Michelle's Journey-SARPE, Braces and Jaw Surgery

Sinus Infections suck!

2009-02-05T12:02:00.002-05:00

I started feeling like crap the beginning of last week. I started pushing the vitamin C and drinking lots. By Friday I was exhausted, and by Monday I couldn't believe how sick I was. I really thought it was just a bad cold I had a horrible cough which isn't common for me. So, I went to the doctors yesterday morning and was given an antibiotic for a sinus infection. I can't believe how much better I feel today. It obviously wasn't just viral like I had originally though. Thank goodness I went to the doctors, last night my back molars were hurting me so bad I couldn't stand it. It's weird how all of that is connected. What a difference 24 hours makes. I'm certainly not 100% but, I'm well on my way!
How's everyone else feeling these days? It is so cold out today! Come on spring!!

My daughters debracing date is coming up in 13 days. I'm really happy for her, but so envious too! I can't wait to have no metal in my mouth. What a wonderful feeling that will be!!

What do you think??

2009-01-22T20:31:00.003-05:00

My adjustment today was pretty minor. I still have to wear 1 elastic and he did a few minor tweaks.
I asked Kelly the Tech. if she had any idea how much longer. She left to ask Dr. Post and we agreed that if it was a long time she wouldn't share it with me. When she came back though, she was smiling. Dr. Post says at this point we are month to month. He'll do the little things he needs to and we'll just wait and see how cooperative my teeth are.
My daughter Kate has a debracing date of February 19th. I'm so excited for her! That will also be my next adjustment.
What do you think of my progress?

It's me...can you believe it?!?!

2009-01-22T14:37:00.000-05:00

Wow, has it been a long time. Sorry.
I'm not really sure what happened myself but, the whole surgery thing consumed me. I think I was so worked up about being wired. Mentally, I was really trying to prepare myself for it and then BAM… it was cancelled. Don't get me wrong, I love the way my teeth are coming along. They look better than I ever thought they would. I still feel like I smile weird. It's just not "me". Whatever that is anymore. I still go and get my adjustments every month and never once have I asked about a debracing date. I would love to know, but I don't want to get my hopes up. I'm such a black and white person that when something gets told to me, it's hard for me to sway from that. Maybe that's why I've had such a hard time with this whole process. Nothing seems to ever be set in stone.
I don't regret for a minute that I did it though. When all of this metal finally comes out of my mouth, I'm sure I'll love my new look.
I've been trying to catch up on everyone's blogs. You are all very amazing people. I will try very hard not to disappear again.
I have an adjustment today. I'll post again after that and maybe add a long overdue photo.
I've missed you guys!!!

Sorry for the absence

2008-07-15T14:56:00.000-04:00

Things have been a bit stressful lately and I've kind of gone into shutdown mode. Remember a bit back when I said I was having trouble with my tailbone. Well, they did a colonoscopy and after a few days of anxiously awaiting the results, things ended up okay. Then, they recommended a cat scan and after the nurse told me everything looked okay, I received a call several hours later at 5:20pm saying that in fact it wasn't okay. They found a spot on my hip that had them concerned. I had to have an MRI on Saturday. So since then, I have been staying home thinking the worst. Late yesterday afternoon, I finally received word that it was benign. Thank God!! I kept thinking in my head that my surgery must have been cancelled because I had bigger issues to tackle. It's funny what your mind can do to you.
A few years back, my niece was diagnosed with leukemia, and I was so strong. I took charge and researched, and did everything I needed to do to help her beat it. When it came to the unknown for me recently, I fell apart. Too much on my plate I guess.

As far as my teeth, I'm in a triangle elastic on my right side, helping to pull my bite a little more together. He did that last Wednesday. It hurt the first few days, but now I barely notice it.

I tried to catch up on a few of the blogs and am just amazed at how well all of you are doing. Holly… you look great! Rachel… what an incredible recovery you are having.

Karen, keep your chin up, my thoughts and prayers are with you!

I'll catch up with everyone else shortly, take care everyone!!

UNBELIEVABLE NEWS!!

2008-06-25T10:42:00.001-04:00

I have such incredible news to share, I can't even believe it myself. I had my molds done at the orthodontist's office the other day. Yesterday, at 4:45 I received a call from the Ortho's office saying that Dr. Post had to meet with me before I left for vacation. I immediately felt the anxiety creeping in. We were originally going to schedule something for today but, after telling her I was feeling a little anxious about this meeting, she said I could come in for 5:15. So off we went.
Dr. Post said that he had really studied my molds that afternoon and felt very strongly that with a little patience and the correct tweaking with elastics, he feels he can accomplish what we set out to do without the second surgery. I can't even believe I am writing this!! I knew my bite had really been coming together but, I never ever expected this news. I am so incredibly relieved. It hasn't really even hit me yet. I still can't believe it. Dr. Post laughed and said that I should tell my blog friends that we had something telepathically going on. I had been worried about the surgery and that had been thinking about how to correct it without the surgery. He actually said that over the last few months he had been wondering in the back of his head what or if he could do this without surgery. It seems like every month the open bite just got smaller and smaller with each adjustment. He says the SARPE wasn't even a question but, just that has made a big difference in my bite.

NOW, I just need to get my head around all of this new news and RELAX!! Relieved doesn't even begin to tell you how I feel right now!!

Help!!!

2008-06-18T10:52:00.000-04:00

Alright, I'm obsessing. I can't get it off my mind. It's consuming my every thought. I'm nervous. I remember very well how much pain I was in after the SARPE. I also know he'll be doing more this time. Just the thought of him screwing plates into my jaw and then wiring me shut, makes me sick. I feel like such a wimp. I want it done, I just don't want to go through all the pain and starvation to get there.
I had my cardiology appointment last Monday. I asked him how he recommended me taking my heart medication while I am wired. He says, "are you really going to be wired, like tightly wired?" Ah, yes! So, after thinking about it he would like me to try and fit it in the space behind my molars. If I need to cut it in half, that's okay too. I'm worried that trying to shove my fingers back there to slide a pill in after my jaw was just sawed, might not feel so good. I will ask but, I am sure my regular doctor will say the same thing about my thyroid medication and my birth control. Has anyone else had any experience with this??

I want my vacation to come quickly, I need the relaxing time at the ocean with my family BUT, I am not ready for surgery. Mentally, I just don't feel there yet. It's funny, if someone asked me a month ago, I would have said lets get it done as soon as possible. Now, with 3 weeks left, I feel sick.
I don't even know where this is coming from. I actually started this post back on the 11th and haven't been able to finish and post it.

This is so hard for me to write but, I feel like I'm going crazy. I feel like every ache and pain I have must be something bad. I actually had a colonoscopy yesterday and the doctor took some biopsies. My mind has wandered off believing I must have something horrible. I feel like I need the results immediately. Has anyone ever felt so anxious about something, you find it hard to even concentrate?

I keep telling myself to relax and to breath but, I'm finding it very difficult. I haven't even been viewing my blog for fear of the inevitable.

What on earth is wrong with me? What I would give to be 6… 8 weeks post op. Help!!

Brave???

2008-06-06T15:45:00.003-04:00

My Uncle commented to me last night that I was so brave for going ahead with this surgery. It seemed strange to me because, I certainly don't feel brave. I feel nervous. I feel like, I wish I didn't have to do it. I sat there really thinking about it. I feel like I don't really have a choice. If I want a normal bite, I have to do it. I know he meant it in the nicest way BUT, sometimes I wish people would understand that it's not just a quick decision I made so that I would look better. I would just like to be able to breath and chew like your average normal person.

34 more days.... yikes!!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

Next month...can you believe it!!!

2008-06-02T13:35:00.003-04:00

I can officially say, my surgery is next month.
Part of me can't wait and the other part of me doesn't want it to come. You know that feeling in the pit of your stomach that you get when something big is about to happen….that's what I have going on. I'm feeling a little anxious. My youngest daughter, Kate, got a little teary eyed last night when we talked about me staying overnight in the hospital. My husband and I were talking about how poorly Holly was treated while she was there and I said, that he had better not leave me, because I don't want to go through that. So Kate asks, "if he stays with you, where will I go?" Poor thing. I told her that I would be fine and that Daddy and Grandma would make sure that one of them was always with her.

I started picking up a few things at the grocery store this weekend. I wanted to make sure I had plenty of broth in the house, to mix things with so they can go through the Zip & Squeeze bags. I got a couple of soups. I actually searched the web and came up with a few different pureed soup recipes that I would like to try so I can freeze in single portions, so that all we have to do is zap it in the microwave and pour it in the bags. Viola….dinner. Seems weird to be cooking soups this time of year. I guess a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do=)

Between softball games, a baby shower, graduation, birthdays and vacation this month, along with all of my appointments, I think it is going to fly by. I feel like I am so booked up. My girlfriends and I are trying to set up a small BBQ before I go in for surgery and it just doesn't seem to be happening.

Anyway, I hope Holly, Heather and Leah are all feeling great and back to normal in no time!! My thoughts are with all of you!!

Newest Pics

2008-05-25T11:04:00.003-04:00

Here's the lastest

2008-05-20T12:18:00.001-04:00

I'm feeling a little emotional today. I just feel the need to tell you all once again how amazing you are! Just when I need a boost, you all seem to come and say just the right things! Thank you!!
Does anyone ever wonder if we'll ever meet? So many of you have made such an incredible impact on my life, that I wonder sometimes if I'll ever come face to face with any of you. Hmmm… I hope so!!

Now on to Ortho. news:

I had a regular adjustment this morning. My teeth are already hurting so, whatever he did… it's working!
I told him about my thoughts on scheduling the upcoming appointments. We were both pretty much on the same page so, that made me feel better. As more and more gets scheduled, I get a little more excited and also a little more anxious. You know, the surgery part doesn't bother me at all. It's still that whole wired shut thing I can't seem to get off my mind. Breath……..

