In the long, sad slog that has been my “adult braces experience,” today marks a turning point: It’s the last day I am required to wear my retainers full-time. My glee is tempered by the knowledge that I am not free to burn or flush said retainers — instead I’ve been advised to wear them nightly for the rest of my life.
I refuse to think about that right this minute. Instead, I am concentrating on how great it’s going to be to cruise through the days with no metal in my mouth — something I haven’t done since July 27, 2010, not that anyone’s keeping track. No more awkward removal of top and bottom appliances just to accept a fellow cyclist’s offer of an energy gel. No more constant refusal of snacks (which just aren’t worth the dental annoyance). No more incessant exploration of the alien metal in my mouth with a constantly worried tongue.
Come to think of it, I bet my number of migraines drops once I get to remove this perpetual source of irritation from my daylight hours.
In preparation for tomorrow’s unveiling, I have been practicing with the whole naked teeth idea for a few hours at a time. I went snorkeling this week, and opted to avoid having snorkel mouthpiece meet dental apparatus. And a couple of parties have seen me sans retainers as well.
I also chose not to wear them to my first gym workout since, um … December. I thought it would be hard enough getting back into the swing of weight lifting without that annoyance.
As to the reason for my long absence from the gym, let me hasten to explain. Strictly speaking, it was not my fault. (So few things are, I’ve discovered.)
My trainer, you see, opted to pursue different opportunities. (How dare he, right?) Anyway, his decision, coupled with a severe lack of funds on my part, led an extended couch potato session. It’s hard to see how I could have done anything differently in that situation.
In summary, June will see me back at the gym on a regular basis sporting a metal-less mouth that will undoubtedly be more inclined toward smiling. I’m betting the changes will ensure a great summer, one in which I finish the book.
Count on it!
Tags: adult braces, braces, orthodontics, retainers
A Certain Age 
May 31, 2012 at 3:49 pm |
Bravo on all counts!
June 1, 2012 at 8:12 pm |
I can attest to your metal mettle. It’s been a long slog.
All of your friends will be glad to have you freed from your restraints. (What are you going to complain about now that the braces are gone?)
June 2, 2012 at 8:33 am |
Thank you for asking the important questions, Ken! (And for stoically enduring much whining.) I look forward to trying out new topics to complain about on our next ride!!
June 2, 2012 at 5:58 am |
Hurray!