Hi Everyone
Its been a while since my last post, I have had lots going on and its been pretty quite on the braces front. But I am so excited that I will be getting my expander taken out and braces on tomorrow. I cannot be happier as it is earlier than I expected. I was hoping before Christmas as he said 6 to 9 months and its been 7 months now so all is travelling well.
My bite has definitely changed and has come closer together, I have a few more teeth touching. My ortho said the braces will bring it in so much more which I am excited about. This is my 3rd set of braces so im not really bothered about getting them, just happy I get rid of this horrid expander.
I do find these anchorages plates annoying though and they sometimes get quite sore. I think it makes it worse that I sleep on my side with my hand on my face, probably squashing them against my cheek all night. They have been infected a couple of times too.
But in other exciting news and one of the reasons I have been pre occupied is because IM PREGNANT! I am 22 weeks pregnant and very very excited to be having my first baby :) They say being pregnant makes your teeth move a lot faster and I think it has definitely helped. One of the ortho's I saw for a consultation actually told me that having an expander in my mouth would help with fertility and that I would fall pregnant straight away - well she was spot on - first month. Apparently there is a fertility trigger point in the roof of your mouth. So if it really did contribute then it has been worth the 7 months of annoyance :)
Anyway, I hope everyone's treatment is going well. I will post a photo of my new bite soon.......
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Still no braces
Hi Everyone
Well I still dont have braces on my top teeth and it looks like it will be at least another 6 weeks or so before that happens. Im currently in the middle of root canal treatment on my front tooth. I had my first session on Thursday and had another set back because my dentist said my root seems very short and wide. Apparently the top of your tooth root should be narrow and pointy. I need to get xrays to determine what my root looks like because he said its very unusal. One reason he thinks it MIGHT be like that is from surgery. He said its possible the tip of my root could have been cut off during the operation. But I guess ill find out soon enough what is really going on....
I have to wait a little while before I can get xrays as I have so much going on with work and personal life, I cant keep taking time off work for more dentist appointments. I feel like I am at a dentist appointment every week between my general dentist and ortho.
On another note though my bite seems to be improving ever so slowly. The elastics on the plates seem to be working, but its a very slow process.
One thing I have noticed which I don't remember when I had braces before is, that I will get a random tooth that will be sore for about a week then it will stop! Each time its a different tooth, but I just find it weird. Why is just one tooth sore and why for only a few days.... strange.....
Well I still dont have braces on my top teeth and it looks like it will be at least another 6 weeks or so before that happens. Im currently in the middle of root canal treatment on my front tooth. I had my first session on Thursday and had another set back because my dentist said my root seems very short and wide. Apparently the top of your tooth root should be narrow and pointy. I need to get xrays to determine what my root looks like because he said its very unusal. One reason he thinks it MIGHT be like that is from surgery. He said its possible the tip of my root could have been cut off during the operation. But I guess ill find out soon enough what is really going on....
I have to wait a little while before I can get xrays as I have so much going on with work and personal life, I cant keep taking time off work for more dentist appointments. I feel like I am at a dentist appointment every week between my general dentist and ortho.
On another note though my bite seems to be improving ever so slowly. The elastics on the plates seem to be working, but its a very slow process.
One thing I have noticed which I don't remember when I had braces before is, that I will get a random tooth that will be sore for about a week then it will stop! Each time its a different tooth, but I just find it weird. Why is just one tooth sore and why for only a few days.... strange.....
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Bad news :(
Well I was suppose to get braces on the top teeth last Thursday but I showed my ortho that my very front right tooth seemed to look a little grey in colour. Its definitely darker than the other front tooth. My worst fears were realised when he told me it looks like my nerve/tooth has died and that I would need root canal :(
I was not happy and a little upset and I will be seeing my normal dentist this Thursday. The ortho said he can't put my braces on until its been fixed.
I asked what has caused it and it could be a number of things, basically its died because ive had trauma to it. He kept asking me if I had knocked that tooth, or was hit in the face etc etc but I can't remember anything like that happening.
I think it could be from a few things:
1. My operation
2. My teeth moving so quickly closing the gap
3. My night splint I use to wear, it went on my front two teeth and I use to bite/snap my teeth together during my sleep ( I use to wake myself doing it) A bit like a crocdile snapping its jaw together
In the end the appointment wasnt completely wasted as he put brackets on my back teeth (which I now have huge ulcers from) and he put elastics on the bottom plates. So I now have all 4 plates being used. My teeth were so sore after he put the elastics on, I was back to soft foods for a few days. It is working as well, my open bite is definitely coming together.
Anyway I will update you all after I see the dentist on Thursday, fingers crossed its not going to cost me too much to get fixed as I heard root canals can cost a fortune!!!
I was not happy and a little upset and I will be seeing my normal dentist this Thursday. The ortho said he can't put my braces on until its been fixed.
I asked what has caused it and it could be a number of things, basically its died because ive had trauma to it. He kept asking me if I had knocked that tooth, or was hit in the face etc etc but I can't remember anything like that happening.
I think it could be from a few things:
1. My operation
2. My teeth moving so quickly closing the gap
3. My night splint I use to wear, it went on my front two teeth and I use to bite/snap my teeth together during my sleep ( I use to wake myself doing it) A bit like a crocdile snapping its jaw together
In the end the appointment wasnt completely wasted as he put brackets on my back teeth (which I now have huge ulcers from) and he put elastics on the bottom plates. So I now have all 4 plates being used. My teeth were so sore after he put the elastics on, I was back to soft foods for a few days. It is working as well, my open bite is definitely coming together.
