Q.
Dear Dr Bohara I came to the website initially as I am interested in the ‘6 month smiles braces’ but due to the complex nature of my problem am not sure they are suitable. I was interested to see that you also had experience working with Oral and Maxillofacial surgery. I am 24 and have an underbite for which an osteotomy has been advised. I also require orthodontic treatment first as my upper jaw is has lost the centre line and my teeth have shifted to one side. This is due to the local hospital orthodontist removing one of my upper canines when I was a child in order to apparently reduce the crowding, but which has now apparently caused further complications. My problem is that I am acutely conscious of my appearance, although I have been repeatedly told by the NHS orthodontist that I am being ridiculous. However hard I have tried to rationalise it I cannot change my feelings. I have always been called names such as ‘Chinny’ and have very little self confidence. I dread the thought of wearing the ‘train track’ braces he has told me I must have as I know that I will have unpleasant comments made from collagues and I cannot simply shrug it off. It may sound stupid but the thought of having to wear such braces for an extended period is something I really don’t feel I can do. However, the situation with my jaw and teeth is worsening all the time and affects my eating as I have an open bite and also, I feel, it affects my speech. I wondered whether lingual braces or the 6 months smile braces would be suitable to have in conjunction with the surgery I probably need. Could you please advise me? Many thanks