So my appointments look like this:

June 16: Blood work (lab appt.)
June 17: Surgical Molds
June 20: EKG and Pre-Op Physical
June 28 - July 5th: VACATION
July 7: Pre-Op Hospital Interview
July 9: Surgical Spurs placed
July 10: Appt. with Dr. Weldon (OS) He wanted to see me after he received the molds and after the surgical spurs were placed.
July 11: Surgery

I am thinking that with all of these appointments and with everything else I have going on, (my daughter plays softball and with the school year coming to an end) I'll bet time is going to fly by.
I'll have to post some new pics, I decided to go with the hot pink ligs today!!

I'm looking forward to a nice long 3 day weekend. My husband took the whole weekend off. We haven't had a weekend off together in a very long time. Between his work and mine, we wake up to an alarm clock 7 days a week. Not this weekend!!!!

I hope you all enjoy your weekend too!!

Another adjustment and a little self doubt

2008-05-19T12:05:00.000-04:00

I have another adjustment tomorrow morning. I think at that time, I'll have to set up my appointments for molds and to have my surgical hooks put on. My OS says it takes about 2 weeks before he usually gets the molds so. I'm thinking, to be on the safe side, I'll try to schedule those sometime around the week of June 9th. Then, what I'm not exactly sure about is whether to have the surgical hooks put on before vacation or after? My ideal plan would be to have then placed on July 8th. The OS wants to see me before surgery but, after the hooks are in. So, I was thinking I could try and see him on the 9th and then my surgery is on the 11th. Do you think that's cutting things too close to surgery time?? It's tough, because I'm away on vacation from June 28th until July 6th so there's a week there that I'm unable to use. I guess I'll figure it out.

I have a question for all of you though. Something's really weighing on me and I have to ask you all if you have experienced it too.
Lately, I find that after people find out I'm having another surgery, they look at my teeth and ask why. Now mind you, since my SARPE, my teeth really do look so much better. It really is amazing. When I smile, they look pretty good. What they can't/don't see is that I still can't bite. I have a hard time chewing so many things. I find it hard to explain to someone that doesn't deal with it on a daily basis. I try and open my mouth and bite back down, trying to show them that my teeth just don't meet. I'm sure I look like an idiot but, I try so hard to explain to them why and they still just look at me like you are going to have your jaw broken to fix that??
So, not only am I wondering if you deal with people like that but, do you ever start to doubt your decision??
My husband keeps telling me that we've come this far, we're not stopping now. I just find myself getting a little anxious lately and questioning myself. I think it was almost easier going into the SARPE, not having any idea what to expect.
Well thanks for letting me get a few things off my chest. I'll post again tomorrow after my appointment to let you know how it went. Thanks everyone!

Another call~but wait... it's all good!

2008-05-07T14:09:00.003-04:00

Candy from the Oral Surgeon's office called me again this morning. I saw it on the caller ID, and I immediately felt panic.
All is good though. She said she wanted to call and share a little good news with me. Finally! She said she received a call from the assisting physician's office, he IS available on July 11th. She seemed to feel that for some reason, everything is falling into place much better on this day. So, at this point in time... the 11th looks really good. I won't ever say it's a definite though!

I'm not sure if I should speak the date....

2008-05-05T15:27:00.002-04:00

After a very long weekend and a few more phone calls today, I finally got my surgery date scheduled. As of right now, it looks like it will be... July 11th. Only 4 days later than expected, but still extremely frustrating to have to go through this!
I'm really hoping this date is a sure thing! I feel a little bit better about it because, the hospital just called me to set up my pre-op appt. already. This was actually a little strange because they actually called me before Candy at the OS's office did. So, I called her immediately and asked her if this date was a done deal because the hospital was trying to set up my pre-op. She said it definitely was, and that she just hadn't had a minute to call me yet. (I am so sure she is sick of talking to me) So my pre-op is set for July 7th at 8:30 (the same day I was supposed to have surgery, go figure)
I changed my countdown clock and we begin again!
Thank you all for standing by me!!

Spoken too soon

2008-05-02T09:37:00.002-04:00

I just received a call (actually 3) from Candy at my Oral Surgeon's office. She tells me that she has been arguing with the hospital because, I guess on Wednesday she received a call from them telling her that the O.R. was already booked on July 7th. That another oral surgeon got his booking sheet in before them and that he needs it for 6 hours. She tells me that she argued with him and said that they have 3 other operating rooms, but he said there is nothing he could do and that his supervisor was out until Monday.
Her only other option/thought, was that we could book it on Friday the 11th (the hospital has an opening that day) and move Dr. Weldon's regular patients to Saturday morning. At this point, I don't care what they do... they need to get me in that week!! There are two of us that do loans at work and the woman I work with will be out the last week in July and the first two weeks in August. So, Friday the 11th would be the last time I could do it and have enough time afterwards to recoup before having to go back to work.
I guess I spoke too soon didn't I?
I am supposed to hear from them today to have a little bit better of an idea as to what is happening. Please give me strength!!

Hallelujah

2008-04-28T17:52:00.002-04:00

My Insurance letter came in the mail on Friday!!! I never read the letter my Oral Surgeon sent to them but, I know it was just a matter of a few weeks ago. Harvard Pilgrim has truly been wonderful during this whole thing. It says I have been approved for:

Reconstruct Midface, Lefort

Prepare Face/Oral Prosthesis

I’m not sure in Insurance terms what exactly it means but, as long as it says the Lefort is covered, I’m good. Things seem to be moving in a positive direction lately. It feels good.

I still have moments when I get a little anxious about being wired shut. Someone posted a comment saying that while she was wired, she carried around cutters just for peace of mind. Maybe I’ll do the same thing. I know it’s all in my head; it just makes me nervous still. One reason why I think I feel this way is because I’m a mouth breather. It freaks me out a little bit to think I won’t be able to get enough air. I know, I know… all in my head.

OR… what if I have to throw up?? I remember doing this after the SARPE!!

Right now, I just can’t wait to be on the other side!

I haven’t really been watching what I eat lately. I keep telling myself that I mine as well eat while I can. I probably won’t fit into any of my summer clothes the week before surgery while I’m on vacation. lol

I have been walking a lot more lately. I want to try and be really fit and healthy when I go in this time. Maybe it will make a difference, maybe it won’t, but I figure it can’t hurt.

Work has been really good too, I was originally only planning on taking a week off just like the SARPE but, the OS said I need a minimum of two weeks. So, I won’t return until July 21^st. They’ve been letting me bank some comp. time so I won’t have to use all of my vacation time up.

I was a little surprised the Ortho. didn’t want to see me sooner, I don’t go again until May 20^th. At that time, I’ll have to set up the final appointments for molds and surgical hooks. The OS wants to see me with my new molds and hooks prior to me going on vacation.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed that everything continues to go smoothly!!

BIG NEWS!!

2008-04-15T14:29:00.002-04:00

Last week I called the OS's office a few times (okay, maybe more than a few and I am sure they got sick of hearing from me) to see if they had decided anything. Finally, on Friday I spoke with Jamie and she told me that Dr. Weldon would like to see me on Monday at 12:30. He was meeting with Dr. Post over the weekend and looking at my molds. I was so anxious all weekend wondering what he would say.
I guess the plan was for him to look at my bite, do some measurements, make a determination about exactly what would need to be done and then decide if he could do it on the 7th on his own or push it out until August and have an assisting physician available.
Well, before we left, he stated that it was a pretty straight forward surgery, similar cuts that were made for the SARPE. He said it would be a 1 piece Lefort, he will lower the maxilla and shave some of the bone above it and then try and replace it with plates and screws Jaime, his assistant, said that this is my "big surgery." He also said that he was very comfortable doing it on his own!
So… July 7th is still the day!

BUT… now we get to the scary part…
I might have to be wired shut... for 2 to 6 weeks! OMG! I'm already having a panic attack just thinking about it. My immediate response was, you didn't have to do that after my SARPE, why this time? His response was that during the SARPE he wasn't trying to match up my top jaw with my bottom one. He said that if I remembered correctly, during the SARPE, after he made the cuts, my maxilla just fell. He had to put these wires up through my maxilla to keep it stable. He says that I have very thin bones and he wants to make certain that everything heals properly. Also, because of my thin bone issue, ww don't know how well the plates and screws will hold so, keeping me wired while everything heals will help everything stay where it needs to.
So….. all of you wired people… I need to hear from you!! Just the thought makes me feel claustrophobic.
He said he may or may not keep the splint in. He'll use one to line things up but, he'll determine during surgery whether to keep it in or not.
He also said that I would be in ICU for 1 maybe 2 days. That freaks me out a little bit too. I'm excited things are moving forward yet a little scared too.
Now's the time for me to get really healthy. I've been fighting off that cold so many of you are talking about since last Thursday. It just doesn't seem to want to go away.

So, 10 1/2 weeks until vacation and 11 1/2 weeks until surgery, I can do this! The cottage we are renting in Maine sleeps 10 people. My husband and I and our 2 girls will go up on June 28th and spend until Thursday alone and then on Thursday some of my family will join us so we can celebrate July 4th with all of them, right on the beach. They will stay 2 nights. All of us have never been away together. It should be hectic but fun. I'm sure it will help keep my mind off my surgery, at that time, it will only be days away.

The real countdown begins… I hope I end up having some surgery buddies!!

This is "Pal"

2008-04-10T09:31:00.003-04:00

The first one is on the ride home. He was checking everything out for about the first half hour and then he slept the rest of the way (1 1/2 hours). When we got home, he ate, checked the place out and then fell back to sleep in Kate's arms. He had a long day!

No confirmed date yet

2008-04-09T10:22:00.001-04:00

Okay, so I talked to Candy a couple more times and Mary at the Ortho's office (who actually seemed a little annoyed with me) and this is what I've been told. Dr. Weldon (the OS) wants to see the latest molds so he can decide how in depth the surgery will be. If he feels it is something he can do on his own without an assisting physician, then he'll go ahead and keep it scheduled on July 7th. If he feels he really needs him then, we'll have to pick a new date. So, it's the hurry up and wait game right now. Candy left on vacation for a week today so, I'm hoping I don't get lost in the shuffle over there… I just feel like I deserve an answer on this, ASAP!