Anyway I will update you all after I see the dentist on Thursday, fingers crossed its not going to cost me too much to get fixed as I heard root canals can cost a fortune!!!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
My first infection
Hey Everyone
I am back from Hawaii and had a fantastic time. But unfortunately what I brought back with me was an infection in my bottom right anchorage plate :( I noticed it on the last couple of days in Waikiki but I was prepared and had some Savacol anticeptic mouth wash with me which seemed to have helped. But a few days after I returned it flared up again. I am now on anti biotics and it doesnt seem to be helping just yet. Fingers crossed in the next few days it gets better. It isnt really that sore, its just very gross - too much info alert - I have some puss coming from it when I push on the site with a toothbrush.
I just hope it clears up and doesn't keep recurring. I have a feeling it will though, one of the main down sides of this treatment.....
Also my gap has pretty much GONE and I dont even have braces yet. My teeth have moved so much over the past couple of weeks and my top jaw has come down. I use to be able to put my pinky finger in between my top and bottom jaw but i cant now. I will post some photos soon of my progress.
I have also noticed I am starting to look different and people have commented on how my face has changed. I saw a recent photo of myself and noticed how much wider my smile was - I really like it :)
I am back from Hawaii and had a fantastic time. But unfortunately what I brought back with me was an infection in my bottom right anchorage plate :( I noticed it on the last couple of days in Waikiki but I was prepared and had some Savacol anticeptic mouth wash with me which seemed to have helped. But a few days after I returned it flared up again. I am now on anti biotics and it doesnt seem to be helping just yet. Fingers crossed in the next few days it gets better. It isnt really that sore, its just very gross - too much info alert - I have some puss coming from it when I push on the site with a toothbrush.
I just hope it clears up and doesn't keep recurring. I have a feeling it will though, one of the main down sides of this treatment.....
Also my gap has pretty much GONE and I dont even have braces yet. My teeth have moved so much over the past couple of weeks and my top jaw has come down. I use to be able to put my pinky finger in between my top and bottom jaw but i cant now. I will post some photos soon of my progress.
I have also noticed I am starting to look different and people have commented on how my face has changed. I saw a recent photo of myself and noticed how much wider my smile was - I really like it :)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Date for my upper braces
Hi Everyone
I had another ortho appointment today (story of my life at the moment) and we have booked in my upper braces for 30th June YAY. I am excited because this gap will finally close.
Everything else is going well, he just changed the elastics on my implants. I did notice though that he tied one of them differently this time.
Anyway, I will be a bit quiet on the blog for the next few weeks as im off to Hawaii on Thursday and cannot wait!
Aloha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had another ortho appointment today (story of my life at the moment) and we have booked in my upper braces for 30th June YAY. I am excited because this gap will finally close.
Everything else is going well, he just changed the elastics on my implants. I did notice though that he tied one of them differently this time.
Anyway, I will be a bit quiet on the blog for the next few weeks as im off to Hawaii on Thursday and cannot wait!
Aloha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
8 week update with photos
Hey everyone
Its been 8 weeks now since my surgery and 3 weeks since the ortho put elastics on my implants.
I took some photos last night and I realised I am actually still swollen. Some mornings I wake up and feel a little swollen but you will see in the photos below my cheeks are still puffy.
I also can eat pretty much anything now as long as I have a knife and fork (which I have mentioned before). Last week was the first time I had a steak, I was quite excited!! It stills takes me ages to eat and I still can't eat anything really hard like crackers/biscuits (even McDonalds fries is sometimes too hard).
My implants and the elastics really do not bother me at all, it doesnt hurt. I do think my jaw has moved down a little bit, but Ill see what the ortho says tomorrow.
I really want to get my braces on the top soon to start closing the gap. Over the past two weeks my gap has started to close, but closing tilted, not straight. So they are starting to look quite 'buck' now.
I think I will throw a party the day my expander comes out :), its really annoying some days. I just want to be able to talk properly again. I should have this out by Christmas.
Its been 8 weeks now since my surgery and 3 weeks since the ortho put elastics on my implants.
I took some photos last night and I realised I am actually still swollen. Some mornings I wake up and feel a little swollen but you will see in the photos below my cheeks are still puffy.
I also can eat pretty much anything now as long as I have a knife and fork (which I have mentioned before). Last week was the first time I had a steak, I was quite excited!! It stills takes me ages to eat and I still can't eat anything really hard like crackers/biscuits (even McDonalds fries is sometimes too hard).
My implants and the elastics really do not bother me at all, it doesnt hurt. I do think my jaw has moved down a little bit, but Ill see what the ortho says tomorrow.
I really want to get my braces on the top soon to start closing the gap. Over the past two weeks my gap has started to close, but closing tilted, not straight. So they are starting to look quite 'buck' now.
I think I will throw a party the day my expander comes out :), its really annoying some days. I just want to be able to talk properly again. I should have this out by Christmas.
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| My gap last night |
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| Puffy cheeks still |
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| Here are some photos of how the implants work. You can see the elastic tied to the implant and then my bracket. Sorry for the gross mouth shots, you can see everything because its zoomed in!!! |
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| I like this photo because you can see the scars in my mouth from surgery. Notice how it looks lumpy up the top, this is from where I was stitched. |
Monday, May 16, 2011
not much happening
Hey guys
It's been just over 7 weeks now and nothing new to report. Still have the elastics on the implants but I can't really tell if they are working or not. The ortho said I would notice my teeth coming together soon but if its happening I havent really noticed. I go back in a week so I will update then.
On another exciting note IM OFF TO HAWAII in 10 days!!! I am so excited, its cold in Sydney at the moment so im looking forward to getting a tan and relaxing for 12 days - oh and how could I forget the best part SHOPPING!
It's been just over 7 weeks now and nothing new to report. Still have the elastics on the implants but I can't really tell if they are working or not. The ortho said I would notice my teeth coming together soon but if its happening I havent really noticed. I go back in a week so I will update then.
On another exciting note IM OFF TO HAWAII in 10 days!!! I am so excited, its cold in Sydney at the moment so im looking forward to getting a tan and relaxing for 12 days - oh and how could I forget the best part SHOPPING!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Ouch! Anchorage plates working & no more turning!!!
