my braces journey

Can You Get Discounts On Braces & Invisalign Deals For Black Friday?

Traditionally, braces and Invisalign treatments are expensive. But more and more, we’re finding there are Black Friday deals out there – Take a look! Read more →

Best Water Flosser For Braces 2024 – The Only 3 You’ll Need + Why?

Discover the best water flosser for braces and find out why we recommend them so much. Say goodbye to annoying flossing struggles! Read more →

Can You Eat Popcorn With Braces? – The Popcorn Predicament + 7 BETTER Alternatives

Can you eat popcorn with braces? Discover the do’s and don’ts, alternative options, and tips for enjoying popcorn safely while wearing braces Read more →

Doja Cat’s Teeth Before and After Veneers + SERIOUSLY Bad Dental Hygiene

The world of celebrities is not all glitz, glamour, and red carpets. Problems with dental health affect everyone. One such journey is that of Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, more commonly … Read more →

Does Lil Tecca Still Have Braces? How Lil Tecca’s LONG Braces Journey Ended

Lil Tecca, the teenage rapper who shook the music world with his hit single “Ransom,” was only 16 when he first caught the public’s attention. An out-of-the-blue tweet brought him … Read more →

Did Cardi B Have Braces Or Invisalign – Cardi B’s Dental Work Secrets…

Cardi B is as renowned for her larger-than-life personality and lyrical genius as she is for her stunning transformation. From her early days in The Bronx, New York, to her … Read more →

Can You Eat Peanut Butter With Braces? The Heart-Breaking Truth

Peanut butter is amazing in all it’s forms. But eating peanut butter with braces is probably a bad idea. Find out the truth Read more →

Do Clear Braces Turn Yellow? Real Results + Quick Fixes For Ceramic Braces Stains

Getting clear braces as an adult was a great idea. But do clear braces turn yellow? And what should you do if ceramic braces stain? Find out here! Read more →

Broken Bracket On Braces? The 3 Things You NEED To Do

Breaking a bracket is a common experience when you have braces. Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered. Find out what to do right now! Read more →

Can You Eat Ritz Crackers With Braces?

Ritz crackers are one of the most iconic snacks the USA has ever produced. But can the comfort crackers be eaten safely with braces? Read more →

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How Long Will It Take to Get My Braces?

Round Lake, IL – Millions of people of all ages wear braces to improve the look and health of their smiles. If you are one of the many getting ready to get braces, you probably have some questions, like what you should expect on the day the braces are put on. Dr. Michael Stosich walks potential patients through what to expect when getting braces.

“We’re often asked how long it will take to put the braces on ,” says Dr. Stosich. “ My answer is about as long as it takes to watch a good movie. You should typically plan on your appointment taking about two hours . Then, you’re free to go about your daily life.”

So, what exactly happens at this appointment?

1. cleaning and drying.

Your teeth are cleaned and dried thoroughly so the brackets will adhere properly.

2. Securing the brackets

Once dried, the bonding material is applied, and the brackets are attached to each tooth. This bonding material is completely harmless, but it may have an unpleasant taste. A tiny bit of the glue goes on each tooth, and a special blue light will help the glue set.

3. Attaching the archwire

Once everything else is in place, the orthodontist will attach the archwire to the brackets. The archwire is held onto each bracket by a tiny rubber band, known as a ligature. Make your orthodontic experience unique by customizing rubber bands to your favorite colors. Once securely in place, the archwire is snipped to ensure it doesn’t poke into the back of your mouth.

Some orthodontists may use bands around the back molars, however, Dr. Stosich does not. Dr. Stosich uses only brackets and archwires, which allows for more precision and increased comfort for the patient.

“This is the process for traditional metal braces,” says Dr. Stosich. “If you choose an option such as lingual braces , your appointment may be a bit longer. Lingual braces are placed on the tongue side of the teeth and can take longer to place.”

If you’ve opted for a clear aligner system, your appointment will be much shorter. To create the aligners , you’ll have impressions and digital images taken. Once ready, you’ll visit your orthodontist to get your aligners and have any adjustments made.

Post-Procedure Care and Adjustments

The experience of having your braces placed should not be painful. However, you will have some tenderness after the appointment and in the days immediately following. You may have a slight headache or jaw discomfort. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days.

Getting used to the brackets and wires in your mouth will take a few days. Use orthodontic wax over any areas that cause discomfort. Rinsing with warm salt water can relieve discomfort, or use Anbesol or Orajel.

