Hi! My name is Amanda, I'm from Barrie, Ontario and here is my "first day story"...

For as long as I can remember, I've always been self conscious of my teeth... I was what you all know as a 'closed-mouthed smiler.' While my friends were complaining about having to get braces, I was WISHING I could get them, but at the time my parents couldn't afford them. As soon as I graduated college and landed a job, I was at my consult appointment! (I'm 24 by the way).

I was all gung-ho to put the braces on, but instead I had to wear an 'appliance' to expand my palate. I absolutely loathed that thing and I was soooo happy to get rid of it after 6 months. It wasn't that bad actually, just awkward and embarrassing. (Although, after reading other people's stories about surgery and spacers, I've realized how lucky I've been with my treatment).

Finally, the day came to put the braces on. I got ceramic braces just on the top (I didn't bother with the bottoms since they're already straight). It didn't take long at all, about 45 minutes. The assistant actually complimented my teeth (first time in my life!) saying that they were a nice shape and that they're "going to look gorgeous when they're done!" That was really encouraging. They asked what colour of 'donuts' (elastic ligatures) I'd like, and being in a fluster I picked blue without thinking. When I looked at myself in the mirror, I thought I looked like I was 12 years old. It was really weird to try to close my lips over the braces too... they felt so strange and foreign in my mouth.

The next couple of days were uncomfortable, but not unbearable and the silicone wax they gave me was a godsend for my lips! I even went to work the next night and managed just fine. My coworkers were really cool about them- most people have either had braces or have kids who do, so they're very understanding.

I eventually changed my blue donuts for gray ones, and they're not as noticeable, so I like them much better. Next week I have my first wire change. I don't even notice my braces anymore and can eat almost anything (tip: don't eat salad in public!). Not to mention how much my teeth have shifted already! I can already see major improvement... to anyone else who's just starting this process or thinking of it, it only gets better! Trust me, the first few days are the worst part and then you're in the clear. It's all worthwhile in the end!