I had braces for the last 18 months and got them off yesterday. It was totally worth the pain and expense. I don't recognize my own teeth. (Please disregard the dumb protective eyewear)
THEN we had our second appointment with our midwife and heard the heartbeat for the first time, nice and strong at 158. I couldn't take my eyes off my husband's face, he looked so amazed and so, so happy.
THEN I got home to a package on my doorstep from my mom, full of brand new maternity clothes she bought for me. It was so generous.
I just feel super blessed! Thanks for letting me squee about my day ![]()

Re: AW - best day ever PIP
CJ 05/29/2013
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DS born 6/2013
I say go for it! It had braces in junior high but for a lot of reasons, the first attempt wasn't successful. I got braces again at age 30 and it was a great decision. My husband was wonderful and supportive about it, and we were able to finance (interest free) what insurance didn't cover. I highly recommend getting started, I wish I had done it earlier. My bite is so much better, and I don't feel like I'll cringe at my smile in photos anymore. Good luck with whatever you decide!
Unexplained Infertility
After two Clomid cycles, three injectable IUI cycles, two IVFs, two miscarriages, and one lap surgery, IVF #2 has brought us our little boy!
TTC #2
After months of being postponed or cancelled, FET #1.3 (Natural FET) brought us twin girls!
Oh hang in there! It's definitely worth it! I couldn't eat solid food for 6 weeks after my braces went on (I know that's highly unusual, and it really sucked). I thought I made the biggest mistake of my life but in the end, I'm so so glad I did it. You're almost out of the worst of it (at least from my experience - every case is different). Good luck!
Totally look into the Damon system. It's supposed to be quicker and less painful and similarly priced compared to traditional braces.