Hey Everyone
I went to the ortho today and I am now feeling quite sore :( He changed the wire on my bttom braces to a very thick wire (im not sure why, I didnt ask). It actually hurt while he was putting it on and a few hours later it started killing me - thank god for pain meds.
He also starting using the top anchorage plates. He had to shorten the plates first by cutting them, then he tied an elastic from the bracket on my back tooth to the plate. So if you are picturing an elastic band its not like that, it was a long thin piece of rubber that he just tied on, like a piece of string. He only did this on my top jaw, he hasnt touched the bottom ones yet. It's not hurting that much at the moment but I have a feeling as the night goes on it may get worse......
But the good news is I don't have to keep turning anymore YAY. And my gap didnt get any bigger than 5mm. I always pictured a huge 1cm gap but mine never got that big. It is still a little embarrassing but not as bad as I thought which is a bonus.
I went to the ortho today and I am now feeling quite sore :( He changed the wire on my bttom braces to a very thick wire (im not sure why, I didnt ask). It actually hurt while he was putting it on and a few hours later it started killing me - thank god for pain meds.
He also starting using the top anchorage plates. He had to shorten the plates first by cutting them, then he tied an elastic from the bracket on my back tooth to the plate. So if you are picturing an elastic band its not like that, it was a long thin piece of rubber that he just tied on, like a piece of string. He only did this on my top jaw, he hasnt touched the bottom ones yet. It's not hurting that much at the moment but I have a feeling as the night goes on it may get worse......
But the good news is I don't have to keep turning anymore YAY. And my gap didnt get any bigger than 5mm. I always pictured a huge 1cm gap but mine never got that big. It is still a little embarrassing but not as bad as I thought which is a bonus.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Photo of my titanium anchorage plates
Here is a photo of one of the 4 titanium plates that were inserted during surgery. I have 2 on each side, 1 up top and 1 down the bottom. So I dont gross everyone out I thought a black and white photo was best for this one :)
The ones up the top look a little longer as I can see 3 rings/holes but I think they are all the same, it just depends how they were inserted into my jaw. I am not looking forward to him put elastics on them next week!!!!!!
The ones up the top look a little longer as I can see 3 rings/holes but I think they are all the same, it just depends how they were inserted into my jaw. I am not looking forward to him put elastics on them next week!!!!!!
New photos of my gap & bite
Here are some photos from today and some before photos. My bite has changed so much just from the expansion and you can probably understand now why I have trouble chewing.
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| Before SARPE |
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Gap today after 4 weeks of turning |
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| My terrible open bite now |
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| That's my pinky finger easily slipping into my mouth |
4 weeks post op update
Hey everyone
Just a quick update, it has been just over 4 weeks now since my surgery and I am pretty much back to normal. I still think I have a very very small amount of swelling but only I can really notice.
Eating is about 80% back to normal, there are still lots of things I can't eat yet or I just havent tried to eat. I havent tried to eat a steak as I think it would be too hard, I will try soon though. I also havent eaten any salads as lettuce is almost impossible to chew. Forget about sandwiches or bread rolls as my open bite is so big now I cant bite into it. I am finding since my expansion that I can only chew on my right back two molars which is really annoying. A knife and fork has become my new best friend, I find it so much easier to eat everything with them, its also impossible to eat some things without them.
I havent really noticed any change to my breathing yet, I thought I would have by now.
I have been a little concerned about my gap though as it doesnt look like it has increased in size the past week. I measured the gap, its 5 mm which is the same as last week, so I then measured how far the RME has expanded and its over 6mm. I noticed today though that I am starting to get gaps in between my front and second tooth, I hope it is normal!
Nearly all of my stitches have fallen out, only a couple remain.
What is really annoying me and sometimes getting me down is trying to decide what to eat all the time, especially when I am not at home. I can't just grab anything when im out, I am constantly eating rice or pasta as its the only option. I use to love eating, it was my favorite part of the day hehe - now I just hate it. I also takes me sooooooo long to eat a meal as I have to cut everything into small pieces, it gets cold by the time im finished.
Just a quick update, it has been just over 4 weeks now since my surgery and I am pretty much back to normal. I still think I have a very very small amount of swelling but only I can really notice.
Eating is about 80% back to normal, there are still lots of things I can't eat yet or I just havent tried to eat. I havent tried to eat a steak as I think it would be too hard, I will try soon though. I also havent eaten any salads as lettuce is almost impossible to chew. Forget about sandwiches or bread rolls as my open bite is so big now I cant bite into it. I am finding since my expansion that I can only chew on my right back two molars which is really annoying. A knife and fork has become my new best friend, I find it so much easier to eat everything with them, its also impossible to eat some things without them.
I havent really noticed any change to my breathing yet, I thought I would have by now.
I have been a little concerned about my gap though as it doesnt look like it has increased in size the past week. I measured the gap, its 5 mm which is the same as last week, so I then measured how far the RME has expanded and its over 6mm. I noticed today though that I am starting to get gaps in between my front and second tooth, I hope it is normal!
Nearly all of my stitches have fallen out, only a couple remain.
What is really annoying me and sometimes getting me down is trying to decide what to eat all the time, especially when I am not at home. I can't just grab anything when im out, I am constantly eating rice or pasta as its the only option. I use to love eating, it was my favorite part of the day hehe - now I just hate it. I also takes me sooooooo long to eat a meal as I have to cut everything into small pieces, it gets cold by the time im finished.
Friday, April 22, 2011
My mouth is quite talented!!! :)
Just another little random thing I am finding as my gap gets bigger is now my mouth is like a musical instrument!
