Finally it’s here, my first adjustment! Although it’s a bit of a cliché, time has definitely flown since I got my braces on, I hope the next 17-23 months go as fast as the last 1+ month has. Last night, upon realizing how much time had passed (and deliberately ignoring how much time is yet to come) I started thinking about some of those original ideas and assumptions that have already shifted. I didn’t come to braces with a firm set of expectations, but after all the research I’d done I thought I had a fairly good understanding of what was to come. Some things are definitely holding true, but other things have really surprised me, and I’m only a little over a month in!

1. The budget. When I decided to get braces I saved up to pay for the actual cost of treatment (well a down payment and I budgeted in the remaining monthly payments). I’ve since realized I also need to budget in:
   • Extra tooth brush heads. The brackets wear down my fancy Sonicare brushes at an alarming rate. Considering how much those puppies cost it isn’t an inconsiderable sum, however, their extra cleaning power is even more appreciated now than before, so it’s a worth-while expense. I use a combination of a regular v-cut brush/travel tooth brush and Ortho ReadyBrushes when away from home, though (depending on purse size). The travel implements also needed to be budgeted, not as painful as extra Sonicare heads, though.
   • Wax (more on that later). I’ve already used an alarming amount. Luckily it isn’t that expensive, but during period of extreme irritation I’ve actually managed to use an entire packet of the OrthoSil “wax” in a single day. Thank goodness for bulk purchases.
   • Various other dental implements like threader floss, interdental brushes and various numbing methods for the fading but still present irritation of tongue and cheeks. This also includes dental implements bought on a whim, I’m sure this will fade with time, but never has the dental hygiene aisle been of so much interest to me than it has in the last month or so. Anything that seems like it’ll make flossing quicker or easier or relieve some of the discomfort of the brackets has swiftly made its way into my shopping basket. It all adds up.
   • A higher quality of restaurants. An odd one, but you never realize how much the quality of an establishment’s bathroom matters until you find yourself brushing your teeth in it. A hole in the wall diner may have fabulous food, but if it doesn’t pass the bathroom hygiene test it may be off my list for the next couple of years.
     (just to note, I’m not making anything from the various links, just linking to products I’ve used that I’ve liked)
2. Comparisons and expectations. When I first decided to finally take the leap and embark on this journey I did as much research as I could. A lot of this took the form of reading other’s experiences and while a lot of it has held true and it was definitely a great way to gauge what I could expect (and if I could handle what was to come) I’ve had to keep reminding myself that everyone is different! The number of stories I’ve read that involved people not needing wax at all or talking about how after a week or 2 they were done with it were great, but it started to make me feel like I was must be a wimp or really unusual because I was still using it in some areas even 6 weeks in. Well, that’s life. Wax is there for my comfort and it isn’t a competition. If I’m still using it the day before my brackets come off so be it! I’d rather be comfortable than wax free and that’s why some stores sell it by the case.
3. Food. It’s only been a little over a month and I’m already getting somewhat adventurous. Yes, mashed potatoes are still a staple in our household and yes, I’m still amazed at how much I can eat without chewing. However, I was expecting 2 years of knife and fork usage for everything and years of cautioning myself away from all those do not eats on the lists. Well, I’ve already eaten a hamburger the good old fashioned way, and while being a bit awkward it was less so than a knife and fork to me and some with caution experimenting with of those cautionary foods (with Orthodontist permission no less!) is next on my list.
4. Gum. I was so overjoyed when my orthodontist said that not only could I continue to chew gum, but it was actually encouraged. I wouldn’t have to give up my gum addiction! Nothing works better to break an addiction than making some a chore. There is no pleasure in chewing gum now, it’s uncomfortable and awkward. It did help with some of the initial pain relief and helping me adjust to chewing again, but I no longer dive for the gum pack after finishing every meal. It’s lost all pleasure.