Trevor Dailey's Weblog

I am over the age of 40, and I now have orthodontics braces for the first time. Although braces can be put on teeth at any age, most people have braces in their teens; however; it seems more adults are getting braces. I am extremely fortunate that my dentist is providing this valuable service to me free of charge. One person who would benefit from dental improvement the most is selected per year for free dental care. I never thought I would ever be able to afford fixing my teeth, so I never thought I would be able to have this done.

Right now, only my top teeth have braces. Just the brackets that are attached to each tooth, and a wire. It took 2 to 2 and a half hours just to do the top. The bottom teeth will be done later. I expect this to be just as long. My teeth are crowded and misaligned in many places making the proceedure challenging. 

Besides the braces being a minor irritant, they do not bother me much at all, and I will get used to them in time. I have had no pain from the braces, as I expected. What does bother me is having to change my diet and leaning how to eat a different way. 

One can't eat certain types of foods while teeth braces are attached to avoid damage to the braces and causing tooth decay because the braces are difficult to clean. Eating is no longer something I take for granted anymore, it is no longer enjoyable, and it is something I am finding I avoid for as long as possible. Figuring out what to eat is difficult for me. I don't normally eat a variety of foods, so having to eliminate some staple foods like breads, tea, and peanut butter causes problems for me. Of course, I should just as my dentist if I can eat a certain food or not. Once I get used to it, things should improve.

Cleaning of the braces is the biggest problem. It takes a lot of time. It is the flossing that takes so long. Flossing is difficult, time consuming, and very frustrating. My dentist provided me with instructions and supplies, but it is very difficult to do. However, cleaning my braced teeth is extremely important, so I do my best. 

My crowded and misaligned teeth adult teeth have had a rough time of it over some 30 years. It will be years more before this metal is removed from my teeth, but it will be worth it in the end. Having healthy teeth, and a not being afraid to smile, is going to change my life.

© Trevor Dailey