Adjusting to Life with Braces

“There is a learning curve to adjusting to life with braces,” says Dr. Stosich. “ But, if you follow our guidelines you’ll be back to normal in no time . And if you ever have any questions or concerns, we’re always here for you.”

Getting your braces on is a big day. It’s the start of your journey to a healthier, straighter smile. If you’re ready to get started, call Dr. Stosich and his team at Stosich Consulting today, 847-548-2400 (Grayslake office) or 224-408-2200 (Kenilworth office).

Dr. Michael Stosich is a board-certified orthodontist and the director of orthodontics at the University of Chicago Medicine. He is known for his extensive experience in leading clinical enterprises, publishing, and lecturing both in the U.S. and internationally. Dr. Stosich has expertise in starting, growing, and maintaining successful orthodontic practices, including those in pediatric dentistry, general dentistry, and multi-specialty clinics. He serves on the editorial board of several publications and has been involved in innovating patient care and education, focusing on the future of dental and orthodontic healthcare.

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Braces as an Adult: Month 20

As of November 7, I’m 20 months into my braces journey. As my initial time frame was 18 months, I’m beyond ready to be done. Spoiler alert: I still have a ways to go. So I’m still plugging away, enduring braces one day at a time and checking in here with occasional updates for you.

When I published my initial post about my first month with braces, I said that I would share periodic updates about my journey with braces as an adult. In these posts, I don’t share month-to-month progress, full details about what I’m getting fixed, and lots of before/after shots. Instead, I’m writing real-life updates every few months, discussing what it’s actually like to have braces as an adult.

In that first post, I talk about why I need braces and why I made the decision to get braces in early 2017 after putting it off since HS. The short version of the story is that I finally did it because I need a night guard for teeth grinding/clenching. I couldn’t imagine wearing one the way my teeth fit together (or more accurately, didn’t fit together) prior to braces. I’ve also finally reached a stage in my life where finances, time, and general life circumstances (i.e. no upcoming plans for a move) allow for braces. So I went for it.

What’s been happening with my braces/orthodontic appointments the past few months.

I broke my usual three-month update streak because at the 19-month mark, I’d had just one appointment since the last update. Consequently, I didn’t have much to report. So I waited an extra month to check in again. I do have more to share after my most recent appointment.

To recap, in late May, I had a new set of full X-rays and scans so that they could create a set of custom wires. These wires will (hopefully) finish out my braces treatment. I got the first set of custom wires in mid-July, along with chains to keep closing the top gaps and a new bottom gap that appeared over the summer. Thankfully, the chain closed this bottom gap very quickly, within a week or two at most of this appointment.

The two most recent appointments

Since then, I’ve had two more appointments. At the mid-September appointment, I got my second set of custom wires, which was pretty uneventful (hence pushing back this update). I had the usual temporary (a week or so) setback with eating, and then I was more or less back to normal again.

At the late October appointment, I got my third set of custom wires, as well as new chains for the top and bottom (which go all the way around, a first) and rubber brands (also a first). It’s the most I’ve had done in a single appointment since very early in the process, and I’ve definitely felt it. I’m very grateful that I made it this far into my braces journey without rubber brands. They’re a special sort of torture.  Eating wasn’t any worse than it usually was after an adjustment. But I was in a lot more pain. And you switch in new rubber bands every single day. So there’s constant pressure/pain.

The recommendation for wearing rubber bands is “as much as possible,” with breaks no longer than 45 minutes. I’m not going to lie: it is so hard. I can’t wear them while eating because they pop off too easily. So I take them off…and I forget about them, even when they’re right next to me. I’m doing my best but definitely breaking the 45 minute rule more often than I’d like to admit.

What’s happening with my braces/orthodontic appointments over the next few months.

The late October appointment is the first time the orthodontist has told me that the end is in sight. I think they’ll have a better idea exactly where I’m at after this stint with my third set of custom wires and the accompanying six-week stint of rubber bands. My gaps are nearly closed (more on that below). There’s just a little more adjustment work that needs to happen before I can have my top right lateral incisor built up.

As I discussed in my month 16 update, since the beginning of my braces journey, there’s been the possibility of building up my top right lateral incisor. It’s noticeably (not significantly) smaller than my top left lateral incisor. We are still moving forward with this plan. When everything else is finished, they’ll space out the incisor. This will allow me to have as little time as possible with a gap on either side of the tooth. In late October, they talked with me about having my dentist on the final placement of the incisor prior to having it built up, which is fine. He’s been on the same page as the orthodontic team throughout the process.

