51 Years Old, Open Bite, Overjet: Damon Braces

I really have enjoyed reading about others' experiences with braces here, so I thought I would share my experiences as I go along, in case it's useful to someone else.

Though I am looking forward to straight teeth, my main reason for getting braces is to correct my bite. My teeth only come together in one place currently, and after discussing the situation with my dentist, she suggested I consult with an orthodontist to see if braces could correct the problem.

The first orthodontist I consulted with said I would need jaw surgery to correct the open bite. The second orthodontist (the one my dentist referred me to) said that braces would work, no surgery needed. I went with the second orthodontist.

Here's the details: 51 y.o., and have 2 implants (cracked teeth, too bad to crown), both on lower teeth, one on first molar, one on second molar

Last week, they put "spacers" between the molars on my upper teeth. These are little rubber things that fit between your molars to make a little bit of a space so that it's easier to put bands on. I think that normally they go on the bottom molars too, but because the implants don't move, they didn't put them on mine.

The spacers hurt. Couldn't chew without pain for the first day or two. But the techs in the office said most people find the spacers hurt more than the braces themselves, so hopefully it won't get any worse.

I go on Thursday to get the brackets/bands. Wish me luck!

Yesterday's appointment was to put the top braces on. It didn't hurt, though putting the bands on was super uncomfortable.

Thing I learned: if I have pain (whether braces pain or headache or whatever) over the course of the treatment, I have to use acetaminophen, not ibuprofen. The anti-inflammatories in ibuprofen apparently slow down tooth movement. I did not know that!

They also put spacers on the bottom molars. Not super clear on what they're going to do with the existing implants/crowns.

Going back for the bottom set next Tuesday.

Got the bottom set on and it was less than pleasant, mostly because the teeth are tight together. Placing the band was a bit of an ordeal. But everything has settled in a bit, and it's all fine now.
For anyone with existing dental implants before starting braces, what they did with me is to simply skip them. No bands or brackets. My understanding is that they won't move anyway, so they just leave them as is. Orthodontist said that as we get closer to the end, it's possible that the crowns on the implants might need to be replaced in order to fit better with the repositioned teeth. But he said that doesn't happen very often.
One more note: if you're having trouble with dried out or irritated lips from all the brushing, try a different toothpaste. Apparently, the sulfates in regular toothpaste can be harsh on skin - normally not a problem for regular amounts of brushing, but with increased brushing frequency for braces, it can be too drying. I found one that is "SLS-free" and that has made all the difference. Much happier lips now!
Next appointment in August, and I will get a new wire then.