Hi all,
I’ve recently been offered orthodontic treatment + jaw surgery on the NHS to correct an overjet and crowding, and I’m trying to decide whether to go ahead.
I’m 32, so the biggest thing playing on my mind isn’t just the surgery, it’s the length of the whole process. I’ve been told it could be around 3 years with braces before and after surgery, which feels like a big commitment at this stage of life.
Functionally, my bite isn’t perfect but I’ve managed fine so far, though I am extremely insecure of my smile. That said, I know the offer is NHS-funded so it’s not purely cosmetic.
I guess I’m trying to weigh up:
Whether the long-term benefits (bite, health, confidence) actually lived up to expectations for people.
How tough the process really is day-to-day (braces as an adult, recovery, etc.).
Whether anyone around my age regretted doing it, or regretted not doing it.
If you were in your 30s when you went through this, I’d really appreciate hearing how you found it and whether it felt worth the time and effort in the end.
Thanks in advance!