Braces Update, February 18, 2010
I had X-rays, a deep cleaning, a fluoride treatment, and lastly braces tightened today. The hygienist determined my braces would not hinder the X-rays from being done- oh joy =(. At least they were unremarkable. The hygienist said I was doing well with my at-home cleanings, which made me feel good because she normally criticizes most people; my husband always tries to avoid her. I did have a small issue with one of my right lower molars and left gum abrasion due to my braces so she recommended Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Oral Cleanser (non-prescription rinse, mint flavored peroxide with equal parts water). I bought a bottle from my local CVS. Blue and grey ligatures this time since he was running out of the blues and didn’t have any pinks like I wanted. I also found out that Dr. B cannot correct my cross-bite without causing further bone loss which I’m extremely unhappy about. I can’t say I’ve totally wasted money getting braces, but I think more should be done to correct my bite. I guess I had a very bad over-bite and over-crowded lowers to begin with, which limits the total progress of this experience. I don’t know; I’m still upset obviously. A lot of effort went into this whole thing. Dr. L suggested they might have to push two left lower molars back to make room for a dental implant, but Dr. B didn’t agree that it was necessary so I will end up with a small gap on my lower left.  The dental implant is very expensive too (almost half the cost of braces) so maybe not the greatest idea? I keep trying to remind myself that I’ve come a long way and that no one can really see the gap unless I voluntarily open my mouth.
