that other people really don't care about what's going on in your mouth. The more positive your attitude, the more this appears to be reflected by those around you, which of course goes for most things in life.

Also ... remember this is only for a short time. This period of time will pass whether you have orthodontic treatment or not. The difference will be ... at the end of this time, you have the choice to have teeth you're proud of, or to stay as you are now! I definitely think you're being very brave and making a great decision. This forum is an excellent place to share experiences and to ask questions.

If you want to keep a blog of your experiences, click here and set one up.

Good luck!

[Phoenix461]

Janet, welcome to the board.

I just got my braces 2 weeks ago today and I turned 48 a month and a half ago. It takes a little bit of getting used to but Sunny and other members here have been just a chock full of information and help.

Good luck!