My Experience with Braces: Before, During, & After
I got braces because it was my last chance for orthodontic treatment while I was still under my dad's insurance. Once I turned 26, no more coverage....so before it was too late, I used up my benefit. The process for getting ortho approval was quite lengthy, at least with our insurance. It took almost a whole year before I was able to have the braces put on - they required lots and lots of evidence to prove that I needed braces, not just for cosmetic reasons, before they agreed to cover them. I think I had to send in 5 or 6 different X-Rays and molds from different dentists, surgeons, etc., and they took forever to accept each one.
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Taken the day before treatment began |
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First day with spacers - you can see one of them (it's blue!) |
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3 months into treatment |
I also had chains put on, which are very thick, tiny rubber band chains that are pulled really tight across all your teeth. They bring your teeth together & make them super tight! I formed a gap in my front teeth at some point, and the chains completely closed that gap. I only had the chains for a couple of months....the dentist took them off/put them on a couple of times to make sure my teeth could sustain the tightness on their own.
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A photo of my chains |
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6 months into treatment |
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17 months into treatment |
Seconds before they were taken off....my last photo with braces! |
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Seconds after they were taken off....not my best picture! I was in shock! Hahah |
The last thing I wanted to talk about is my post-braces situation. I tried my best to keep my teeth clean during treatment - the Waterpik saved my life!! If you don't have one, you need to invest in one. They really aren't too expensive, and they clean your teeth SO well. I used to get cavities yearly (and have had two root canals) until I started Waterpiking. Anyway, I did as much as I could to maintain a healthy smile, but bacteria and tarter inevitably built up underneath the braces. I had my teeth cleaned immediately after the braces removed, and right now I'm doing a round of these whitestrips. I have very sensitive teeth, so I usually opt for the gentle formula. If you don't have sensitive teeth, this 'Glamorous White' formula is fantastic as well (I've tried it and loved the results).
BTW - if you're local to my area and need a dentist/orthodontist, Dr. King in Canoga Park is AH.MA.ZING. He is the best dentist I have ever been to, and I've been to my fair share of horrible dentists...I'm talking nightmare status!! You will absolutely love Dr. King. He's got the nicest disposition, really cares for each patient, and does a fantastic job on taking care of your teeth. I don't even get scared when it's time for cleanings, or even fillings, when I go to him.
I'm not sure how exciting this post was - in fact, I almost didn't publish it cause I kept thinking, "Who would want to read about my teeth?!" But I remember before I got braces, I heavily relied on others' experiences. So I hope this gave you some insight if you're considering them! If not, hopefully it was entertaining! Let me know if you have any questions! xoxo
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