I have no idea how long it will take to finish up the braces adjustment, do the incisor work, and then complete the routine braces finish up (taking them off, taking new impressions for retainers, etc.). I’m not sure where the incisor work will fit in the timeline either. The process will still take a minimum of a few more months. It’s a drag that I’ll continue this journey into 2019. At least there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Early September 2018

Halloween 2018

My creepy gaps are finally almost gone.

Over the past few updates, I’ve been sharing pictures of my creepy gaps slowly getting smaller and smaller. You can see this progress in the month 10 , month 13 , and month 16 updates. During the past four months, I’ve reached a point where at last, it seems like they’ll eventually be gone. Honestly, you don’t notice them in the above pictures. Jake took the early September 2018 picture before my second set of custom wires. Even zoomed in, the gaps are barely visible. The left gap is nearly closed. The right gap is slightly bigger and won’t close all the way on its own. Hence we’ll need to build out the incisor.

Needless to say, the lack of creepy gaps is very exciting. I had the two teeth pulled about two weeks into my braces journey. So I’ve been dealing with the gaps almost the entire 20 months. Of course, I hate how they look in pictures. But more generally, I am over removing stuck food from them all the time.

Finally, I don’t share a lot of specifics about my treatment in these posts. But I had to share the name of my rubber bands. So random, right? Who comes up with these things? And what are the names of the other strengths of rubber bands? In the orthodontist’s office, they kept referring to this type of rubber band as Rocky Mountain.

To those who are sticking with me, reading these lengthy updates about my experience with braces as an adult, thank you. If you have personal experience with braces as an adult, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

The full adult braces journey:

Monthly updates:.

Month 4 // Month 7 // Month 10 // Month 13 // Month 16 // Month 20 // Month 23

Final posts:

Adult Braces: The Beginning of the End // Adult Braces: The End of the Journey // Adult Braces: Final Thoughts

Before and after comparision!

Adult Braces: Before and After Pictures

THE resource you need for eating with braces!

What to Eat with Braces [Includes a FREE Printable!]

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My Braces Journey😬 Is it Worth it? 💸💰

Welcome back angel! 😇

Today let’s talk about my braces journey!😬

I used to have funny teeth where my schoolmates made fun of me. My teeth were overbite and misaligned. 🥲It makes me really insecure and uncomfortable. So I decided to go for orthodontic treatment and put on a braces. I didn’t know this decision could change my life so much! 💛💛💛

My braces journey took about 2 years 3 months. Before putting on the braces, I took X-Ray and extracted 4 teeth (2 top and 2 botttom). Then, every month I will meet my dentist to do adjustment. Throughout the 2 years time, I thought I will be struggling because listening to many braces stories, but in actual it just hurt a little💛💛

It costs me about RM7k because of my teeth condition (it was 7 years ago). But I think it is totally worth it!

With this cost, I got to improve my dental health, boosted my self-confidence, and provided me with a renewed sense of comfort and happiness. I can even speak better and feel more confident to show my beautiful teeth!🦷

I am sure some of you still considering whether or not to get a braces. My advise would be, GO FOR IT! (If your finance allows you to do so) Until now, I never regret my decision to get the braces! 🥰🥰

Till next sharing!

#braces #bracesgigi #beautywithlemon8 #gigibraces #teethcare #teethtreatment

Hi! Any tips on taking care of the teeth after teeth extraction? I extracted 2 teeth and 2 more will be next week. I’m suffering now. On top of that, I’ve Ulcers😭share your tips to ease the pain, please.

babe i dah 3 years with braces, penat nak tunggu😂

Wow! Nice journey, looks like the pain paid off?

Definitely worth it! Looking great! 👍

wahhh i pun nk try braces tapi DR said gigi dah okay 🥲

U have a pretty smile

I am wearing braces now 🤩

Your smile so beautiful 😍 Love your braces journey🫶🏻💖

We had the same braces journey! I miss wearing braces ❤️

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My Braces Journey: Installment, Adjustment, Ligatures and Retainer

I have been contemplating on getting braces since I was about 16 years old. The first orthodontist that I had visited told me that I had to get braces on both top and bottom teeth. Unfortunately, I only wanted to get braces ? on my top teeth.

In early 2016 I decided that I should get my braces done. I visited the orthodontist along with my friend seeing that she had her braces installed. I did my free consultation and took pictures of my teeth so that the orthodontist can keep a record of my progress.

