Jaws

So it's done. 

I have braces.

There was an 9 year old girl having hers done at the same time. Her mom sat with her and patted her leg the whole time. Although the mom kept reassuring me it was a breeze and she didn't even need to be there. All the same, it was really sweet.*

I was laughing to myself thinking about what Rawbean would say. So in the spirit of her cartoons, I've drawn what my teeth were going through.

Getting them on is a breeze. The worst part is wearing the cheek separators, but it's not painful. My orthodontist was walking around saying in the most sarcastic voice ever:

"The feeling of anticipation and joy in here is wondrous today! Everyone is so excited!!"

..as we glared at him behind our cheek separators...

My brain vibrated when he ground down the bands on my back teeth, but again it didn't hurt.

I'm on Day 3 and now have a taste of how important the dental wax is. One entire side of my mouth is ripped apart** so I'm curling up with my little packages of dental wax, some Tylenol and my book. There is no PAIN associated with any of this. Today I feel a bit of pressure on my teeth, but that's it. My teeth are a little sensitive if I bite or chew hard things so I'm careful for now.

I also have a cold*** so have taken a day off work. I think I deserve it?

Last night we watched The Spy Who Loved Me (for Jaws). I've met one consultant who I didn't know before - no reaction. I met a client who I already knew - he grabbed my arm and smiled. My workmates are really supportive and understanding....now I need to OWN it and get over being self conscious.


*After spending half an hour the first night trying to figure out how to floss, I thought about that little girl and how she's doing. I only have top braces - for now.
 ** Okay I'm exaggerating but it's sore.
***I am a thing of beauty today, trust me.