When I talk and say some words my gap makes a whistle sound, its can be quite embarrassing actually haha
And when I push my tongue against the inside of my palate is makes a lovely clicking/popping noise. Noone can really hear it but me, but when I tell people about it they get pretty grossed out haha I think the noise is actually coming from my jaw moving and being a little loose from the bone being broken.
Oh well I have to have some amusement through the whole process............
For all the other SARPE patients out there, how annoying is it having to explain to everyone what's happened to your face??????????????? Seriously, I sound like a broken record and have a set answer for everyone.
When I talk and say some words my gap makes a whistle sound, its can be quite embarrassing actually haha
And when I push my tongue against the inside of my palate is makes a lovely clicking/popping noise. Noone can really hear it but me, but when I tell people about it they get pretty grossed out haha I think the noise is actually coming from my jaw moving and being a little loose from the bone being broken.
Oh well I have to have some amusement through the whole process............
For all the other SARPE patients out there, how annoying is it having to explain to everyone what's happened to your face??????????????? Seriously, I sound like a broken record and have a set answer for everyone.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Orthodontist Update
Hey Everyone
So I went for another quick check up last Monday and everything is still going well, no complications. I need to keep turning and go back in two weeks. At the next appointment he is going to put elastics on the anchorage plates to start changing my bite. I am a little anxious on whether it will hurt or be uncomfortable - ill soon find out!
On another note I am so glad its an extra long weekend here in Australia so I have 5 days off. I desperately need it as I am exhausted! My first day back at work last week was my first day in a new role within the company, on top of that I was still doing my old job. To make it worse I have had to train the new girl all of this week and do my new job which has not been kind to my mouth!!
The fact I have had had to talk so much trying to train someone has really made my mouth sore. I have had to take pain killers most nights and even sometimes during the day. I come home and my cheeks feel swollen and I start to slur my words as my cheeks are tired, its crazy. So I do not suggest having leave and starting a new job on your first day back from surgery, I am an idiot hahaha
Another problem I have had this week is migraines. I have been busy which contributes but I also know I am clenching my jaw during my sleep as it actually woke me up last night because it was causing pain. I really hope that I stop clenching and grinding once he starts adjusting my bite as I wont be able to handle getting these migraines again.
Well im off to enjoy my Easter and Anzac day, HAPPY EASTER & ANZAC DAY Everyone! Hopefully I will win at two up!
So I went for another quick check up last Monday and everything is still going well, no complications. I need to keep turning and go back in two weeks. At the next appointment he is going to put elastics on the anchorage plates to start changing my bite. I am a little anxious on whether it will hurt or be uncomfortable - ill soon find out!
On another note I am so glad its an extra long weekend here in Australia so I have 5 days off. I desperately need it as I am exhausted! My first day back at work last week was my first day in a new role within the company, on top of that I was still doing my old job. To make it worse I have had to train the new girl all of this week and do my new job which has not been kind to my mouth!!
The fact I have had had to talk so much trying to train someone has really made my mouth sore. I have had to take pain killers most nights and even sometimes during the day. I come home and my cheeks feel swollen and I start to slur my words as my cheeks are tired, its crazy. So I do not suggest having leave and starting a new job on your first day back from surgery, I am an idiot hahaha
Another problem I have had this week is migraines. I have been busy which contributes but I also know I am clenching my jaw during my sleep as it actually woke me up last night because it was causing pain. I really hope that I stop clenching and grinding once he starts adjusting my bite as I wont be able to handle getting these migraines again.
Well im off to enjoy my Easter and Anzac day, HAPPY EASTER & ANZAC DAY Everyone! Hopefully I will win at two up!
Friday, April 15, 2011
3 weeks post op
Well its 3 weeks post op today and I cant believe how quickly time has gone. I am feeling so much better now and feeling quite normal again. I think I will start to exercise again next week and see how I go.
I noticed today my eating has improved, I had some small pieces of chicken and lamb in indian food. I am getting over eating soft food and lack of variety. I would really love to just have some steak and salad one night.
My swelling hasn't completely gone and I look tired all the time but its definitely getting better.
I am probably about half way with my gap now and its not really bothering me. I find my speech is being slightly affected by the gap. I work in sales and do have to talk quite a bit so towards the end of the day I start to slur my words a little as my cheek muscles get tired. I still find it just physically impossible to prenounce certain words so I sometime spell them haha And people do find it hard to understand me and ask me to repeat myself occasionally- the joys of having an expander!!
I think some of my stiches came out today, but I still have most of them there. They are starting to feel a bit loose and annoying so im hoping they will all fall out in the next few days.
I am anxiously waiting for my breathing to improve, im hoping soon I can start to breath through my nose better. Some days it feels better already but I think I need more expansion before I really notice it.
I received my surgeon bill a few days ago (for any of the aussie's reading my blog). The surgery came to $4,500 ($1000 alone were the implants). I am still waiting for the anethestic bill but I am assuming its at least $1000. I will be able to claim some back from medicare and health fund so I wont be completely out of pocket. I am anticipating being about $3000 out of pocket.
I am seeing my orthodontist on Monday so I will post after that. Have a good weekend everyone!
I noticed today my eating has improved, I had some small pieces of chicken and lamb in indian food. I am getting over eating soft food and lack of variety. I would really love to just have some steak and salad one night.
My swelling hasn't completely gone and I look tired all the time but its definitely getting better.
I am probably about half way with my gap now and its not really bothering me. I find my speech is being slightly affected by the gap. I work in sales and do have to talk quite a bit so towards the end of the day I start to slur my words a little as my cheek muscles get tired. I still find it just physically impossible to prenounce certain words so I sometime spell them haha And people do find it hard to understand me and ask me to repeat myself occasionally- the joys of having an expander!!
I think some of my stiches came out today, but I still have most of them there. They are starting to feel a bit loose and annoying so im hoping they will all fall out in the next few days.
I am anxiously waiting for my breathing to improve, im hoping soon I can start to breath through my nose better. Some days it feels better already but I think I need more expansion before I really notice it.