During this period I did not shop around, I just went ahead and began my braces journey. The orthodontist scheduled my braces appointment for April 12, 2016. I was overly anxious, so I watched a few braces journey videos on YouTube just to get an idea of the entire process. I anticipated the return of the Orthodontist in April in order to install my braces. In case anyone is interested, this is the orthodontic contact details that I went to:

Boston Orthodontics Patricia L. Brown, D.M.D., M.P.H Front street #209, Sint Maarten, N.A.

Break down of my braces journey

First visit: free braces consultation and pictures.

Cost: $100 (pictures) The orthodontist checked my teeth, took pictures and recommended getting my teeth clean by a dentist prior braces installment.

Second visit: Braces installment

Cost: $500 (first installment) + braces kit

Monthly braces appointment for tightening I will be paying $100 x 15 estimated months

On this very day, I took 1 million and one selfies because I knew that I was about to miss my ‘oh so beloved’ space teeth. I invited my friend to come along with me to the orthodontist while I get my braces installed.

Through a majority of the entire process I had to keep my eyes closed while my teeth were sand down, cemented and brackets were being applied to the individual tooth. At one point my mouth got extremely dry since I had a smile maker and cotton stuffed inside of my mouth; this was enforced to prevent my teeth from getting wet so that the brackets glued to teeth properly.

I had taken painkillers beforehand, so I did not feel any pain from the braces but it took a while to get used to wearing them.

Read how to floss while wearing braces

The orthodontist gave me a braces kit which included a travel size kit which included a travel size toothbrush, dental floss, floss threader, dental mirror, and orthodontic wax which I hardly use. The orthodontist also showed me a different technique of brushing with braces since I will have to clean the individual brackets and floss between them.

After I was done I went straight to eating and drinking. I was cleaning my teeth like crazy because I had food stuck all over my teeth. Read how to keep mouth clean while wearing braces

Fourth visit: Changing Elastics and Tightening

Cost: $200 It took approximately 3-4 months before my gap was closed. My orthodontist changed the archwire and gave me some fresh elastic ligatures (color ties).

Seventh visit: Changing ligatures and bottom retainer

So this time I notice that my gap is completely closed; my teeth don’t seem as big as how they had appeared before. They look a bit smaller as if I barely have teeth. My teeth are not protruded but a little straighter than how they had been before I got my braces installed.

On this trip; my orthodontist took the imprints of my teeth so that she could be able to make the retainer for my bottom teeth. A soft pink bubblegum alike product was placed into my mouth to carve out the shape of my teeth. This was placed in my mouth until it became hard for about 5-8 mins. On my next visit to the orthodontist, I will receive my retainer that will help to close the small gaps on my bottom teeth. I am getting closer to getting my braces removed; just a few more months to go and I should have nicer, straighter teeth. Bye! Bye! Gap.

If you ever had braces, feel free to share your braces journey experience with me. If you are thinking of getting braces, also ask me any questions regarding getting braces that you would like to know.

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Tione is a full-time student and a Blogger. When she is not in class she is actively working on her blog.

Penelope Smith

I liked that you pointed out that you need to make sure that you change out your elastics. It is good to know that using […]  Read More I liked that you pointed out that you need to make sure that you change out your elastics. It is good to know that using elastics will really help close the gaps in your teeth. It does seem like wearing the elastics could help you close the gaps quickly.  Read Less

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What to Expect: Almost Done with Braces

When I started this braces journey a year and a half go in November of 2017, I knew absolutely nothing about braces. I had no idea what I was getting into and what to expect.

I have written a few posts over time , sharing things that I learned along the way and tips and tricks I found useful .

My son Rennon has been a real trooper. He’s not completely done with his treatment yet, he still has a few months left, but I wanted to write this post about all the things I’m learning about what to expect in the last few weeks and life after the traditional metal braces are off.

We even have some signs your braces are coming off soon to help you prepare for what’s ahead with the braces finishing stages!

This post is sponsored by E&S Orthodontics. All opinions are my own. 

For most tweens and teens, a normal braces total treatment time is approximately 2 years. If starting at an early age, you may to wear braces longer to wait for your baby teeth to all fall out and be replaced by the adult teeth.

But starting early, can also be a good thing to help with self esteem and take advantage of early intervention on any problem areas like overcrowding teeth or creating a more open bite.

Consider starting braces sometime between the ages of 10 and 14.

8 Things to Know When You’re Almost Done with Braces

1. Finishing Elastics- Toward the end of the treatment, before the traditional braces come all the way off, they use finishing elastics. Finishing elastics are little rubber bands that hook to the metal brackets.

