BRACES --- Ouch!!! --- Is this normal?????

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone,

I am in the very early stages of this whole process (just got braces

on Weds.), and am already a little discouraged. I really could use

some advice and suggestions. I've only had my braces on for three

days, but have yet to experience the adaptation to the bands. I

have become more used to the actual brackets, and other than the

sores in my mouth, that aspect is not concerning to me. However,

the bands in the back of my mouth (particularly on one side) are

digging into my tongue every time I speak or try to eat(not poking

wires, the actual bands). I've bitten my tongue several times while

attempting to talk and eat, and the only slight relief comes with

the wax. I've talked to others who have had braces, and although

they say, " they take getting used to, " nobody else has experienced

the major disfunction and pain they are causing me. I don't know if

the problem stems from my upper jaw (which is too small, and will be

corrected with surgery), compounded by my crossbite. I don't know

what to think, but I'm not sure I can handle this for two years. I

had four teeth out a week and a half ago, took no pain meds, and did

just fine. I think my tolerance level is quite high. This is just

more discomfort and pain than I've ever experienced or anticipated.

Has anyone ever experienced this? Will this really get better, or

does this sound abnormal? Is there anything to alleviate the

symptoms of this? Ibuprofin and pain meds are of no help. I'm at a

loss here. Any advice would REALLY be appreciated. Thanks in

advance....