On a happier note, things have warmed up a little and our new kitten was able to board his flight this morning. We are hoping to have him in our possession by 3:00 today… fingers crossed! If everything goes well, I'll post a picture of the little guy.

Hopefully the next time I write, it will be with good news all around!

This can't be happening!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-02T11:49:00.001-04:00

I called the OS's office this morning to see if they received the "go ahead" letter from my Ins. Co. yet and Candy tells me that Jaime is busy but, she'll look in my file to see where we were at. She then proceeds to tell me, that a call has been put into the Ortho. to see if we can do the surgery on June 23rd. Are you f***ing kidding me???? I then tried to calmly explain to her that I leave to go on vacation from June 28th - July 5th…the vacation I planned so early on in the summer because, THEY scheduled my surgery for the 7th! She said that the assisting physician that Dr. Weldon likes to work with is unavailable for July 7th. Wonder when they were going to tell me?
So, she said she would get back to me after she spoke to Jaime. Then I get a message (I stepped out of my office for a minute) stating that the 14th, and the 21st weren't any good either.

I called her back and just as I start to speak, I start crying. I try to explain to her that this is my life they are screwing with and that maybe I need to speak to the doctor. I tried to tell her that my "summer vacation" deposit for my cottage was sent already and scheduled around this date they gave me, that the following week was scheduled at work for me to be out, that my mother also took the week off to help out, that my physical and EKG were already scheduled. She apologized and I understand it's not her fault but, I would think that as soon as they found out about this, they should have called me immediately! I find it funny that I only found out after I called them.
So… she said she would call back again after she spoke with the doctor. I'm sure at this point there is nothing they can do. I just don't understand why I can't seem to get this surgery set in stone.

I'm sure one of the reasons I was so upset was because, we had been looking for a particular kitten for quite a while. (we have 1 already and love the breed) So, right before Christmas I found a lady in Nova Scotia that was going to be having a litter in January. So, after they were born, she forwarded pictures and we picked out our new kitten. It would be ready to go March 17th. So, we started planning a trip to go get him but, found out that the ferry we would catch in Portland, Maine doesn't start running again until May. So then we decided to buy him a plane ticket. Then, we were told that they don't allow "live cargo" on board until April 1st. Not a huge deal, so the breeder booked his flight for the 1st. We were all set to leave for the airport yesterday afternoon and I get an e-mail from her saying that she was missing one piece of paperwork for customs and that they wouldn't let her board him. So, they schedule him for a flight this morning. So this morning, we get up at 5:00am to head to the airport, which is 2 hours away, and I get another call from her. The airline thought it was a little cold this morning for him to fly so… we had to turn around AGAIN. We're now shooting for Friday morning. I'm tired and grumpy and can't for the life of me figure out why everything seems so difficult for me right now. I know it's not all life altering stuff I am complaining about, and I am very lucky to have a wonderful healthy husband and great healthy kids. I'm just getting discouraged. I have been doing really well lately keeping my chin up. But man…how much can a girl take.
Sorry for my ranting and my language above, I just needed to get this off my chest! I'll keep you all posted. I keep thinking that maybe this 2nd surgery isn't in the cards for me.

More progress!!!

2008-03-27T18:18:00.004-04:00

Okay, I went to see the Ortho. this afternoon to get my wires removed for my cleaning and to fix my TPA problem. (see last post) So, when I arrived, Dr. Post immediately came over to remove my wires. Then he said he had to remove the back left band and solder a part on a new one for the TPA to fit in. OUCH, that band did not want to come out. As he was twisting and yanking, I kept thinking… is my tooth coming out with it??? Next he removed the bottom wire and while doing so, he popped off a bracket. So he had Heather come over and put the new band back on and had her prep the tooth to replace the bracket.

Next, I went off to my cleaning. She said I was the third adult in braces for her today. I find this so weird because I very rarely run into any adults in braces. Wish I would though. Anyways, she said I was doing a great job with my cleaning. That made me feel really good because I do try.

Now, back at the Ortho. office, Dr. Post tweaks my wires before he puts them back in. This surprised me because I was only there a few weeks ago. I’m in favor of any tweaking though. Then, he starts to put my TPA back in and the part he just soldered on breaks off again. He says “you win, we’ll keep it out.” WOOO HOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!! He says that the wire on top is so strong, it should prevent anything from relapsing. I am so happy, it feels incredible to be able to feel the full rounded roof of my mouth. I definitely feel like I speak more clearly without it too.

I’m going to try and post a pic I fiddled with in paint. I’m not great at all of this stuff but, I was hoping to point out to you the things that still bother me. My midlines are off a little and I still have that tiny triangle gap in between my two front teeth but, the thing that bothers me most is the “open bite” on either side of my front teeth. I know my open bite has closed considerably but I can’t figure out how he’ll close the openings on either side. Maybe the surgery will correct this.

Dr. Post also told me that he spoke with Dr. Weldon’s office and that July 7^th is a definite! The countdown begins. Right now, it seems like a long time away but, I’ll bet it will be here before I know it. It’s time to get healthy and start exercising regularly! Hopefully everything is still a GO with the Ins. Co.

POP

2008-03-27T11:51:00.001-04:00

So, about 6:00 last night, I was eating dinner and POP, the inside bracket that holds my TPA on the left side broke off. It was poking me a bit so I decided to call and see if I should do anything. The answering machine gives Dr. Posts number and one of the Tech's, Deb. I decided to give Deb a call to see what she thought. I ended up meeting her at the Ortho's office at 7:00pm (thank you Deb!!!) and she ended up just taking the TPA out for the night. I have appt.'s to go in today to have my wires removed and replaced for my cleaning this afternoon. Deb said after the cleaning, she would just stay late and get a new band put back on so the TPA can be replaced.
Last night though, felt wonderful!! It has been 10 very long months with something on the roof of my mouth. I feel like I speak more clearly already. I would love for him to say it can stay out but, I know he's not going to. I'll post a couple of pics tonight after I get out of work. For the first time in a while now, I'm starting to really like the results I'm seeing.

Happy Easter

2008-03-21T11:41:00.002-04:00

I wanted to wish you all a Happy Easter!!

I am sure this is what the Easter Bunny will be bringing me...

Staying Positive

2008-03-17T19:32:00.002-04:00

Okay, I’m trying to get out of the rut I’m in and look at things in a more positive light. I feel good and I’m trying to think positively about my next appointment with the doctor. I’m sure everything will work out just fine.

When I was at my last Ortho. appointment, Dr. Post told me he would be contacting the Oral Surgeon and that I should do the same. He said we could schedule something in either July or August. So I called and spoke with Jamie, she said that July 7th works well for them. I wasn’t at first, overly thrilled with this date but, I’ll work with it. Now I’m trying to work vacation into the week prior to this so my family and I can have a nice relaxing time together before the big day. This could be tough though, being the 4th of July week and all. Hopefully all of the homes/cottages in Maine aren’t all booked that week already.
I’m trying to relax and not etch this date in stone yet. After what happened, I don’t want to get too disappointed if it doesn’t work out. Hopefully all goes well with the Ins. Co.

I have to post some more pictures soon. I can’t believe the changes that are still happening. My open bite has closed significantly. When I slide my bottom jaw forward a tiny bit, I can actually touch my top and bottom teeth. I have never in my life been able to do that before. It’s so exciting!

Next Thursday is the big cleaning day! Woo Hoo! It’s so time consuming though. To the Ortho. to have the wires removed, to the dentist for the cleaning, then back to the Ortho. to have the wires replaced… there goes your afternoon. My husband and youngest daughter also have cleanings the same afternoon. It’ll be a family affair.

Thanks fellow Ortho. bloggers for your positive words when I needed them most!

More bad news

2008-03-13T13:44:00.000-04:00

So things haven't gotten much better for me lately but, I am trying really hard to keep my chin up.

I went to the Ortho yesterday, for a scheduled adjustment. He looked around in there for a while, changed the bottom wire, tweaked the top one and then took out my TPA. Oh, it felt so good but, then he put it back in. He wants to create a little more room. Not sure why we didn't do it while the expander was in?? Who knows. The worst part of the appointment was that he said he spoke with my O.S.'s office again. He strongly feels that the surgery should be scheduled for July or August. How discouraging! I was really hoping for this to be behind me BEFORE summer. He wants me back in 4 weeks to change my lower wire again.

On an unrelated issue, I've been dealing with other health issues lately. I was diagnosed with Graves Disease back in 2000. This means I was hyperthyroid. After trying to fix it for a few years without luck, they gave me some radio-active iodine to basically kill my thyroid. Now I take a thyroid medication everyday and things have been going pretty well over the last few years. When you are hyperthyroid, everything in your body speeds up, when you go hypothyroid, it slows everything down. So, we've noticed over the years that every time my thyroid goes too low, my heart beats a little funky. They actually call it a minor prolonged QT. My heart doesn't shock itself to start beating again, quickly enough and I guess it has gotten worse all of a sudden. It's actually all very confusing. Anyway, to try and correct this issue, my thyroid medicine has been upped and I have to take a small dose of a beta-blocker and then get rechecked again in 4 weeks. I'm crossing my fingers, all goes well. It's weighing on me heavily! It sounds ridiculous, but one of my first questions to the doctor was if this was going to have any effect on my upcoming surgery plans. He didn't think so. I'm praying that the Ins. Co. doesn't try to change their mind and say I'm a risk now. I truly believe your not given more than you can handle… but lately I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. I need a break from all this negative news!

2008-02-26T11:28:00.005-05:00

Thanks everyone for all of your wonderful comments and support. Some days are just tougher than others, I know you all know what I mean.
So, we have yet another snowstorm coming our way, I don't think spring will ever come. We have so much snow, I'm sure it will take till May to have it all melt. I keep telling myself that all of the shoveling is such good exercise (I have to get something positive out of it).

