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English => General => Topic started by: Boheme on 22. December 2020, 19:35:04 PM

Title: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 22. December 2020, 19:35:04 PM
Part 1: An appointment is made
 
Elise was always described as happy and very active. Always told how talented she was in school and had a lot of friends.
In high school she did every club she could make time for, and in college she was in a sorority and several other activities.  She was fresh out of college and began work as a high school teacher. She was settling into her new rhythm nicely, and loved the cozy apartment she’d rented just inside of town. It was just 20 minutes away from where she grew up.

Around the beginning of summer her first year, Elise began to have a horrible toothache. Her molars were sensitive and she hated how her teeth were beginning to crowd. After having tried everything she could on her own, she searched online for an affordable dr. who would take her meager insurance.

She came across an ad for Hometown Dentistry; practice in the basement of a posh office building. The doctor, Dr. Brandt was a younger man in his 30’s, and very strict. In the dental community, he was seen as a miracle worker orthodontist who had patients that were “difficult” by most standards. Meaning non-compliant, or poor hygiene. Something our Elise would’ve known if she clicked on the orthodontics page.

She filled out the online forms, and was puzzled when a contract came up.

“I _________________ will hereby hand over my treatment to Dr. Brandt to insure my health and safety through my time with him. I understand that hygiene and compliance are very important to my health”. Hmm… SHe shrugged and signed. Why wouldn’t she go to an award winning doctor that did everything from general dentistry to orthodontics?

A few hours later she gets an email with her appointment time. She nervously puts it into her calendar. 


Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 22. December 2020, 21:52:47 PM
Heheheh, very nice start!

Oh yes, teamwork does make the dream work. But it also makes a nightmare work, too.~ >:D
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 22. December 2020, 21:57:26 PM
I was going to be the first one to comment, but didn't manage it.

You have the start to what could be a promising story, but there isn't quite enough of it yet to form an opinion. Give us some more to read so that we have some idea of what the story will be.

My next advice is what I give to all new writers, please label the chapters as you post them so that we all know which it is. Eg.  chapter 1, chapter 2, part 1 part 2, etc.

Also, using a spellchecker before posting is a good idea, since they will catch most of the spelling mistakes that are missed.

I frequently find mistakes in the stories that I write, even after I have gone over them several times, so I know how useful they are.

Now to the really important part. Write the story that you want to write, don't worry about what the rest of us think. If you are not happy with the story that you write, it will show in how the story turns out. Take your time writing it, there is no need to rush to post a chapter until you are satisfied with it.

I would like to add your story to TheArchive as soon as there is more of it. I like to get permission from each writer before I add their stories to my collection.

Braceface2015
TheArchive2018

From a technical standpoint, you have made a very good start. Your spelling is good, your sentence structure is good, and when I ran it through Grammarly, there were only a couple of things that showed up and I didn't think that the suggestions were correct or needed.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 22. December 2020, 22:39:06 PM
I was going to be the first one to comment, but did manage it.

You have the start to what could be a promising story, but there isn't quite enough of it yet to form an opinion. Give us some more to read so that we have some idea of what the story will be.

My next advice is what I give to all new writers, please label the chapters as you post them so that we all know which it is. Eg.  chapter 1, chapter 2, part 1 part 2, etc.

Also, using a spellchecker before posting is a good idea, since they will catch most of the spelling mistakes that are missed.

I frequently find mistakes in the stories that I write, even after I have gone over them several times, so I know how useful they are.

Now to the really important part. Write the story that you want to write, don't worry about what the rest of us think. If you are not happy with the story that you write, it will show in how the story turns out. Take your time writing it, there is no need to rush to post a chapter until you are satisfied with it.

I would like to add your story to TheArchive as soon as there is more of it. I like to get permission from each writer before I add their stories to my collection.

Braceface2015
TheArchive2018

From a technical standpoint, you have made a very good start. Your spelling is good, your sentence structure is good, and when I ran it through Grammarly, there were only a couple of things that showed up and I didn't think that the suggestions were correct or needed.

It's an honor that you would add it and I give full permission to add the future parts of the story to The Archive. I will be labeling the parts to come ❤️
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 22. December 2020, 22:40:17 PM
Heheheh, very nice start!

