The problem with braces and bruxism

I went to the orthodontist yesterday, so today i'm feeling the pain. I typically have normal teeth soreness after I have my braces adjusted *just like everyone else*. Unlike most people, I spend most of the night grinding/clenching my teeth (even with my Aquasplint) and the outcome is a disaster.  I got two spacers put on yesterday, which means i'll be back next week to get the actual molar band. I'll have to say that out of this whole hellish experience, I really and truly hate molar bands.  I could definitely cope with the pain better if I didn't grind my teeth at night. It's as though my teeth never have a chance to "settle" from the adjustment because of the constant pressure. I'm tossing back pain killers left and right. My orthodontist also put on the largest and last wire before the surgery and connected all of the molar bands. #ouch

I'm really hoping nothing else goes awry. I've been experiencing heavy nighttime bruxism for the last few weeks. I definitely don't want to anger any of my facial nerves again! ( round 2!)

It's strange to think that my surgery will be in 5 months or so. I'm so ready for all of this to be over. I can't wait to chew food normally, talk without headaches, sleep without disturbances, and so on. :)

I was supposed to have pictures taken of my teeth but, the photographer has apparently gone on vacation for the summer. Typically, in Finland a lot of professionals take an extended holiday (vacation) in the summer (June/July or both). I won't actually see my orthodontist until July 27th. I will also be having my final X-rays taken on the same day! 

I haven't been able to chew my food at all, so it is basically a diet of baby food, mashed things, and smoothies. I hope my teeth settle down soon. My teeth have been shifting a lot recently, and i'm sure they will a bit over the summer too! Below you will find my #summerbraces as I like to call them!

In other news, I finally have been approved to see a physiatrist. This is a doctor who is a nerve, muscle, and bone expert! I hope this Dr. will be able too piece me back together. Unfortunately, i'm still in a 3 month queue. However,  this approval is big news since I was rejected 3 times already. Hopefully, I will be able to get an MRI and continue to move forward with my neck/spine rehabilitation. 

My physical therapist is very happy about the tempur pillow. She says she can see slight improvement in my neck muscles. That's also a win! In the next few weeks I hope to post some recipes I can use for after my surgery ( and possibly now since I can't chew). 

I will continue to update my blog periodically. Once again, thank you for reading!