I have had a cleaning appointment scheduled for March 27th for a while now, I have held off canceling it just in case "something" came up with my surgery date. Good thing. At least something to look forward to. It's pretty pathetic when your looking forward to a teeth cleaning appt, huh?
I called the Ortho's office yesterday morning just to ask if they had latex free ligs. The secretary wasn't sure, but said she would have somebody call me back. Still haven't heard anything. At least I put a bug in their ears though.
Not much new to report about my teeth. I think I'll post another picture soon. Maybe comparing it to my last ones might make me feel like something small might be happening. He did put a heavy duty square wire in last time.
The small gap between my two front teeth still bugs me. I'm constantly putting my tongue up there and sucking any spit or drink that sits there. I know, it sounds gross I think it's a habit now. I'll have to try and be aware of when I'm doing it so I can try to stop.

Keep Smiling everyone!

Just another day...

2008-02-22T12:25:00.002-05:00

It's been a few days, and I'm trying really hard to think positive. As disappointed as I am, how I feel is not going to change anything. I need to march forward and hope for the best. Thank you, for all the support you have sent my way:)

If you have been reading my blog for a little while, you will know that I have had a really hard time with my lips. They are still quite sore most of the time and after an adjustment, they get incredibly swollen and really hurt for several days after. During the really difficult weeks, I use the hydrocortisone ointment that the dermatologist recommended. It helps, but only briefly. So, I decided to try and research this a little more. Just recently, someone posted a message on Archwired, saying that they thought they were allergic to the archwire or the ligs because of swelling. Then, a few other people posted similar issues. The consensus seemed to be that it may be an allergic reaction to the elastic ligs. Now, I have never known I was allergic to latex before, but maybe my body has decided it doesn't like it anymore. I'm guessing now, when you go to the doctors, I'll bet most places use latex free. So, I'm going to check with the Ortho. First, to see if he uses latex free gloves and also to see if he has any latex free ligs. I hope he does just so I can see if this is the problem. If it isn't, I may just have to deal with the fact that the metal in the wires is the culprit. I'd like to be able to rule out the latex first though.

On another note, something else has been bothering me too. I wonder if anyone else feels the same way? I started this blog, and it has helped me immensely. The friends I have made and the support group we have, is invaluable. What bothers me though, is that I have told my family and friends all about it, I told them I write down what's going on, post pictures… and do you think they would ever go to it?? No! Just once I would like to be surprised by a message from them. I just don't understand why something that means so much to me, means nothing to them. Maybe this whole orthodontic journey has consumed me and they are sick of hearing about it. I just don't know! At least I have you guys! Thanks for letting me vent today:) I feel better already!

It's Official...

2008-02-19T18:59:00.001-05:00

My surgery has been postponed.

I can’t even begin to tell you how I feel right now. I’m at such a loss. I feel like the floor has just been pulled from underneath me. I know it’s not the end of the world… it just plain stinks though. I called the Oral Surgeon’s office hoping to get some information and he wasn’t in today so, I called my Orthodontist. His secretary said that it showed on the “screen” that my surgery had been canceled and that I had been notified this morning. Uh, it wasn’t me that was notified. She then transferred me to him.

So, he says that my bite was so bad, that he wants to get it as close as he can before surgery and he feels after looking at the new molds, I’m not there yet. I was very pleasant and told him I understood. What I really wanted to do was cry and plead my case. How can he do this? How can we be so close and then have it all left with no plan in mind? I’m crushed.

Only time will tell

2008-02-14T15:53:00.002-05:00

It just hasn't been a good day.

I went to my appointment this morning and had the new bands put on, x-rays, molds, wax bite and the newest adjustment. My teeth and jaw are killing me. It's weird, after every adjustment, my lips get very swollen and really, really red. I must be allergic to something going on in there. So after all of that, he said he would look at the molds and get them over to the OS's office right away. He also had me schedule a date for my surgical hooks on March 12th. Aside from being sore, I left there feeling pretty good.
Now, comes the bad news…
My husband brought my daughter to her appointment this afternoon. While waiting for her adjustment, Dr. Post mentioned to him, that he is concerned that the cart got before the horse and is not so sure I'm ready for surgery. He says he is meeting with Dr. Weldon tonight to discuss my case.
I'm just at a loss for words! I wish they had communicated this before I was given a date and gotten my hopes up. I have scheduled everything already, the physical, the pre-op at the hospital, my vacation at work. Now it looks like I might be canceling all of it. So, both offices are closed on Friday, my guess is I won't be getting any information before next week sometime. Lucky me!
I know I need to be patient and make sure everything is aligned properly before the surgery, I'm just terribly disappointed.
I'll let you all know as soon as I hear something.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone:)

Another day, another delay

2008-02-13T09:40:00.001-05:00

I just feel so down lately. I want to get some concrete news so I have something to plan for. I am such a planner. It helps on vacations, but not a good thing for this journey!
I was all set to have my adjustment, molds and x-rays this morning BUT, due to this delightful weather we are having up here in New England, it's a no go for today. They said I could come in tomorrow at 9:45 instead. I know it's only a day, but I feel like everything seems to be falling out of place orthodontics wise.
The OS office just called and said the Insurance company really needs copies of my molds and x-rays. I'm trying! With my luck, the Ortho. will give me the go ahead and then the Ins. Co. will hold me up. UGGGHHHH!!! It's just a bad day. I'm tired and I'm sick of snow and ice!!! Come on Spring!
I'll post again tomorrow after my appointment, hopefully!!

WHAT??!!??

2008-02-06T17:10:00.000-05:00

I went to the orthodontists office today, to have the spacers put in between my lower back bottom molars. While I was there, I asked Dr. Post, if Dr Weldon the oral surgeon, contacted him about my upcoming surgery date. He said, NO. What?!?! No?? His office told me that they contacted him. UGH!!!! I’m scheduled next Wednesday to have the back bands put on, new x-rays and molds. Then, he said he’ll decide if I’m ready for surgery. You have to be kidding me! Then he’ll decide?? I already have my life planned…
He did ask when would be good for me. I told him March 24th works. I want this so bad. I want to be healed enough to go away on a nice vacation this summer without having to worry about eating, or lack of eating. Last summer was ruined by my last surgery. I mean, not ruined. I wanted it done, it’s just that I really wanted to plan a nice vacation and have this final surgery out of the way. The braces I can deal with, it’s the surgery looming over my head that I can’t stand.

I am going to be a wreck until I find out what he decides! I feel like crying.

I HAVE A DATE!!!!!

2008-01-25T11:35:00.001-05:00

I received two phone calls this morning, both from my OS's office. One was Candy, she does the Ins. processing. She said she has notes back from May stating that when we were ready for the next surgery, to just submit the information. So she thinks everything will go through just fine. The other one was from Dr. Weldon's nurse/scheduler, Jamie. She actually went in on my last surgery. She says that barring any problems with the Ins. Company, she has submitted all the paperwork to the hospital for my next surgery to be on…… drum roll please……..
MARCH 24TH!!!!
That's only 8 weeks away! I'm so excited and a little bit nervous too. I ordered the zip and squeeze stuff last week just in case. I want to start getting a game plan ready. Vitamins, exercise. I want my body to be as ready as possible this time around.

New pics, including the profile

2008-01-21T11:21:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share that dreaded profile pic. Do you see what I mean though? You could almost see where a lower advancement might work. Who knows though, I'll just leave it to the professionals.

I am amazed at how much the openbite has closed. I remember after the SARPE I could fit a whole finger into the opening. The braces have definately been doing a good job. Because of the shape of my teeth though, I don't think the braces can do anything more with the little gap in between my two front teeth. I will definately need to get that fixed, for some reason it really bothers me. I can't wait for that moment after my next surgery when I can look in the mirror and see my teeth touch for the first time ever in my life. I know exactly what Shontell means when she says she got choked up at her appointment. This has been an amazing transformation. I wonder if our doctors even know what a difference they have made in our lives.

This is going to be an awesome year.

OS Update!!

2008-01-17T19:21:00.000-05:00

I am trying not to get too excited about my appointment today. I feel like everything went so well though. He addressed my concerns that I spoke of earlier. None of which, he seemed to think were very serious. He thinks the roof of my mouth may just be from the way my bone healed after surgery. It’s really very minor and doesn’t really bother me terribly, I feel at ease with that answer and happy that something wasn’t wrong.
He thinks the clicking in my jaw is just part of my jaw problems that will hopefully be fixed with my next surgery. He was actually really pleased with the results already. When I first went to see him, when I opened my mouth, my jaw popped horribly. It’s significantly better than it was. In time, hopefully it will be fixed.
My lips… he can’t think of anything the surgery would have done to them. He said he really just thinks it’s the braces. My lips don’t close naturally, it’s definitely forced. So between that and the rubbing of the braces, he just thinks they are constantly irritated.

Ok… now for the surgery part. He said he really is pleased with the way my teeth are coming together. He still feels that upper jaw surgery is still the best choice for me. I mentioned to him that Dr. Post had mentioned a few adjustments back, a possible lower advancement. He said in his opinion, he would prefer just doing the upper jaw surgery. He said he feels we can get at least a 95%+ bite with just doing the upper jaw. He feels if you can get that close, its best not to do more if it isn’t necessary. I have thought a lot lately about how I would feel if he said this. I think I am really okay with it. I think being able to just have the one jaw done and being that close is okay with me. I have thought a lot about the complications and lingering problems you can have after lower jaw surgery so I guess, if I don’t have to chance it, I won’t. Maybe I’m just chicken to press the issue, but I really feel comfortable with this decision.

I left his office at about 4:45 and he said he was still planning to speak with the Ortho. tonight. He said he would get his staff to resubmit the Ins. paperwork to make sure we are all set there. So, before I left, he said we could tentatively look at March for a surgery date. I immediately felt the butterflies and the excitement. His practice though, is incredibly busy so, I’m not going to hold my breath until we have a definite date.

