My Childhood Orthodontist Misadventures | Little Neck Braces

Braces Bound: My Childhood Orthodontist Adventures

Getting braces as a pre-teen is practically a rite of passage. All my friends were gleefully showing off their new metal mouths at school, so I was thrilled when my mom finally scheduled me an appointment with our local little neck orthodontist. However, I quickly realized that those clunky braces came with major lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes orthodontic work can be downright traumatic for an awkward tween!

The Fateful First Fitting

I'll never forget my first visit to Dr. Randall's orthodontic clinic. My mom dropped me off after school one Tuesday afternoon. I bounced into the office excited to pick out my bands and finally look "cool." However, the visit took a turn when I first sat in the pleather examination chair.

Dr. Randall was nice enough, but he immediately pried my mouth open to examine my teeth. As he poked around with his little dental mirror and pick, he muttered things like "severe overbite" and "narrow palate." I had no idea what any of that meant, but it didn't sound good based on his furrowed brows.

Braces From Hell

After what felt like hours of uncomfortable prodding, I left the little neck orthodontist in tears with chunky metal braces glued to my teeth. He had crammed so much hardware in my mouth that I could barely speak or swallow. I had to wear elastic bands, this awful headgear contraption at night, and even this weird plastic palate expander.

My friends had glamorous or colorful little braces. Meanwhile, I looked like Jaws from the James Bond movies. Going back to 6th grade with a mouth full of metal was difficult. I had to deal with bullies calling me "Metal Mouth" and got tired of choking down mushy cafeteria lunches. Things only got more intense from there...

The Dreaded Monthly Adjustments

Every four weeks, my mom would drive me back to see Dr. Randall for my regular orthodontic check-ups. At each visit, the receptionists made me wait until LAST to be seen. By the time I finally got called back, my heart would race with anxiety.

In the exam chair, Dr. Randall would frown while examining my teeth with his little metal tools for what felt like hours. Then he'd break out this menacing contraption that looked like pliers for turning the braces wires. Cranking that thing made the wires pinch my gums something fierce!

Next came the colored elastic bands, which he would loop around each bracket and snap into place. He'd loop one more band than last time, stretching them so tight that my teeth ached for days. With tears welling up, I'd ask when the braces would finally come off. "Maybe another year or so," he'd mutter before sending me off.

Freedom at Last

Over three long years, I endured so many painful adjustments, trauma to my gums, and 30+ hours with my jaws wired shut for corrective surgery. But one beautiful spring day just before I started high school, my little neck orthodontist called me back to his office beaming.

"Well, I think we're finally done here," Dr. Randall announced. He slowly removed each bracket and wire, freeing me from my metallic prison. My smile shone wider than ever from ear-to-ear. I no longer had to hide my mouth or plan my meals around what I could chew.

It was all worth it when I looked in the mirror once the braces came off. My teeth were perfectly straight and as white as pearls! And believe it or not, I actually missed my braces a bit later on. They were like an old friend who helped shape my childhood smile. But I definitely do NOT miss visiting the orthodontist!

FAQs

Is it normal for braces to be really painful?

Some amount of discomfort is unavoidable with braces, especially after each adjustment when the orthodontist tightens the wires. However, severe pain that persists for more than a few days is not normal. Contact your orthodontist if you experience excessive pain.

How long will I need to wear braces?

The average braces treatment lasts 1-3 years. The exact length depends on the severity of your bite issues and how diligently you wear rubber bands, headgear, and comply with care instructions. Adults typically wear braces longer than teens.

Can I play sports with braces?

Yes, you can and should stay active with braces. Wear a mouthguard to protect your orthodontic hardware during any contact sports. Temporarily removing bands/wires for an event is not recommended as it can extend overall treatment time.

What if a brace breaks or comes loose?

If a band, bracket, or wire comes loose, call your orthodontist immediately to schedule a repair appointment. Leaving braces broken for an extended period can impact your treatment plan. Most offices have flexible hours and emergency slots.