I’m Sporting Rubber Bands!

It’s been a while since my last post, but things have been progressing well! At my last appointment, Dr. Chapman told me it was time for me to wear (gulp) rubber bands. I’d been anticipating this, but was hoping that I may be the lucky patient who wouldn’t need them. Ha! Dr. Chapman explained that I need them so that my jaw can be gently pulled into the correct place for my bite. Sharla, one of his assistants showed me how to insert a rubber bands by threading it over little hooks, and then I was guided over to an area where I could insert the other one. No pressure right?? It took me a while. I cannot lie, it was not fun. I was also told to wear them ALL THE TIME. When I’m eating, when I’m sleeping, when I’m out and about . . . all the time. The only time they can come out is when I am brushing my teeth. Not wearing them can really slow the amount of time that I’m in my braces, so it’s a no brainer for me.

For the first few days, I was very frustrated getting them in everyday. I was given a handy tool that definitely helped, but it was still quite a process! My kids were shocked that I went with clear bands as they were hoping that I would support the Oregon Ducks by wearing green and yellow. Um, no.

I was also amazed at how many rubber bands I eat on a daily basis… Thank goodness I was given 2 bags to go through! The good news is that it is now a breeze to put them on. I’m so used to doing it that it takes less than a minute. I am finding that I can feel a difference where my teeth touch! Part of my issue has been that my lower front teeth push against the back of my upper front teeth. That is changing! Wow, who would have thought these little rubber bands could make such a difference.

So, that’s where I am at this point. My teeth are looking really good and I can’t wait for the day that Dr. Chapman says those magic words, “Your braces can come off!” It has been far easier than I ever imagined, and I can’t wait to see the final results!

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