They usually zigzag on the outside in between the teeth and connect onto the braces. They help close the bite together and put on the last finishing touches to perfect teeth.

2. Retainer- I did not know this, but after the braces come off, you still have to wear a retainer.

When treatment is over, you get fitted for a retainer for the bottom and top. The retainer needs to be worn for about 8 hours a day to help keep teeth straight. Most people choose to wear them at night.

If you go more then a day or so without wearing the retainers, your upper teeth especially will start to shift back and your retainer will no longer fit anymore.

There are clear aligners available for this step at some orthodontics offices.

3. Retainer Insurance – Because retainers wear out and break, they need to be replaced. For people that grind in their sleep or clench, they can wear out and break faster.

Retainers cost around $250 per each top or bottom. Some practices will offer retainer insurance or give you one free replacement set of retainers – so make sure you ask!

With retainer insurance, you’ll pay one upfront fee to get replacement retainers top or bottom or whole new sets of both a top and a bottom for a period of time, determined by the plan.

Most retainer insurance plans will let you pay in installments. It really helps out with the large surprising cost of having to replace a lost, broken or no longer fitting retainer.

4. Permanent Retainers- This was new to me also. Permanent retainers are little wire bars that are permanently glued behind the lower teeth. They help to keep teeth straight after the braces come off.

They are used in conjunction with the removable retainers. Permanent retainers are mostly used on the bottom teeth to keep your teeth in the desired position.

They use permanent retainers on the top teeth usually only if there is a gap in the front teeth to help keep the gap closed.

5. Whitening- Sometimes after wearing braces for a year or more, teeth can become discolored. A lot of people like to get their teeth whitened after the braces come off.

It’s the perfect finish to a new perfectly straight smile. Orthodontics offices generally offer after braces whitening to make sure your new beautiful smile is looking its best.

6. Teeth Contouring- Some people choose to get teeth contouring done after they get their braces off. This is where they shape the teeth to make sure they are evenly shaped everywhere.

As teeth are moved and straightened to the correct position with braces, teeth can become uneven in their bite or across the front. To make sure your bite is good and your teeth look even and straight across the front, some people like to get contouring done.

It’s definitely an optional service, but just keep in mind that your orthodontist may bring up teeth contouring when the braces come off.

7. Big dental work Issues- If at any time in life you get big dental work done, you’ll need to see your orthodontist again. I’m talking about things like crowns that change the shape of your adult teeth in a big way.

The orthodontist will also likely want to complete panoramic x-rays to get a good look at all the teeth towards the end of wearing braces to help take care of any issues while you’re still making last minute adjustments.

After you get big dental work done, your retainer may not fit anymore. You may need to go be fitted and get a new retainer made.

8. Warning! Keep up with Dental hygiene- I’m sad to report that my teenage son is not very good with dental hygiene. It has caused some issues with his braces treatment.

I even had him watch a video when he first got his braces on about what can happen to your teeth if you do not take good care of them. He obviously didn’t listen.

He was prescribed a special fluoride toothpaste to help with protecting his teeth against cavities and such. There has even been talk about shortening his time with braces on and not completely finishing to perfection, in lieu of making sure his teeth stay healthy.

So if you have braces or will be getting them, make sure that you stay on top of dental hygiene or your teeth could end up worse than before braces.

Our Experience with E&S Orthodontics

My braces journey with E&S Orthodontics has been great. The staff is nice, quick, efficient and knowledgeable. I really appreciated that we didn’t have to go through a two-phase treatment.

The goal of phase braces is to widen palettes or shift teeth that are majorly misaligned, but it means a lot of years in braces or other dental appliances, broken up over a series of years as your child grows up. There are some benefits, and it may work best for some children.

They try to get you in and out as quickly as possible. They really care for their patients and try to make coming to the orthodontist as fun and painless as possible.

They give back to their patients several times a year with free jump parties and food trucks or other events.Their waiting room is always festively decorated and stocked with cookies and coffee.

Orthodontics is a long term commitment. When choosing which orthodontist you’re going to see, choose one like E&S Orthodontics that will give you a great experience on your journey to a  pretty new smile.

Thursday 24th of October 2019

This is awesome! My daughter is about to get braces and I have been doing some reading just so I can be prepared for it as I didn't have braces when I was growing up. Never even thought about post braces let alone retainer insurance!

Tuesday 20th of August 2019

I’ve had my braces off for 3 years now and I still wear my retainer. I can’t wait to see the finished look!