I received my surgeon bill a few days ago (for any of the aussie's reading my blog). The surgery came to $4,500 ($1000 alone were the implants). I am still waiting for the anethestic bill but I am assuming its at least $1000. I will be able to claim some back from medicare and health fund so I wont be completely out of pocket. I am anticipating being about $3000 out of pocket.
I am seeing my orthodontist on Monday so I will post after that. Have a good weekend everyone!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Back to work today
Its been about a week since my last post and I went back to work for the first time today. I didnt last the whole day as I ended up very tired. Work has been quite good and said I can take it easy the first few days back, so I left at 3pm. I ended up having a little nap when I got home.
I also noticed how unfit I have become. I am normally quite an active and fit person and I was puffing from carrying my laptop from the car to my desk. I also weighed myself today and I have lost about 2 kilos, maybe even a little more.
Last week was a mixed bag, some days were good and others yuck and painful. I havent had any pain killers since Saturday night which is a good sign. I saw my orthodontist for the first time since my op on Thursday, he was very happy with my progress. He said I am healing very well and thinks I am talking well with the expander in.
I still cant really chew anything hard, even chicken or cooked vegies (unless they are mashed). I managed to eat a Maccas cheesburger yesterday which I was so happy about haha Its so soft you can just break it apart. Basically I still can't feel my front teeth so I cant use them to bite and trying to chew anything hard using your back teeth still hurts. I have just been sticking to rice, pasta, mince and bread (using a knife and fork).
My gap is definitely getting bigger and its about half way now (5mm). I have about 10 days more of turning. It doesnt hurt and the gap isnt bothering me at the moment as it doesnt look too bad. I will probably get more self concious about it once it gets bigger. My swelling doesnt seem to be reducing that much, if it is its happening very very slowly, so slow im not noticing. On Friday and Saturday it did actually feel and look like I had some more puffiness just under my eyes.
Here is a photo taken a couple of days ago.
I also noticed how unfit I have become. I am normally quite an active and fit person and I was puffing from carrying my laptop from the car to my desk. I also weighed myself today and I have lost about 2 kilos, maybe even a little more.
Last week was a mixed bag, some days were good and others yuck and painful. I havent had any pain killers since Saturday night which is a good sign. I saw my orthodontist for the first time since my op on Thursday, he was very happy with my progress. He said I am healing very well and thinks I am talking well with the expander in.
I still cant really chew anything hard, even chicken or cooked vegies (unless they are mashed). I managed to eat a Maccas cheesburger yesterday which I was so happy about haha Its so soft you can just break it apart. Basically I still can't feel my front teeth so I cant use them to bite and trying to chew anything hard using your back teeth still hurts. I have just been sticking to rice, pasta, mince and bread (using a knife and fork).
My gap is definitely getting bigger and its about half way now (5mm). I have about 10 days more of turning. It doesnt hurt and the gap isnt bothering me at the moment as it doesnt look too bad. I will probably get more self concious about it once it gets bigger. My swelling doesnt seem to be reducing that much, if it is its happening very very slowly, so slow im not noticing. On Friday and Saturday it did actually feel and look like I had some more puffiness just under my eyes.
Here is a photo taken a couple of days ago.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Bruising & Gap photos
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| Most of the brusing was on my left side, the swelling was greater on the left as well |
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| Gap after a few turns, you can see brusing also |
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| Trying to get some relief!! |
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| Tiny gap |
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| Gap a couple of days ago |
Finally some relief!
Hi everyone
I haven't blogged for a few days as I have been in some pain and not quite up to it.
I am about 9 days post SARPE now and feel like I have turned the corner. my swelling doesn't seem as bad and the pain is easing.
From day 5 - 7 was by far the WORST! I was having quite bad pain all across the sinus and top of my head and in my TMJ, it felt like a constant migraine for 3 days. The swelling didn't seem to change over those days and the plates were still digging into my cheek causing even more pain. I also felt like my jaw was heavy and all the muscles just couldnt hold it up. My neck and shoulders have also been really tight so my husband has been massaging them for me which helps. I considered calling my surgeon as I thought it was suppose to get better not worse, but I toughed it out and it was all ok.
I did have my first cry on Friday :( I think it just got all too much and I needed to release some emotions and I was experiencing a fair bit of pain that just wouldnt go away with meds.
But now I only have some pain in my top jaw and sinus but its not as bad. The numbness is getting better aswell.
Turning - I have been turning the key every day now and have a small gap, I will post some photos later. It doesn't hurt turning but I do feel a little pressure. I think part of the pain I was experiencing was from turning while still swollen, it increased the pressure in the sinus.
Swelling - Has definitely started going down. I am still puffy around my eyes and nose but the cheeks are subsiding and releasing a little pressure off my plates
Anchorage plates - I have mentioned this before but I think alot of my discomfort and pain is coming from the plates. I have little round marks inside my cheek which look like the pieces of skin will fall off because they have dug in so much.
Eating - I have been eating some noodles and even ate a lasagne with ease on Saturday. I still can't chew things like chicken yet as it is a little too hard
Jaw movement - I found that a few days ago my jaw was very stiff! Because I hadnt been chewing it feels like it starts to freeze. If I knew this I wouldve started trying to move my jaw earlier to relax the muscles. It has more movement now as I have been doing my own little exercises and massaging it. I still can't open it very wide but its getting better.
Anyway its getting a little long this blog so I will finish up. I have my first ortho appointment Thursday so I will update after the appointment.
I haven't blogged for a few days as I have been in some pain and not quite up to it.
I am about 9 days post SARPE now and feel like I have turned the corner. my swelling doesn't seem as bad and the pain is easing.