He said the cuts for the surgery are very similar to the ones he made for my SARPE. He said it’s a little more involved, but he suspects I won’t be in the hospital for more than a night or two. He said I did really well with my SARPE so it would probably just be the one night. I have to cover for somebody’s vacation at work for one week in March, but other than that, everything could potentially work out okay.

My mind is running a mile a minute. I am praying that everything just falls into place.

OS Appt. tomorrow

2008-01-16T19:01:00.000-05:00

So my appointment with the Oral Surgeon is tomorrow. I'm so worried I am going to be disappointed. I hope he at least gets the ball rolling with the Insurance company again. When he sent the request into the Ins. Co. for my SARPE, he detailed the whole game plan including my second surgery. They approved the first one so I'm hoping we won't have any trouble this time around.
I have three major concerns I want to address with him:

1. I've noticed that I have a small bump with a groove type line on the right hand side on the roof of my mouth. Sometimes lately, I notice it gets a little sore and I feel a throbbing pain.

2. When I walk, I notice that on the left side of my jaw, I have this clicking noise. I have no idea what it is, but it drives me crazy.

3. My lips!!! They still bother me so much. They burn and hurt so badly. I use the hydrocortizone way more than the dermotologist recommended. It's the only thing that seems to help though.

So... wish me luck tomorrow and I'll keep you posted.

A surprise adjustment!!

2008-01-10T13:26:00.000-05:00

I brought my daughter to her Ortho. appt. yesterday and low and behold, he said he could do my adjustment too. I reminded him I had an appt. with the OS next Thursday. I told him I was hoping for a surgery date of sometime no later than May, earlier if possible. He actually seemed like that wasn't out of the question. So, I have two more appt.'s coming up soon. When he originally put my bottom braces on, he didn't band my last molars. He said they looked good and didn't want them banded while he moved everything else around. Well, he wants them on now. So on the 13th I'll go to have separators put in (oh, how I hate those things) and then on the 20th I'll have bands put on and then he said he wanted me to get some new molds made up. I really hope this means we're close.
In the beginning, when I had my first surgery, changes seemed to come quick. Now, I feel like it's always a hurry up and wait deal. I know good things will come in time, I just want to see something now. I'm so happy for the people that finally have their dates scheduled. A little jealous too I guess.

I just took some Advil, my head and jaw are aching today. It goes right along with my mood. The holidays kept me so busy, I didn't have time to think about the next step. Then, my sister and niece came to visit from Texas and North Carolina. My sister left yesterday. Now it's time for me to get busy with something else… I'd like it to be preparing for surgery.
Hopefully, I'll hear some really good news next Thursday.

What will the new year bring?

2007-12-31T09:28:00.000-05:00

My husband and I were talking yesterday about everything that has gone on this year. It seems like so much and so many changes. One of the best things is that I have met so many wonderful people. You guys are all so great.
Then, I realized the best thing of all… I won't have to say that my surgery will be next year anymore. Woo hoo! Things really are moving along! Come on 2008! We are ready for you!

Happy New Year everyone, be safe and enjoy!!!

Holiday

2007-12-24T07:49:00.000-05:00

I know everyone is so busy these days but, I wanted to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. I hope you are all enjoying your families or however you may be celebrating.
Take care everyone!!

Broken Bracket

2007-12-21T14:46:00.000-05:00

Well, I had to go back to the Ortho, sooner than I anticipated. I broke my first bracket. It's funny though. Wednesday night I did all of my teeth cleaning rituals before I went to bed and didn't notice anything but, when I woke up Thursday morning, the bracket was hanging on the wire. It was the last one back on my left side. Then when I went to brush my teeth Thursday morning, the little bugger fell right off into my mouth. So I bagged it and brought it with me on my trip. Then, they actually cleaned it and used the same one. I'm glad I thought to bring it with me… gold star for me!! I'm still not sure how it fell off though. Deb, the Tech, did tell me that it happens to the back ones a lot. I guess I'll have to try and be more careful.
Have a great weekend everyone.

Lastest update

2007-12-18T21:47:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I had my appt. My teeth are a little sore right now, the front two are burning a bit. Dr. Post repositioned a bracket on my #4 tooth. He put in an 016 Niti on bottom and an 016 stainless steel on top. I am so glad about the top one. He made some bends in it to help with the gap. He also put a power chain back on the front two teeth. I’d really like a full power chain across all of them because when he was closing the front gap it made other gaps on the sides.
Because my bottom teeth are pretty crowded, the tech., Candy asked if he had mentioned doing reproximation on them. Has anyone ever heard of this? I’m going to have to research that one. He has never mentioned it to me before.

You know what really bothers me lately, my smile. I hate to complain because my teeth are really looking so much better; I’m even getting compliments on them, braces and all. My smile though, just looks forced. It’s not an easy natural smile. I guess in time it will look better, I hope.
Funny story: my lips have been extremely chapped lately (go figure) and when they got done working on me this morning, my lips were actually swollen. So I went out to the receptionist to make my next appt. feeling a little embarrassed. She said Oh, you look great. I say, yeah swollen lips and all. Her reply, it makes you look voluptuous. Is that a good thing?

I forgot to tell you, I finally met the local woman that had the same surgery as me. It was so nice to see her progress in person.

Also, if Nat is still reading my blog, please let me know. I hope your doing well.

Still here...

2007-12-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

Still here, but not much happening. I go tomorrow morning at 8:30 for my next Ortho. appt. I am really hoping to go back into the stainless steel wires. I also hope he puts a bend in it so I can get rid of this gap once and for all.
I'm trying to decide on a color scheme. I really think the red and green have made my teeth look yellow. The blue made them look much more white. I'm thinking I'll probably go that route again.
I'm still on meds for the sinus infection , I hope this round really clears things up.

Cool news: My family and I went skiing for the first time ever on Saturday. It was so much fun. I am so sore, but I figure it was pretty good exercise. My youngest daughter picked up on it immediately and was flying down the mountain. This is something we definitely have to try again. We have gotten over 2 feet of snow in the last week, should make for a long winter.

I was really looking at my bite this weekend. In the beginning, my open bite was so bad, I could bite down and still fit a finger into my mouth. Now I can't. I love seeing progress.

I'll post a new pic tomorrow. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Buddy

2007-12-11T08:57:00.000-05:00

I figured with all of this cat talk lately, I should share a picture of our cat, Buddy with you. What a personality he has. Very high maintenance. He is really good when someone's not feeling well though. He laid with me for hours after my last surgery. I know the pictures don't even compare to Shontell's, I'll have to work on that one.

On another note, I have another call into the doctor. The sinus infection is back. I haven't even been off of the antibiotics very long. Unbelievable. I'm not sure if I mentioned it before but, I have already had sinus surgery too. I had it exactly 1 year before my SARPE. I thought it worked, I guess not. So, if I have this next surgery in June too, it will be three years straight of recuperating in June. Third times a charm they say, I hope so!

Holiday Bling

2007-12-07T07:31:00.000-05:00

So I went to the Ortho. with my daughter yesterday so I could get my holiday bling. What do you think? Looking at this picture, everything looks so out of whack!
When I first sat down, Heather looked to see when I was supposed to have my regular appt., for a split second, I think she was thinking I might be able to have my adjustment early but, that's all it lasted. She said yeah, still too soon. Oh well, I'll go back on the 18th and get the real work done then. It'll give me a chance to catch up and wish them all Happy Holidays.
Hope you all have a great weekend! I'm heading to the mall to go shopping, wish me luck!

Just wanted to share my girls with you. They bring such joy to my life!

Not much happening

2007-12-05T13:50:00.000-05:00

Still no changes, but I wanted to say hello to all of my blog buddies. Tomorrow my daughter has an Ortho. appt. so, I called to see if I could come in just to get my ligs changed. My daughter really wants me to do the red and green with her and my next appt. isn't until the 18th so tomorrow works out well. I'll take some new pics to show off my holiday spirit.
Have you all seen Brandy's bare smile? Absolutely amazing! She gives us all something to look forward to.

Feeling better

2007-11-28T09:01:00.000-05:00

Well, I am feeling much better, the antibiotics are definitely doing their job. Thanksgiving was good, busy and loud. I'm getting some much needed down time this week. I'm really glad I'm not hosting Christmas dinner. Phew!

As far as the teeth go, nothing, nadda, zilch! I've got nothing to share. It seems as though I have hit a plateau. December 18th, can't come fast enough. I desperately want the stainless steel wires back in so I can finally see some movement again. I feel like we're wasting time here. I was hoping for a lot more movement than this before my January appt. with the OS.
My daughter has an appt. on Dec. 6th, I thought about asking them if they would change my ligs too so I could go red and green with her.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T08:50:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish all of my friends a Happy Thanksgiving. Thanks for helping me get through some really tough times. You are the BEST!!!

Mmmm, I am so looking forward to dinner tomorrow!

Sinus Infection

2007-11-20T09:52:00.000-05:00

I had a doctor's appt. yesterday afternoon for a regular physical. It actually worked out pretty well though. I was feeling much worse by the time I got there. She said I definitely have a sinus infection. My first one post op. I started the antibiotics last night and I took more this morning and I'm actually feeling a little better right now. Not great, but better.
If I hadn't had that regular appt. scheduled, I'm sure I would have just tried to get through the holiday. I'm so glad it worked out for the better.
The teeth are still the same. Oh how I wish things could move along faster.

Owwwwww!

2007-11-19T13:24:00.000-05:00

Wow, my mouth was incredibly sore for a few days. The bottom braces have definitely been tougher to get used to. I bought this stuff called Orabase Soothe -N- Seal, it was pretty expensive. Well, don't waste your money. It puts a seal over any mouth sores that you have and then the seal get caught on the brackets and just pulls at the sores. Oh, it hurt so bad. Things are much better with my mouth today though. On another note, I have a horrible cold. I'm congested, my throat is sore and I just generally feel lousy. I have been trying to take extra Vitamin C and Airborne in hopes of getting rid of it before Thanksgiving. I am hosting this year, 15 people. I have a hundred things to do and no energy to get it done.