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How I Spent Over RM10k During My Braces Journey

Table of Contents

In my late 20s, I finally decided to act on something I’ve been self-conscious about all my life –  fixing my crooked teeth by wearing braces. The treatment took one and a half years, and I took it off for good last January 2019.

Note: It was fast because I got Damon braces. See  3 Things to Know About Braces Cost in Malaysia for types of braces and cost comparison.

View this post on Instagram RM8500 and 1.5 years later, the treatment is done. I’m no longer a #braceface! 😁 . Google ‘RinggitOhRinggit braces cost in Malaysia’ if you want to find out the price range, including government services (they’re so much cheaper!). Lots of helpful info in the comments section too! . #damonbraces #bracesMalaysia #malaysiabraces #teethstraightening A post shared by Suraya Zainudin (@surayaror) on Jan 6, 2019 at 11:30pm PST

Now that the braces are off, it feels like a distant dream. In a, ‘wow, I can’t believe I went through with it’ way. I thought I’d jot down everything I spent before, during and after my braces journey before I forgot all about it.

I hope this article will help everyone planning to do braces (or going through it now) to plan your budget, and perhaps help in choosing tools to buy/avoid. I’ll divide it into three sections – things I paid before, during and after wearing braces.

Things I Paid for During My Braces Journey – Before

#1 – deposit to my dentist.

My dentist, in Subang area, charged RM8,500 for my metal Damon braces. She asked for RM3,000 in deposit before we proceeded. The full amount is inclusive of:

• Installation
• Monthly adjustments
• 1 x Retainers
• Elastic bands and dental wax

Cost: RM3000

#2 – Teeth scaling and polishing, X-ray and study model

The teeth scaling and polishing was optional, but recommended. The x-ray and study model was compulsory (to make a mould of my teeth, pic below)

Cost: RM510

#3 – Teeth extraction

My dentist charged RM100 per tooth extraction, and four of mine needed to be taken out to make room.

Apparently, some dentists would include the cost of x-ray, study model and teeth extraction in their overall braces package. Mine didn’t, but something worth asking.

Cost: RM400

Things I Paid for During My Braces Journey – During

#1 – painkillers.

The first few months of wearing braces are no joke. It’s so painful, I’m not even going to lie about that. Especially the first few weeks, with all the teeth extraction and when you first get the braces installed, oh my God.

(Don’t let this deter you! Think of the end result!)

I paid for:

• RM30 for painkillers to eat right after the teeth extraction. YES YOU NEED THIS.
• RM8 for antibacterial mouthwash after I complain my teeth extraction was still painful after a week
• A lot of paracetamol. I go the unbranded 40-pills for RM4.45, sold at Guardian. Cheaper than Panadol, works just as well.
• RM0 for additional dental wax from my dentist (to prevent additional cuts while my mouth gets used to the metal rubbing against it)

Cost: Estimated RM35-ish

#2 – Monthly payments to dentist

So my overall cost for Damon braces was RM8500 right. I paid RM3000 in deposit, and every time I come in for monthly adjustments I had to pay RM300, until it’s paid in full. I think my dentist calculated the payment amount based on how long I had to wear the braces because it took roughly 18 months to pay off the whole amount also.

Cost: RM5500

#3 – A water flosser

The most annoying part about my braces journey wasn’t the pain actually. It wasn’t even the payments. It was the  food bits stuck on my braces after meals .

I tried, I really tried, to keep the metal brackets clean with floss and interdental brush and all that (RM12.55 for two 5-in-a-pack Interdental brush (Guardian brand, on sale).

But I finally caved in and bought a water flosser, which is the. best. thing. ever. There are many types – plugged in and battery-powered – and I got this portable version which costs ~RM230 online.

Cost: RM250 ish (you need to buy batteries)

Things I Paid for During My Braces Journey – After

#1 – teeth whitening strips.

I was SO excited to get my braces off. Once I did, I wanted to splurge for a teeth-whitening session, but that would cost me RM999.

So I bought the next-best thing – Crest Whitestrips teeth whitening strips for RM175, containing 20 strips I think. The price between merchant varies so much so do compare. Don’t skimp and buy the ‘unbranded’ ones – you never know what chemicals they put in there! At least the Crest brand is reputable.

Note: You’re supposed to do the home treatment daily until you complete your strips. This varies from person to person obviously, but my teeth get super sensitive and I can’t do the treatment 3 days in a row.