From day 5 - 7 was by far the WORST! I was having quite bad pain all across the sinus and top of my head and in my TMJ, it felt like a constant migraine for 3 days. The swelling didn't seem to change over those days and the plates were still digging into my cheek causing even more pain. I also felt like my jaw was heavy and all the muscles just couldnt hold it up. My neck and shoulders have also been really tight so my husband has been massaging them for me which helps. I considered calling my surgeon as I thought it was suppose to get better not worse, but I toughed it out and it was all ok.
I did have my first cry on Friday :( I think it just got all too much and I needed to release some emotions and I was experiencing a fair bit of pain that just wouldnt go away with meds.
But now I only have some pain in my top jaw and sinus but its not as bad. The numbness is getting better aswell.
Turning - I have been turning the key every day now and have a small gap, I will post some photos later. It doesn't hurt turning but I do feel a little pressure. I think part of the pain I was experiencing was from turning while still swollen, it increased the pressure in the sinus.
Swelling - Has definitely started going down. I am still puffy around my eyes and nose but the cheeks are subsiding and releasing a little pressure off my plates
Anchorage plates - I have mentioned this before but I think alot of my discomfort and pain is coming from the plates. I have little round marks inside my cheek which look like the pieces of skin will fall off because they have dug in so much.
Eating - I have been eating some noodles and even ate a lasagne with ease on Saturday. I still can't chew things like chicken yet as it is a little too hard
Jaw movement - I found that a few days ago my jaw was very stiff! Because I hadnt been chewing it feels like it starts to freeze. If I knew this I wouldve started trying to move my jaw earlier to relax the muscles. It has more movement now as I have been doing my own little exercises and massaging it. I still can't open it very wide but its getting better.
Anyway its getting a little long this blog so I will finish up. I have my first ortho appointment Thursday so I will update after the appointment.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
OUCH TMJ Pain is back
The one thing I was worried about was my TMJ pain coming back after surgery, well I was right! Because I can't use my night splint anymore I am pretty sure I am still grinding and clenching in my sleep so my TMJ pain has been quite bad the past two days. Also I am sure some of it is from the surgery too as everything feels so tight. My neck and back have also been a little sore so I think I might visit my chiropractor today so see if he can relieve some of my pain.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Day 4 Update
Hey Everyone
Its been 4 days now since surgery and I am starting to feel better. I honestly think that most of the discomfort/pain I have had is mainly from the anchorage plates that were put in. I saw the surgeon yesterday and he is happy with everything. Dr Peter Mouser has been amazing, I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Turning the key
Dr Mouser started turning yesterday, a few days earlier than expected. I am turning once a day for about 20 days. I am already starting to get a gap and I wouldnt say it hurts that much, its just more of a tight/pressure feeling after its turned. Neurofen plus has been helping a great deal.
Swelling & numbness
The swelling is slowly going down and a little bit of bruising has shown up on my cheek today. The swelling was not bad at first it gradually got worse over the first 3 days, now I think its starting to subside. I also have some slight bruising on my cheek today, its a little bit yellow. Regarding numbness I couldnt feel my top lips for almost 3 days, but its getting better now. When I touch my front teeth I cant really feel them, I think it will take a while for that to come back.
Eating
Normally I LOVE my food and I thought I would find it quite difficult eating soft and liquid foods, but it actually hasnt been that bad. The first few days I didnt feel like eating too much and when I did eat I would get so full quickly. The key is to have a variety and invest in a blender if you don't have one. Some of the foods I have been having are: chicken and vegie soup blended (from a chinese take away shop), Sanitarium up and go protein drinks, custard, pumpkin soup, tomato soup, ice cream and jelly. I had scrambled eggs for dinner last night and I just had some fried rice for lunch today - you dont need to chew either, they are quite easy to swallow hole. I am going to make a beef casserole tonight and blend it to make sure I get some much needed nutrients. And tomorrow I plan on having some mashed vegies. I havent really lost any weight yet but I think thats because of the swelling, Ill let you know in a few days if that changes!
Sleeping
Sleeping has not been too bad, I had to sleep on my back for the first few nights, but now I am sleeping normally. As gross as it sounds the first few nights I would have blood on my pillow when I woke up so I started using a towel. The pain killers help you get a good night sleep! I am finding I need a nap during the day as you do get tired quite easily, but I am not sleeping as much as I thought I would.
Brushing teeth
I started lightly brushing my teeth the next day. Its actually really important I keep the plates clean so I have a special soft toothbrush from my OS. I am also using savacol mouth wash after all of my meals.
Other randoms things I have experienced
The first night or two I had some blood coming out through either my nose or throat. I am still occasionally bringing up blood but its subsided. Pain in general isnt too bad, its definitely managable with pain meds, I am also on antibotics to prevent infection. I have had my husband off work helping me which you definitely need, you just dont have much energy to do anything. Ice packs didnt help that much, only on the 2nd or 3rd day when my face felt hot from the swelling.
I have also found every day to be different and your days are very up and down. One minute I feel great then a few hours later I feel crappy. I think sometimes its because I havent eaten much because once i eat i start to feel a bit better.
Another nice note was my orthodontist sent me a nice package while I was in hospital as a get well present, I thought that was a lovely touch :) They really do care about their clients and I have received great care from both the ortho and OS.
Its been 4 days now since surgery and I am starting to feel better. I honestly think that most of the discomfort/pain I have had is mainly from the anchorage plates that were put in. I saw the surgeon yesterday and he is happy with everything. Dr Peter Mouser has been amazing, I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Turning the key
Dr Mouser started turning yesterday, a few days earlier than expected. I am turning once a day for about 20 days. I am already starting to get a gap and I wouldnt say it hurts that much, its just more of a tight/pressure feeling after its turned. Neurofen plus has been helping a great deal.