As far as the teeth go, nothing much is changing. I didn't suspect anything would. I am hoping at my next appt., I can go back into the stainless steel wires. That's when I get some movement! I can't wait for my lips to close without having to think about it. With the bottom braces now on, it just makes it that much worse.

RPE FREE

2007-11-13T19:09:00.001-05:00

Today was the BIG day. Everything went really well. The expander came out so easy, with very minor pain. I wouldn’t even really call it pain. Some of my teeth are still a little sensitive so, when he was using his little “plier” like appliance, I felt a little pressure/sensitivity. Nothing more. The real shock came when my tongue found the roof of my mouth. WOW!! It is so big in there. The sides of the roof of my mouth were a little sensitive the first few hours but now, it’s feeling good. Next, they placed the brackets on my bottom teeth which was the easy part. Then, they put in my TPA. I was dreading it. It’s funny because Heather put bands on my bottom teeth and two more on my top teeth after Dr. Post took out the expander and I guess she forgot that I was having a TPA put in because she had to take the top bands back off to weld the piece on that the TPA goes in. I tried telling her that maybe we should just forget about the TPA altogether but, she said we could until the “big cheese” found out. So, the TPA is in and it isn’t nearly as bad as the expander. I mean, I would much rather have nothing but, I guess I can do it. I was hoping I would be talking and swallowing normal again right away but, I definitely think it’s going to take me a few days. My tongue is a little confused right now. We just got done having dinner, swallowing food was so strange. It felt like it was going down way to easy. It didn’t have to go up and over or around an expander anymore. I already have a big sore in my mouth. I actually think my mouth is going to have a tougher time getting used to the bottom braces more than the top. Oh, I hope they toughen up quick.
The disappointing part of the day was, I had to go back to a nickel titanium wire instead of the stainless steel. That means, the triangle gap isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. I tried to tell him I was in a race with someone to see who’s closed first! He laughed , but didn’t budge. So I got an 014 NiTi on the bottom and an 018 Niti on the top. UGH!! Should I concede now?!?!
So… here are the newest pics. Heather says I look good in blue so, that’s what I went with. Next appt. is on December 18th. My daughter and I will be getting red and green together.
I’ll post again in the next day or two to let you all know how things are going.

Last Pics before RPE removal

2007-11-12T09:01:00.001-05:00

Finally, these are the last pics before my RPE removal tomorrow.
I also think that my pallet looks a little square.

The countdown....

2007-11-09T16:22:00.000-05:00

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am about my appointment on Tuesday. The spacers aren’t really bothering me anymore, just the tip of my tongue hurts from playing with the elastics so much.
It will be so weird to talk and eat again without this contraption being in my mouth. It feels so good to be hitting a milestone, so to speak. It's nice to know I have finished this little part of my long journey.
I'll try and post a couple of new pics so we can see the difference right before the RPE removal and then after. I'll bet the roof of my mouth will feel sooo big!

What a nice appointment

2007-11-07T09:51:00.000-05:00

What a nice appointment I had. It was just for the bottom spacers, but it ended up being a nice long visit. Heather, who I think is so pleasant, put my spacers in. In between, we got chit chatting about kids, husbands and life in general. Then we talked about my progress and she brought up my "before" pictures on the computer. It's nice to share the excitement with the people who really know what you have been through to get there. As much as they can anyways. It's not like all of us, who have actually lived it.
Then another one of the girls came over, the new one, I think her name is Candy. Anyways, she joined our conversation too. We ended by discussing my next appt. Heather says taking the RPE out is a lot of pressure, but no pain and that it usually comes out faster than it went in. She tells me it will feel really weird. She said that one little boy asked her if they could put it back in. He just got used to it I guess. Funny how our bodies just adjust. Even hearing that, I still can't wait to get it removed.
I also hope the bottom teeth move as quickly as the top ones have. I'm not sure if the top ones moved so quickly because of the surgery or if that's just how things happen. When I was younger and not as wise, I had a molar pulled and all of my bottom teeth have shifted filling in that gap. So, now they will have to be pulled quite a ways back to get my midlines to line up correctly.
My bottom teeth are a little sore today. I hate that feeling you get, like you have a big ol' piece of steak or something that you NEED to get out.
6 more days!!!!

Spacer Day, again!

2007-11-06T09:32:00.001-05:00

Today is spacer day! I dread the thought of getting them in, I find them irritating. On the other hand though, it's progress!
1 more week until my BIG appointment. I can't even imagine how it will feel to have this dreadful RPE removed. I can't wait.
Things have pretty much been the same for me lately. Sometimes I still feel that tingly feeling in my front teeth. The triangle gap is still there. I really have to take a picture to see if it's closing at all. I don't see any difference but my husband seems to think it has closed a tiny bit. The wires in the back are really poking me lately, I'm going to see if they can clip them today while I am there.
Also, my OS told me to make an appointment in January to see him, so I have scheduled this for January 17th. I hope by that time I will have made enough progress to tentatively set a date for my second surgery. I am hoping for May or early June.
I'll post again later after my appointment to let you know if anything significant happened.

What a great Halloween

2007-11-01T06:45:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful day it was for us. With temp's in the 60's, the kids really enjoyed their evening. My daughter and her friends set out to make their own costumes this year. After many ideas, they decided on being M&M's. My daughter is the red one.
I also had to share a picture of my nephew. His Mom beat leukemia a few years ago and was given a 5% chance of conceiving. He is our miracle baby.

My poor lips!!

2007-10-30T13:11:00.000-04:00

So, I couldn't take it anymore. I know I have mentioned my lips before but, this time I just couldn't stand it.
On Friday my lips felt so incredibly chapped and the burning was pretty intense. I can't for the life of me, figure out why.
I called my OS and spoke with Jaime. She tells me that they recommend taht I go to the health food store to pick up a salve with comfrey and calendula in it. She says this stuff is great for the lips.
So, after work on Friday, that was the first place I stopped. I plastered my lips with the stuff Friday night, all day Saturday and again Saturday night. It did nothing!
I talked to my Mom about it on Sunday. She works for my dermatologist so, first thing Monday morning she checked his schedule and he had a cancellation for Monday evening.

After telling him my history, he almost looked stumped as to why my lips would still be bothering me. He has recommended that I use Hydrocortisone ointment 4x a day for 4 days and then 2x a day for 2 days. He said stop all of the other chap sticks that I've been using and only use Vaseline in between the hydrocortisone. I woke up this morning and my lips weren't great but, they didn't burn as bad as they have been and they also didn't seem as swollen.
So, I'll see where this gets me. I really want them to be feeling better before my BIG appt. on the 13th.

Good News

2007-10-25T11:54:00.000-04:00

I brought my daughter to the Ortho yesterday afternoon. While she was getting her adjustment, I asked Dr. Post if he had any idea when I would be getting my bottom braces on. He actually came over to where I was sitting so he could take a look at my top teeth. I guess he felt like everything looked okay because, he said let's put them on when you come to your next visit on the 13th. WHOO HOO!!! PROGRESS!!
So, on the 13th I will be having my expander removed, my TPA placed and my bottom braces put on. It will be a 2 hour appt. I am sure that my mouth and jaw will be quite sore but, I always try to embrace the pain. It always means we're moving forward.

Oh, I also wanted to add that my daughter and I each got a slush puppie yesterday (an icy flavored drink). The cold actually bothered my gums and front teeth. I was so excited because things have been pretty numb still.

I feel like today is a good day. Things are headed in the right direction!

Thanks

2007-10-24T08:53:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to thank everyone out there. I appreciate all of your comments and I love being able to read all of your blogs. It is so nice knowing that I'm not alone through all of this. Some days get tough and sometimes just reading that someone else went through the same thing, makes me feel better.
It's funny, when I speak to my husband or family about what's going on. I'll be like, Shontell did this or Michelle had that happen or yeah, I read about it in Amy or Brandy's blog. It's like I know you all. Somehow, you all have become my friends, even though I've never met you. Maybe someday we will.
So, I just wanted you all to know what a difference you have made to me! Thank you!!

I also wanted to say to my local ortho/surgery buddy, thanks for the e-mails Kortne!!

The lastest pic

2007-10-22T19:53:00.000-04:00

To me, it doesn't look like much has changed. 21 more days until this dreaded expander comes out!!!! Not that I'm counting or anything!

I spoke to the other girl that I told you about earlier that had the same surgery and goes to my Ortho. She told me she has her bottom braces on. Now the Ortho. told me he didn't want mine on while I had the expander in. He said that would be too much all at once. What's up with that?? I say, bring em' on!

Crest Glide Threader Floss - the best thing since sliced bread!!

2007-10-22T14:07:00.000-04:00

Has anyone tried this yet?? I had to share. I tried this for the first time Saturday night. I can't believe how much it cut down on my flossing time. This stuff rocks!!

I think I need to relax!

2007-10-18T09:27:00.000-04:00

I never got a chance to upload my pic, I'll try really hard to do it tonight. My husband is a police officer and he's been on the night shift for the last 6 months, so I feel like a single parent most of the time.
This weekend is really big for the city I live in. Have you ever heard of the pumpkin festival? If you haven't, here'e the link http://www.pumpkinfestival.org/ The city attempts to break the record every year for the most jack-o-lanterns. Our biggest year has been 28,952. I think Boston has beaten us once and they are huge compared to us. It's actually really busy, it generally brings about 80,000 people to our small city of less than 25,000. It is a beautiful sight, everywhere you look in our downtown area, it's lit up with all different carved creations. So, this means I won't see much of my husband, again!

Anyways, back to the teeth. They were actually really sore yesterday but things seem to be pretty good this morning. It seems like right after I have an adjustment, I always have to use wax again. The insides of the back of my cheeks were all torn up again. I haven't really noticed the top of my front teeth closing at all but, I think I should take that picture to really do some comparing. The bottoms have actually separated just a tiny bit. He wrapped that wire around my two front teeth this time but it definitely doesn't do the same job as the good ole power chain does.