Cost: RM175

#2 – Teeth retainer

If you think your braces journey ends when the dentist takes it off, hahahhaha sorry to disappoint. You have to wear teeth retainers forever.

My dentist actually included 1 x teeth retainer set in her package, but me being a klutz and never use the dedicated casing, I broke that thing less than a year. I had to get another one, which costs me an extra RM400. Haih.

Note: There are many types of retainers so do ask your dentist. Mine is a combination of permanent metal ones + the clear plastic one (pictured). Yours may be different.

If you add up all the costs above, it’ll come up to… RM10,270.

Of course, the bulk of that is the braces package itself. RM8,500 is a big chunk, but I just want to say, I did *not* expect everything else to add up to RM1,770, as of time of writing (please take care of the new retainer Suraya don’t break it again okay).

But overall, I’m very happy with the results, and I’m glad I went on this braces journey. I love smiling now! Before this, I would do the awkward close-mouthed smile, or pose with something covering my mouth, like this lol:

View this post on Instagram #frugalbeauty #makeupmalaysia – using eyeshadow as blusher replacement! #Elianto had this ‘buy one free one’ deal but I just needed to replenish my usual brown eyeshadow so I figured I’ll get the pink eyeshadow to double as blusher and it works lol A post shared by Suraya Zainudin (@surayaror) on Jul 24, 2018 at 10:29pm PDT

View this post on Instagram I went to a place called Saluga Beauty House but there are at least a few others nearby #bangsarvillage area . More satisfied with this #eyebrowthreading session than the fancy ones charging RM35 a pop. Those tend to hard-sell packages to you too 🙄 . Hmm what else is #worthit in #bangsar ya? A post shared by Suraya Zainudin (@surayaror) on Oct 16, 2018 at 4:09am PDT

Again, you can make your braces cost WAY CHEAPER. In my  3 Things to Know About Braces Cost in Malaysia , readers commented that adult braces in government hospital cost around RM1100 only, which is super cheap! But of course waiting time jangan cakap la.

Anyone here currently doing braces now, or took it off? You want to chime in what else you bought while you had it? Share with us in the comments section!

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10 Comments

Thanks for sharing! I’m glad to see your smile more often now 🙂

Whats the teeth retainer for, when do you have to wear it? And where is the picture of end result? 🙂

The teeth retainer is worn FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE because apparently teeth memory is a thing – they will slowly shift back to their original positions (before braces) if not worn! I wear mine at night while sleeping, although my dentist said its better if worn 24/7 aside from eating times.

Re: pic – see my instagram lol instagram.com/surayaror

Hi! Thanks for the article, I just recently got my braces off and have a permanent metal retainer bonded on my upper and lower. However Im worried if it will break loose or break. Have u experienced anything like tht? And if so what is the cost of repair?

Hi Shaylyn, I can answer this! I have permanent metal retainer bonded on upper and lower teeth too. So far, so good. Been a few years without problem.

I am on my 5th month of my self ligating (non Damon cos is effing exp) and my what my initial cost is RM6750, downpayment 1500 monthly 350 for next 15mths. My case is I extracted one molar and one wisdom tooth 7 yrs ago due to cavities on the molar. As my wisdom tooth leaned onto the molar, it has to make way. Time after time my teeth especially the lower row, moved abd the gaps are getting bigger that I can’t deal with that anymore! Dentist consulted – fix the teeth and the do one implant . Implant will happen in another 1.5 yra time I think. I am happy thus far of my journey. I have these :- – lotsa dental wax from shopee – dental picks – interdental brush – Mi dental floss rm 145 only – Panadol – 650mg type( need it everytime after review session) – soft bristle toothbrush- i used Atomy – toothpaste ( combi of regular and whitening) – mouthwash – i used Listerine Lemon and Salt cos its less intense – dental floss – it has a plastic head to help navigate the floss n between of your braces – ceramic scissor – for me to cut my food when i eat out 😄 – travel cup so that i can brush my teeth outside after meal

Thanks for sharing your costs + items bought Pinky! This is informational!

Wow you even bring scissors with you when you order out? I just order soup LOL

Hi Suraya, do you have your wisdom tooth out as well after braces? I heard some dentist recommend taking out your wisdom tooth afterward to avoid wisdom tooth coming out and ruin the alignment. Thanks

Hi Tiffany, I did get 4 teeth taken out, but didn’t get my wisdom tooth pulled out after braces. Follow your dentist’s recommendation

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What NBA scouts have to say about Bronny James as a draft prospect

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Bronny James has declared for the NBA draft while entering the transfer portal, giving him multiple options for the next step in his basketball career.

