Having Braces in College

I am 20 years old. I can drive. I can vote. I can buy lottery tickets. I am in college. I have braces. 

I had braces at ten, again at twelve and now at 20. Going away to college is nerve-racking and adding braces to the mix is a new story. I got my braces on going into my sophomore year. I was nervous that nobody else would have braces at college. Going to a smaller college, this assumption is partially true. I have seen only a handful of students with braces. 

Second Time With Braces

When I was younger, I remember being ecstatic when I was told that I was going to need braces. After two rounds of them, due to a shift in my jaw, I was even more excited to get them off. Being older, I cannot say I am as excited as I was when I was younger. Younger me would proudly smile to showcase the colorful bands that outlined each tooth. Now, many photos showcase a closed-mouth smile.

One Month Into My Third Round of Braces

This semester, one of my goals is to find the positives in every situation. While having braces in college might not be ideal, I know future me and my teeth are thanking me for doing it now rather than later. Another blessing I discovered from this is being able to find extra time to see my family. 

Last Wednesday, I made the trip home for an orthodontist appointment. I left after my classes, around twelve, and made the two-hour trip home. Once I got home, I spent about an hour there before going to the orthodontist. I ended up making a whole trip out of this appointment. I played with my dogs, had dinner with my family and worked on homework. I spent the night at my house and planned to leave the next day. 

The next morning, I woke up and had breakfast with my dad. We spent the meal talking about my classes and our upcoming spring break trip. Once we got back home, I loaded my car and got on the road to head back to school. My first class was not until twelve, so I took my time getting back. I grabbed lunch and unpacked things I brought from home in my dorm. After, I hung out in the Atrium for an hour before my first class. It was refreshing to go home and see my family. I am looking forward to going home for spring break to see them and my dogs.

While I do not think I will graciously be thanking my jaw for shifting or the lack of younger me not being diligent with my retainers, I am thankful for the positives that have come out of this situation.