I got my speed braces put on today. This is the second time I've worn braces. The first time I wore them 23 years ago for two years, but did not understand the importance of retainers, so my teeth gradually shifted back to their current sorry state. I'm now 40 years old and paying for this round myself. Because I have so much crowding, i am not a good candidate for Invisalign, so we are doing metal. New braces are much smaller and more comfortable than they used to be. The orthodontist says I will need them 18 months. I will present my next photo at appointment #2 in March.