So, a comment he made to the new girl has been weighing on me pretty heavily. I had asked him if the braces would be pushing my teeth back at all because I feel like I have to really work at closing my lips. His response was, no. That there really wasn't any room to move them back and that's where the surgery would come in to play. Then the new girl asked what I would be having, and he told her and then added, and a possible advancement. An advancement would mean my lower jaw too! When I signed up for this journey, we ONLY discussed the upper jaw. When he showed me his measurements that he drew up on the x-rays before I had the SARPE, it was only the upper jaw that was discussed.
Then last night, I was reading Amy's whole blog and she mentions that her O.S. says that the upper jaw can't be moved back, that it's the lower jaw that has to be moved forward. So now I am incredibly confused and feeling a little anxious about not knowing what will be happening in my future. Has anyone ever heard of an upper jaw being moved back?? This is what my OS put on the Ins. Paperwork: LeFort I Osteotomy to shorten my posterior maxilla.
Okay, I think I need to breath and give it some more time, then maybe after the holidays, we can see where things stand.
Thanks for listening!!!

Lastest update

2007-10-16T20:49:00.000-04:00

My appt. today was okay. A little good news and a little bad. The office was quite busy so, I was a little worried I wouldn’t get the time I so desperately felt that I needed. I met the new girl today (I can’t remember her name, sorry). She has only been there for 3 weeks. I was worried because she wouldn’t know everything I have been through but, she was actually really good. I wonder if she sensed my apprehension because she explained to me that she had worked with an orthodontist for 10 years prior to coming here.
So after I chatted with her for a little bit and she removed my old wire, Dr. Post came over. He is so good. He knows I have been very interested in everything he is doing, so today he gave me a mirror so I could watch what he was doing while he explained it. He put in a 018 stainless steel wire today. He made a few bends in it to help close that triangle gap in between my upper front teeth. He actually had me feel the difference between the nickel titanium wire and the stainless steel. The first one you could bend or wiggle around but it always went back to its original form. The stainless steel stays right where he bends it. So he said from here on out, that’s what I will be having.
Then we discussed the Expander. The good news of the day is that we can remove it at my next appt. Now for the bad news… I have to have a TPA put in its place. UGH!!!! He tells me this won’t be a big deal but, I really don’t want anything. I know he is just being careful; it just doesn’t make any sense to me why all of the other people that I chat with don’t have to have one. The girl that was helping him said that the TPA will help so there won’t be any chance of collapse. I guess the saying goes, better safe than sorry.
I actually asked for orange ligs today, I thought orange would be a good color for this time of year, but the new girl said there weren’t any orange power chains to match so burgundy was my second choice. Then he didn’t even put a power chain on just a wire twisting the two front teeth together. It actually looks a little funny because she could only fit a lig on one front tooth because of that wire. So I have the burgundy color on every tooth except for one front one. Maybe I’ll tell people it’s for Halloween.
My teeth are a little achy right now but, that usually means good things! So it’s the waiting game once again. I’ll post my newest picture tomorrow.

Lastest pic

2007-10-15T19:22:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to give an updated pic before my next appt. Not sure what he will do tomorrow. Sometimes I feel like I build myself up for these appt's and there's no way the appt. could live up to what I want.

I'm still hoping for an expected removal date for my expander... I'll post again tomorrow night to let you all know what happens. Until then.

Jaw pain...

2007-10-11T12:18:00.001-04:00

I've noticed lately that my jaw is really bothering me. I have always had some trouble but, the last few weeks has been a little worse. My muscles are extremely tight and I find myself waking up with a headache lately. I don't have a good bite right now and I wonder if it's my jaw trying to find a comfortable place to sit.
I've also noticed and haven't mentioned before but, even since my surgery, I clench my teeth/jaw from time to time without even meaning to. It happened a lot more right after surgery. But now, I'll be eating or talking to someone and all of a sudden without notice, I'll clench. Sometimes I even bite my cheeks or tongue when it happens. I think it has to be a muscle thing going on. Has anyone ever experienced this?
Prior to my surgery, I was treated for a number of sinus infections. I was on antibiotics and steroids all the time. Now, I haven't had one for a while but, when I did get one I was always very congested and couldn't breath through my nose at all. Lately, I've had an incredible amount of pressure around my eyes, forehead and temples. When I bend over, the pressure is horrible. I'm breathing through my nose pretty well though. So now, I'm wondering if it's a sinus infection but not the one's I am used to getting. I just don't know… maybe I'll give it a few more days before I call the doctor.

There's a girl that goes to my Ortho's office that had the same surgery as me about a month earlier. I have never met her but, I did get her number and I have called her on a few occasions just to see how she is doing. She actually e-mailed me on Friday and said that she had her expander removed and a TPA put in it's place. Hmmm. Now I'm wondering what my Ortho has in store for me. I actually mentioned the TPA to him at my last appt. just to see if he would consider it so I could get this expander out sooner. His reply was that he occasionally uses them. Then he went on to say I could have my expander removed in early November. I hope I don't have to have a TPA put in at this stage of the game.
I guess I'll just sit tight and wait patiently for my appt. on Tuesday. Then the answers will come… I hope!!

Ho Hum

2007-10-04T13:04:00.000-04:00

Things are still about the same... Yesterday I did notice some tingling in the area of my 4 front teeth again. I haven't felt this for a little while or at least I haven't noticed it but, it was definitely there yesterday. It made me feel better, because I at least feel like something is happening. Healing hopefully.
I also noticed a new sore on the inside of my right cheek. It's in a place that hasn't bothered me before which, led me to believe things must be shifting around in there.
I had a weird dream the other night that the Ortho. took my expander out and my teeth
wiggled and then moved all out of place again. I guess as much as I want this thing out, it has brought some stability to me through this process.
I have been wondering lately how the Ortho will remove my expander. It seems like some of you have just had the wires cut and the bands stay on and others have had their bands removed. I'll have to ask him about this on the 16th so I can prepare myself for what lies ahead. I guess I don't really care either way, I would like the bands removed but, getting this thing out is all that matters. I can't wait to be able to eat Thanksgiving dinner without it. Mmmm!
So, I still have the triangle gap in my front teeth. I actually see the potential for the bottom of my front teeth to start overlapping. They were pretty even but, I see that one is a little more out than the other one. Does that make sense? The power chain is pulling them together but the bottom is as together as they can be without starting to crowd.
I guess he'll address this on the 16th too.
Today is Friday for me, I took tomorrow off and I have off Monday too. A nice long weekend ahead. Now if I can just relax and stop thinking about what's ahead!

Still patiently waiting

2007-10-01T15:12:00.000-04:00

I've been fighting off a cold for the last few days, finally I'm feeling a bit better. I figured I would give a more detailed update today.
Since my SARPE, I feel that my gums are a little numb still. The most noticeable spots are around my 4 front teeth. A little bit above my front teeth on the outside but, mostly on the inside behind my front teeth. My right lateral incisor is still quite sensitive too. I very rarely chew on my right side (which I didn't prior to surgery either) but, when I try to, that tooth feels very very sensitive. Something has to be happening with the nerves in that area.
I still don't really bite into anything with my front teeth. I did try a few soft things just to test them out but, they are still quite sensitive and not as stable as I would like them to be.
I know things take time and I'm still only 4 months post op. I'm just anxious for things to start feeling 100%.
I think my biggest concern right now is my open bite. It seems to have gotten so much bigger since surgery. I didn't even realize how bad it had gotten until I compared the pictures. I'm hoping a stronger wire is going to help with it. I see the Ortho on the 16th and he told me at my last visit that he would be putting in a stainless steel wire this time. Has anyone had any open bite issues?
I hope that one day I won't have to cut everything up and eat it with a fork and knife. I went apple picking this weekend and it was so horrible not being able to take a bite out of a freshly picked apple. Maybe next year!!
I'm trying to look on the bright side this week. Although, I don't have a date to have my expander removed, he did say the beginning of November. I was thinking, even if I got an appt. to go back 4 weeks after my appt. on the 16th, that would only be 6 more weeks to deal with it. I can handle that (I think). So, I'm shooting to have it out on November 13th or sooner. Keep your fingers and toes crossed for me!!!

New Pics!!!

2007-09-27T18:55:00.000-04:00

Well, I haven't posted since last week, my daughter plays soccer and it seems as though I haven't had an extra minute for myself. I know, I know poor excuse. I told myelf I would be better about this and I will try a little harder from now on.
I've been a little down lately. I feel like nothing more is changing and I can't wait to have this stupid expander out!
I know I mentioned this before but, my lips are still really hurting me. They always burn and feel incredibly chapped. It seems like it doesn't matter how much chapstick I put on them, they still hurt. When I was at the Ortho's office the other day, Heather told me it was probably due to the fact that I am a mouth breather. I'm sure this is part of it because I know for a fact when I wake up my lips and mouth are dryer than the sahara.
Okay, I received my pics from the Ortho's office sooner than I expected so, I'm going to post a few before and after's. I am just learning this whole blogging thing but, I'm hoping to have all of my pics posted to a link soon. Maybe some of my other Ortho. buddies will help me with this task. Shontell???
I also wanted to tell Shontell CONGRATS on having your expander removed!!! It must feel sooo good!!! I can't wait!!!

Gotta love the wire!

2007-09-20T13:55:00.000-04:00

Boy were my teeth killing me. I couldn't wait for her to put that wire back on. My husband was really surprised. He was saying how he thought it would feel good not having it on. Just the opposite! It made me wonder what it would feel like when after everything I need done is completed, will it hurt like that when my braces are removed. Hmm. I guess I can relax... don't need to worry about that one for a while!
So my gap has closed except for the triangle like hole up by my gumline. I know it's better than the gap but, I'm not fancying this much either. Sometimes spit bubbles or whatever I am drinking tries to shoot out of it. Gross!!! I asked about it when I went to the Ortho's office. She told me it would probably stay that way until he puts in a square wire. Anyone know when that comes?? I was hoping the stainless steel one would do the trick.
I also think that my open bite has gotten worse. I'm almost 4 months post op. from my SARPE, did anyone else have trouble biting and using their front teeth at this stage of the game. They still seem so sensitive and unstable. Maybe I should stop being such a worrywart and just bite!
I'll have to post a few new pics so you can see my triangle.