Swelling & numbness
The swelling is slowly going down and a little bit of bruising has shown up on my cheek today. The swelling was not bad at first it gradually got worse over the first 3 days, now I think its starting to subside. I also have some slight bruising on my cheek today, its a little bit yellow. Regarding numbness I couldnt feel my top lips for almost 3 days, but its getting better now. When I touch my front teeth I cant really feel them, I think it will take a while for that to come back.
Eating
Normally I LOVE my food and I thought I would find it quite difficult eating soft and liquid foods, but it actually hasnt been that bad. The first few days I didnt feel like eating too much and when I did eat I would get so full quickly. The key is to have a variety and invest in a blender if you don't have one. Some of the foods I have been having are: chicken and vegie soup blended (from a chinese take away shop), Sanitarium up and go protein drinks, custard, pumpkin soup, tomato soup, ice cream and jelly. I had scrambled eggs for dinner last night and I just had some fried rice for lunch today - you dont need to chew either, they are quite easy to swallow hole. I am going to make a beef casserole tonight and blend it to make sure I get some much needed nutrients. And tomorrow I plan on having some mashed vegies. I havent really lost any weight yet but I think thats because of the swelling, Ill let you know in a few days if that changes!
Sleeping
Sleeping has not been too bad, I had to sleep on my back for the first few nights, but now I am sleeping normally. As gross as it sounds the first few nights I would have blood on my pillow when I woke up so I started using a towel. The pain killers help you get a good night sleep! I am finding I need a nap during the day as you do get tired quite easily, but I am not sleeping as much as I thought I would.
Brushing teeth
I started lightly brushing my teeth the next day. Its actually really important I keep the plates clean so I have a special soft toothbrush from my OS. I am also using savacol mouth wash after all of my meals.
Other randoms things I have experienced
The first night or two I had some blood coming out through either my nose or throat. I am still occasionally bringing up blood but its subsided. Pain in general isnt too bad, its definitely managable with pain meds, I am also on antibotics to prevent infection. I have had my husband off work helping me which you definitely need, you just dont have much energy to do anything. Ice packs didnt help that much, only on the 2nd or 3rd day when my face felt hot from the swelling.
I have also found every day to be different and your days are very up and down. One minute I feel great then a few hours later I feel crappy. I think sometimes its because I havent eaten much because once i eat i start to feel a bit better.
Another nice note was my orthodontist sent me a nice package while I was in hospital as a get well present, I thought that was a lovely touch :) They really do care about their clients and I have received great care from both the ortho and OS.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Day 1 to 3 post op
The swelling has gradually gotten worse over the past 3 days as you can see in the photos. Everyone says day 3 is the worse and I agree. I have been in some pain because of the swelling and I think a part of it is from the anchorage plates they put in. They are pushing up against my cheeks. Pain killers are helping though and I am finding ice is now helping also as my face feels quite hot from the swelling. I am not really bruised though which doesn't surprise me too much as I dont normally bruise easy. the bruising may come later, who knows...
Morning after and first night at home
Day 2 & 3
Morning after and first night at home
Day 2 & 3
Straight after op
Here are some photos of when I first got out of the operation and the first night. You can see the swelling wasn't too bad but I had a bit of blood in my mouth -gross I know! And I had a gap straight away as they turned the expander during the operation to make sure it works.
When I first woke up I was in pain, but I had the 'magic button' which I had to press about 3 times before I got relief, then I became quite comfortable. I had ice on my face for a little while but it didnt give much relief.
When I first woke up I was in pain, but I had the 'magic button' which I had to press about 3 times before I got relief, then I became quite comfortable. I had ice on my face for a little while but it didnt give much relief.
Pre op profile photos
Here are a couple of photos I took the night before my Op. The first image shows my mouth relaxed and the second one is me trying to close my mouth. You can see how uncomfortable it is for me and the dimpling I get in my chin.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Home from hospital
Hi Everyone
I got home from hospital a couple of hours ago and feeling very tired and weak. I will update u in the next few days in more depth with some photos. The Dr said it all went perfectly and I am recovering well. I have been having some soups and lots of those protein drinks, choclate ones - they are quite yummy :) The main thing I have noticed is the blood that I am bringin up, I think its coming from my nose and going down the back of my throat. The pain isnt too bad, I had one of those self administer buttons for pain relief which are always good. I am swollen and starting to bruise and I think most of the pain that I do have is actually from the anchorage plates they put in. I also can't feel my top lip as they cut into the nerves, it will be like that for a while.
So good luck to the girls who are having their surgery soon. Its honestly not too painful, im sure the upper and lower jaw surgery would be alot worse. But it is uncomfortable and I can tell it will take me a few weeks to recover. And thanks for all the well wishes, talk to you all soon!
I got home from hospital a couple of hours ago and feeling very tired and weak. I will update u in the next few days in more depth with some photos. The Dr said it all went perfectly and I am recovering well. I have been having some soups and lots of those protein drinks, choclate ones - they are quite yummy :) The main thing I have noticed is the blood that I am bringin up, I think its coming from my nose and going down the back of my throat. The pain isnt too bad, I had one of those self administer buttons for pain relief which are always good. I am swollen and starting to bruise and I think most of the pain that I do have is actually from the anchorage plates they put in. I also can't feel my top lip as they cut into the nerves, it will be like that for a while.
So good luck to the girls who are having their surgery soon. Its honestly not too painful, im sure the upper and lower jaw surgery would be alot worse. But it is uncomfortable and I can tell it will take me a few weeks to recover. And thanks for all the well wishes, talk to you all soon!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Surgery tomorrow and its my birthday today!!
Well the day has finally come, my surgery is tomorrow. I have been so busy at work today trying to finish everything before I have a few weeks off, that I haven't even been thinking about the surgery. I thought at this stage I would be quite nervous but im not yet.
Its also my birthday today but its a pretty low key birthday, just hanging at home tonight and having some take away.
Anyway I will be taking plenty of photos and keeping you all updated, so look out for some new posts in the next few days.
