Newbie to the board, mid 30's, female, have had braces since August 2016. Had 3 extractions prior to getting wired, already had a molar removed when I was 18 and had a mirror tooth removed opposite the gap and on my upper jaw (L & R). The extractions took almost 3 hours all up (was supposed to be done in 45 mins) and I had 23 local anesthetics during that time. Mind you I didn't really care as I'd just gotten engaged that morning
Wound up with dry socket in the lower left extraction site, that was hell on earth and took 3 weeks to clear up as food kept getting sneaking under the dressing and I ended up with an infection as well as dry socket pain. Had to take two weeks off work and get daily excavations of the infected site for the first week- an experience I would not wish on anyone! Well, except maybe the current POTUS
Despite that horrible experience, I love my braces. LOVE. In only 6 months my teeth have straightened up so much that other than the extraction gaps, people keep saying surely the braces must be coming off soon (nope- got another 2 years in them, have a terrible bite). I look forward to my ortho appointments, love the feeling of my teeth moving- hope I'm not the only weirdo who doesn't mind the pain? After so many years of painful crowded teeth it just feels so good to finally be doing something about it.
And when they come off, I'll have a great smile for my wedding photos
