Metal Mouth Message Board

I mostly ate soft foods like applesauce, soup, and jelly sandwiches until I was able to handle harder foods. The pain should not last long.

I frequently use my ortho tip for my Waterpik. I think it's great!

I just got my Essix retainer today for my top teeth and will get the one for my lower teeth tomorrow. I haven't had any pain yet. I was looking into getting Hawley retainers to allow me to have colored drinks with them in. Do most orthodontists make you pay for a second retainer?

My rubber bands were mostly painless, with just some slight pressure when changing out the elastics. Just wear them as directed, and you should be great.

Congratulations on beginning your braces experience! The pain will only last for a few days, and eating soft foods like applesauce and yogurt should make eating easier. After a few days, a gradual shift to harder foods will make the transition easier.

The elastics may be painful for a couple of days and it may take some getting used to taking them off and putting them on (especially in front of others). After a few days, they should be painless so long as you continue to wear them as directed. What is the orientation of your elastics?

Debracing may be a daunting experience, but it is definitely rewarding! I am in full time retainer wear for now, but I enjoy how my teeth look so big and beautiful!

I have Essix retainers and continue to wear them full time. I think that wearing them too much has never been a problem as long as they remain clean.