For now, I'll just go back to counting the days till my next appt. 26 and counting.....

Nice and Clean

2007-09-17T19:26:00.000-04:00

Today, I went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned. Part of me was a little nervous because things are still a little sensitive but, the other part of me couldn't wait to have a good cleaning. So, off I went to the Ortho's office to have my wire and power chain removed. My Ortho's office was actually closed today because he is opening another office. One of the girls stayed on to do a few things at my office so it was going to work out well for me today... or so I thought. After I got there, she told me she was having childcare issues and wouldn't be able to put my wire back in today. UGH!!!! So I have to go back tomorrow morning at 7:15. My teeth are already screaming they want the wire back on!!!! It really hurts without it, more than I thought it would.
The cleaning went well. It was a new girl, very quiet. I think I made her a little nervous. She kept asking if I was okay. She asked if it was okay for me to open up my mouth for that long. I guess the best part of the day though was that she said I was doing a good job.

While I was at the Orthos office today, I asked if I could have a copy of my before pictures. She said she would have them ready for me at my next appt. on Oct. 16, so I'll make sure to post those then.

Does anyone have any trouble with sore lips. My lips feel like they are always incredibly chapped and burning. I asked at my appt. today and she said it is probably because I am a mouth breather and my lips get very dry. I do use alot of chapstick but it doesn't seem to be helping much. Any ideas???

My husband and a group of our friends that I don't see often went to go see the Patriots game last night. We tailgated beforehand and I barely ate anything. I just feel like I must look quite ridiculous when I eat. This expander takes any enjoyment out of eating and I also feel like since my surgery, that chewing is just weird. It's hard for me to explain but, it's just not right.
I always put my hand in front of my mouth when I chew too.

Okay, Okay, enough whining for now. I hope my Ortho. buddies are all doing well.

Duh!!!!

2007-09-12T12:01:00.000-04:00

I forgot to tell you... Next appointment is October 16th!!

Owwww!!!

2007-09-12T11:43:00.001-04:00

I woke up this morning with a headache and my front teeth were quite sore. I forgot to mention yesterday that they also tied one of my right molars (number 4) somehow so that it gets pushed up into the gum a little. Not sure exactly how they do this but, it aches!
I'm tired so, I know it wasn't a good nights sleep.

I think I need some ibuprofen!

Ortho. update

2007-09-11T21:20:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I really enjoyed my appointment today. I felt like I really got some questions answered that have been weighing on me.
I first wanted to start off though by telling you who my Oral Surgeon and my Orthodontist are. I haven’t done this yet and I feel it is important to tell you who the people are that are making such an impact on my life. My O.S. is Dr. Weldon, he is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. My Ortho. is Dr. Post, he has made me feel like I am his only patient. He continues to make me feel very special and he truly makes me feel like we are on this journey together and that he also truly cares about the outcome as much as I do.
Okay, on to my treatment.
My first question to Dr. Post today was, "Why wasn't my expander tied off?" He told me that years ago he used to do that, but hasn't in quite a while. He feels it's definitely not necessary and has never had a problem with not tying them off.
Next, I asked about getting my bottom braces on. He told me he wanted to wait while he focused on my top teeth. He tells me we have a lot of work to do up there first. This was a little disappointing because I feel like we’re wasting time but, I have faith in his decisions.
I then asked the biggest question of the day… When will my expander come out??? He started to say late November, early December. I told him I was really hoping to have it out right before Thanksgiving, which would be 6 LONG months. He thought for a moment calculating the time and then said… Let’s take it out early November! He said he just wants to make sure that my bone has had enough time to heal before he removes it.
Woo Hoo!!!! I finally have a timeframe to look forward to.
So today, I had an 018 Nickel Titanium wire put on and a power chain that goes across my 4 front teeth. (numbers 7 – 10) I’m a little sore right now. My small power chain that I had on last time didn’t really bother me much, I think because things were still a little numb from my surgery. So, although it means I have some discomfort, it does mean that things are healing. He tells me next time I will get a stainless steel wire and that will start to really move things together.

My countdown begins…

A couple of new pics

2007-09-10T20:29:00.000-04:00

Just thought I would post a couple of my newest pics. My Ortho. appt. is tomorrow, I can't wait!! I'll post after the appt. to let you know how it went.

2007-09-05T15:18:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted in a few days because things have pretty much stayed the same. The only thing I have noticed is that while the powerchain has certainly helped with the gap between my two front teeth, it seems to be making gaps elsewhere. Funny how I always seem to have something that bothers me. I guess I just need to be more patient.
My next appt. is coming up on Tuesday the 11th. I have a few questions for him. First, I want to ask him about why my expander was never tied off. It seems as though everyone I have spoken to has had their expander tied off after expansion was completed. I'm a little worried and I am hoping that everything has stayed put. I think it has but... I still better ask. Secondly, I just want to confirm with him that my expander will be coming out within a 2 1/2 month timeframe. I know he originally told me 6 months and it's only been 3 1/2, I'm just getting anxious. I want this thing out so bad. I hate the way I speak with it and eating since this thing has been in has been honestly, very unenjoyable! My tongue is almost always sore.
On a good note though, I really am still amazed at how fast my teeth have all been moving. I try sometimes to visualize what they will look like. Anything has to be better than the crooked mess they were.
I still wish my next surgery was coming up sooner. I am hoping for spring instead of next summer. I want to mention this to my Ortho. too. I wonder if his other adult patients are as anxious as me?? My youngest daughter has braces and I never hear her looking forward to her next appt. like I do.
I'll post with a new pic soon.

2007-08-29T14:25:00.000-04:00

Okay... this is the gap, the top one is right after expansion was done. The bottom one is from last Sunday.

Weird tingly feeling

2007-08-29T13:51:00.000-04:00

After I had the powerchain put on, I noticed a lot of movement immediately. If I didn't take a new picture every Sunday, I would have thought nothing more was happening but, it actually has moved a little more. Not much though.

Now I'm thinking though, something must be happening because my two front teeth are really tingling. It almost feels like when you hit your finger and you can feel it pulsing. Strange, but hopefully it means things are still moving!

I am going to try and post a couple of pictures. One right after expansion and one from last week.

I can't believe how much all of my teeth have moved.

POWERCHAIN

2007-08-14T18:17:00.000-04:00

I wasn't even sure exactly what this was but, I knew I wanted one if it helped with this enormous gap. On August 14th, my Ortho put a small powerchain (it looks like 2 elastics (ligs) connected like this) 0-0 on my two front teeth.
I took some ibuprofen right after leaving and then again before bed. I honestly didn't have much pain at all. It was amazing though. It actually moved my teeth within hours. Don't get me wrong, I still have the gap but, it's not nearly as big.

My next appointment is on September 11th and I will start posting with alot more detail then. I have just started this blog and really regret not doing it from the beginning.

Getting wired

2007-07-11T18:14:00.000-04:00

On July 11th, my Ortho wired my upper teeth. I chose pink ligs, I thought that would be fun. Things went pretty smooth and I remember thinking, this isn't so bad.
Well, I woke up in the morning and my mouth was completely raw. I didn't think I needed wax.
I recommend salt water rinses, and LOTS of wax. At least until your mouth get's toughened up.

Cranking the RPE

2007-06-08T18:09:00.000-04:00

On June 8th I (well my husband) started cranking my RPE twice a day. Once in the morning and once at night. Aside from pressure, it wasn't painful.
I stopped expanding on June 20th. My gap was HUGE! Or at least I thought so.

Healing after surgery

2007-06-07T17:55:00.000-04:00

The first few days were pretty tough. My lips were so swollen I thought they would burst. As the days went by though, things got increasingly better. I tried very hard to eat and drink as much as I could. I lost about 11 pounds in total.

By the end of the following week, aside from being tired, I was feeling pretty good.

Surgery Day!!

2007-06-01T17:36:00.000-04:00

So I went in for my surgery on June 1st. I had to be at the hospital at 6:30am. I was so happy about that. I didn't want to sit around and wait.

The staff was wonderful and I really like my surgeon.
My OS told me the surgery went well. The only complication I had was the OS had troble keeping my jaw in place after the surgery so he ended up having to wire it.

I was home by 1:00pm that same afternoon.

The Dreaded RPE

2007-05-24T17:29:00.000-04:00

On May 24, 2007 I had the dreaded RPE (rapid pallet expander) cemented in. It was horrible. I left feeling so panicked. I felt like I couldn't even swallow without gagging. I couldn't even imagine eating with this thing.

The beginning of my Journey

2006-12-01T17:28:00.000-05:00

Way back in late 2006, I went to see my kids orthodontist. I had been told years before to fix my bite I would need surgery but, I guess I was hoping he might say something different today. Well... he didn't. He referred me to an oral surgeon. My youngest daughter has seen this same OS in the past to have some teeth pulled before braces. So, off I went.

I saw him in December. He confirmed that the Ortho was indeed correct and after going over all of the x-rays and molds that the Ortho sent over he told me I would need two surgeries. One was called SARPE (surgically assisted rapid pallet expansion) and the other is a LeFort I Osteotomy to shorten my posterior maxilla. I left a little overwhelmed but, I told him to submit it to the Ins. Co. to see what they would say. That was untimately my deciding factor.

After several months, and a few screw ups with things being submitted to the wrong Ins. Co., I got an approval in April 2007.

I was so nervous but, I figured if I thought to much about it, I would chicken out. So I immediately scheduled the appointments to have the spacers, bands, and the the dreaded RPE cemented in.

My surgery was scheduled for June 1, 2007!!!