P.s. I decided to have some yummy hamburgers seeing I won't be eating anything solid for a while hehehe
Its also my birthday today but its a pretty low key birthday, just hanging at home tonight and having some take away.
Anyway I will be taking plenty of photos and keeping you all updated, so look out for some new posts in the next few days.
P.s. I decided to have some yummy hamburgers seeing I won't be eating anything solid for a while hehehe
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
Expander is in!!!
I got my expander (RME/RPE) in yesterday, it is so annoying. It isn't really hurting too much I am just struggling with my speech. I know it will get better but I am paranoid about it especially because I work in sales and have to talk quite a bit. I am also just trying to get use to eating a certain way as it can be difficult eating things like lettuce, it just gets stuck inbetween my pallate and expander.
It's one week today until my surgery and I am starting to get nervous. All I kept thinking yesterday was 'what have I gotten myself into', it's all really starting to hit me. Well there is no turning back now, so I just have to suck it up - literally haha
It's one week today until my surgery and I am starting to get nervous. All I kept thinking yesterday was 'what have I gotten myself into', it's all really starting to hit me. Well there is no turning back now, so I just have to suck it up - literally haha
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Sleep specialist appointment
Well I had my appointment with the sleep specialist today which just confirmed what the orthodontists have been saying, I do have a sleep disorder because of my bite and tongue. I don't have sleep apnea but he does thinks I have Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). I haven't had a sleep test but he was quite certain I have it from my assessment today, so much so he isnt bothering doing a test because the SARPE surgery should fix the problem. I only need to see him again if the surgery does not help.
A quick run down on what UARS is, basically I am having very disrupted sleeps without even realising. Because my palate is so narrow and my tongue does not sit properly it falls back when im sleeping and obstructing my airways which causes my brain to react and prompts me to move positions. They call them arousels and describe it like someone a couple of times an hour poking you and disturbing you. Because my palate is narrow my nose cavity is as well which is causing blockages in my nose and hence I breath through my mouth.
If you google UARS I have probably 80% of the symptoms!
After years of complaining about being tired its actually refreshing to know that I do actually have a problem, as strange as that sounds. I have seen so many doctors for various symptoms but they never found anything - until now! I dont feel like such a freak anymore.
A quick run down on what UARS is, basically I am having very disrupted sleeps without even realising. Because my palate is so narrow and my tongue does not sit properly it falls back when im sleeping and obstructing my airways which causes my brain to react and prompts me to move positions. They call them arousels and describe it like someone a couple of times an hour poking you and disturbing you. Because my palate is narrow my nose cavity is as well which is causing blockages in my nose and hence I breath through my mouth.
If you google UARS I have probably 80% of the symptoms!
After years of complaining about being tired its actually refreshing to know that I do actually have a problem, as strange as that sounds. I have seen so many doctors for various symptoms but they never found anything - until now! I dont feel like such a freak anymore.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Spacers!
A quick update, I got more spacers in today. Next week its impressions, then the following week I get the torture device - the expander!! Not looking forward to that.
3 Weeks until surgery day, i'm excited but nervous
3 Weeks until surgery day, i'm excited but nervous
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
TAD's (temporary anchorage devices)
Well I learnt something new today that the anchorage implants I am getting are quite common and called something else - TAD's. For months I have been trying to google information and finally found bucket loads! So this is what they are going to look like, I will have 4 placed into my gum.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Brace's on
My braces on my bottom teeth are now on. I was allowed to get clear ones on the bottom and I believe they will be clear on the top as well.
Next week I get separator's, following week impressions, then the torture expansion device. Really don't want that thing in my mouth as I have had one before. All I remember was one day nearly choking on lettuce - can't wait for that again FUN FUN FUN :)
My first blog
Hi Everyone
This is my first time ever blogging, so it's all new to me!
I'm 30 yrs old from Australia and will soon have surgically assisted rapid palate expansion. I thought I would start a blog as I have found other's people's quiet helpful.
Basically I have a narrow palate, anterior open bite where the upper and lower front teeth do not meet at all and right and left crossbites. I have had braces TWICE before but this problem has never been addressed as I don't think it was much of an issue when I was younger.
How this has come about is because I have been suffering migraines for over 10 years and about 2 yrs ago I starting clenching (and now grinding) in my sleep which then starting causing TMJ. My jaw clicks quite badly aswell and it's very difficult to eat. My Chiropractor sent me to a dentist to get a night splint. The dentist told me I needed to see an orthodontist and most likely needed surgery but I refused to go. Two years later and my bite started getting worse and now I have no choice. The splint does help relieve some of my symptoms but my bite has definitely worsened with the NTI splint and now I wish I got just a normal mouth guard type splint. A prosthodontist told me those type of splints are not good for open bite patients!!
I have also been referred to a sleep specialist as I am always tired, ever since I was a teenager I have complained about being tired. Apparently having a narrow palate can cause sleep apnea even though I don't snore. Ill let you all know how I go with that appointment.
Its been a rollercoaster ride for me the past few months as different ortho's recommended different treatments, but I am very confident with the decision I have made. I was told by one dr that I should have mandibular surgery but I have chosen a different route.
Treatment
On March 26th I will be having my surgery, the expansion device will go in a week before. They will also be putting in 4 titanium anchorage implants which will help move my jaw into the correct position.By using these implants I will avoid mandibular surgery. They anticipate the whole process will be about 2 - 2 1 /2 yrs
Cost
My braces alone are approx $9000 and I will be out of pocket approx $2500 -$3000 for the surgery. Because this process is for medical reasons I was able to go through medicare and claim part of my braces through them. I received about $3300 back. Not all orthodontists do this though but mine did. You need to speak to your doctor to be eligible for the Dental health care plan. The surgery is being covered by my health fund, but not fully
Drs
My orthodontist is Theo Baisi of the ortho practice and the surgeon is Dr Peter Mouser
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