He could go through the predraft process and return to college armed with an evaluation from NBA personnel folks. Or he could decide that after one season at USC, he’s ready to become a professional.

The latter option, should you simply look at his stats — averages of 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game — might seem ridiculous. But one year after he was named a McDonald’s All-American, there still are plenty of Bronny James fans among scouts.

Three NBA executives and scouts who specialize in college evaluations gave their thoughts, on James’ prospects as an NBA player. What they said could surprise you. The executives and scouts were granted anonymity because they are expected to keep their evaluations confidential and protect the interests of their teams.

The elephant in the room

Invariably when you talk to people about James, you start to have conversations about his father, LeBron , and what drafting the 19-year-old could do for an organization.

Bronny James declares for NBA draft, enters transfer portal

Bronny James declared for the NBA draft and will also enter the transfer portal to maintain flexibility in his basketball future, he said in an Instagram post.

April 5, 2024

“It’s a bad draft and teams might think they can lure LeBron,” one Western Conference scout said. “So owners might take the chance in the second round because it will make them tons of money financially and they’ll sell out arenas.”

Other executives, though, believe the connection to be overblown. While LeBron James can opt out of his contract with the Lakers this summer and become an unrestricted free agent, he’d be leaving more than $51 million on the table.

James, as recently as last postseason, clarified that his “dream” of playing with Bronny in the NBA won’t outweigh what’s best for his son’s growth as a player.

“I’ve done what I’ve had to do in this league and my son is going to take his journey,” James said then. “And whatever his journey, however his journey lays out, he’s going to do what’s best for him. And as his dad, and his mom, Savannah, and his brother and sister, we’re going to support him in whatever he decides to do. So, just because that’s my aspiration or my goal, doesn’t mean it’s his. And I’m absolutely OK with that.”

Scouting the player (not the name)

“If his name wasn’t Bronny James, I would say I thought he’s a late second-rounder who is a draftable two-way [contract],” one Western Conference executive said.

So how could a player who averaged only 4.8 points be considered a real draft prospect? A lot comes down to strengths and what NBA teams value.

“The things he does well help really good teams,” the executive said.

Those things include displaying good athleticism in transition, a high basketball IQ, strong character and a willingness to be an on-ball defender.

“[He’s got an] NBA body and is a solid athlete,” another Western Conference executive said. “Smart player, solid on-ball defender and can maybe become a solid perimeter shooter.”

“Mentality wise, he’s a glue guy,” the other executive said.

James shot only 26.7% from three-point range at USC, but considering his late start after suffering cardiac arrest last July, and the improvement he’s made in his shooting since early in high school, there’s optimism in that part of his game.

“Two years ago, I didn’t think he could play,” one of the executives said. “He was a hard-playing, physical kid. But he couldn’t shoot. He was like a college-player De’Anthony Melton . … But starting with the summer before he got to USC, he really improved his shot.”

The other executive also mentioned Melton when asked for James’ NBA comparison.

There are concerns about James’ size and the type of athlete he is. One executive labeled him as a small shooting guard and guessed he’d measure around 6 feet 2 at the draft combine (USC listed him as 6-4). That executive also thinks James needs a “runway” to fully show his athleticism, whereas some players have more “wiggle” and can showcase their athleticism quicker and in tighter spots.

“I’m thrilled with the improvement he’s made, but I worry he’s always going to be a small shooting guard who can’t get to his spots,” one of the executives said.

The verdict

James, according the evaluators, likely would hear his name somewhere in the middle of the second round and have a real chance to develop into a contributing player.

Some think he’d be targeted for a two-way contract so he could develop in the G League.

“He needs and fits with better players around him where he plays a smaller role,” one scout said. “More of a combo guard right now. The best thing he does offensively is shoot the ball. Willing passer, not a creator, but he moves the ball and makes extra passes within the offense.”

One executive said he didn’t think James would “turn around a program” or franchise, but that his skills pair really well with other high-level players.

His reputation is of a kid who works really hard and doesn’t play with ego or an attitude (some would like to see him be even more aggressive). The numbers might not show it, but James appears to be a draftable prospect.

More to Read

LeBron James on Bronny James’ future: ‘He has some tough decisions to make’

April 3, 2024

LeBron James a month after saying Bronny could play for Lakers right now: ‘Let the kid be a kid’

Feb. 27, 2024

Lakers brush off LeBron James trade rumors and beat Utah

Feb. 14, 2024

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