Oh yes, teamwork does make the dream work. But it also makes a nightmare work, too.~ >:D

I'm glad you like it so far!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 23. December 2020, 00:29:47 AM
Thank you for giving me permission and I appreciate the willingness to label the chapters. I am looking forward to reading your stories.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: kelly-Marie on 23. December 2020, 01:49:21 AM
Hello boheme good start of your story  please do continue with it 
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 23. December 2020, 17:13:03 PM
Hello boheme good start of your story  please do continue with it

Thank you for the kind words! I'm hoping to update in the next week.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: bracessd on 23. December 2020, 17:21:35 PM
Great start, looking forward to more!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 23. December 2020, 18:04:22 PM
Great start, looking forward to more!

I'm glad you like it!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: xxxforce on 25. December 2020, 13:44:36 PM
I'll also say it's a nice beginning, please continue!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 29. December 2020, 23:28:12 PM
Part 2: Root Canals

Elise stood making her hair into a messy bun in her bathroom. She then brushed and flossed her teeth and took a very close look at them. She never really liked her smile, and really hated going to the dentist. She looked at the time and locked up before going to her car. The drive was beginning to feel very familiar to her. She saw a nice office building and was shaking as she parked; surely she was mistaken. It was where she used to go to the orthodontist in high school and middle school.

She shuddered at the memory.

When Elise was 12 her mother took her to see a Dr. Roman, the orthodontist that every one of her friends used, and every one of them hated. He was an old man who was very strict. His treatment room was the same as it had been in the ‘70s probably, and had an open layout. She was often humiliated as he scolded her about not wearing her elastics and her hygiene. Dr. Roman's goal was to have a smile that was perfect and that would be done in a slower fashion to encourage more control as the teeth moved. He ignored when children begged and promise to do better. He would never tell them what he was doing, just their parents.

What made patients especially uneasy was his cheerful disposition during speaking to parents, and how that would change when they were non-compliant.

Headgear was an especially sore subject for Elise. When it was suggested she wear it, she was 14 and just beginning high school. Dr. Roman advised wearing the headgear when she was non-compliant with her rubber bands. She was left a sobbing mess when her mother agreed to have the headgear wired in and springs placed. It added a year to her treatment and it wouldn’t come off until the last three months of braces when she was 16, almost 17.

She swore after moving to college she would never go near Dr. Roman again, and religiously wore her retainer nightly for about a year. During a move, the retainer was lost, and she kept putting off calling until she just shrugged it off. Her teeth looked good still, and there was no way that she was going back to see Dr. Roman.

Present Day:

Elise took a breath and tried to slow her breathing as she walked down that horribly familiar hallway. Her body let out a sigh of relief though when she saw that Dr. Roman wasn't there, but Dr. Brandt had totally remodeled everything. The waiting room had a play area, comfortable chairs to wait in, and a cute little reception window. She walked over and smiled at the receptionist.  She had curly red hair that was long and beautiful and smiled showing a full mouth of banded braces.

K: "Hi, I'm Kara, are you Elise?"

E: I am, thank you!

K: Welcome to our practice. I see that you signed all the forms? Wow, we don’t usually have adults who do that on their own.

Kara looks confused as she looks over the paperwork.

E: I thought it would save time.

Elise sits down and noticed a few patients going in and out of the office. Most looked upset, and a few of the teens had headgear just like she did. "Thank God I'm just here for my toothache," she thought to herself.

The door opened and a beautiful assistant escorted out a teenager with a mouth of metal. She spoke to their parents advising that now she was in their care that her appliances would be wired in and she would come every four weeks. Elise looked down and felt relieved when her name was called.

The hygienist assigned to her had beautiful black hair, olive skin, and wore her hair in a tight bun. Her blue scrubs fit well, and she seemed very friendly as she walked Elise through the door. Her smile was blinding white and showed gorgeous teeth.

“I’m Hannah and I’ll be cleaning your teeth and assisting Dr. Brandt during your time here.” the hygienistst said, leading her down a hall of rooms with closed doors. The back was completely different than she remembered it being which gave her great relief. She and Hannah chatted to her about being a patient of the previous doctor and how nice it was to see so many changes.

Hannah brought Elise to the very back room that was labeled Consult. X-rays were taken, and Hannah began what would be one of the most thorough cleanings Elise ever experienced. She frowned as Hannah scraped her gum line and gripped the chair when her sensitive teeth were scaled.

After 30 mins of cleaning, a tall man in his late 30’s walked in. He stood over Elise who was reclined and getting her mouth rinsed out. “I’m Dr. Brandt, welcome to our practice!” He waved and studied her X-rays then sat at her side with his lap under her head.

“She has two visible cavities, Dr. and needs to improve on hygiene, “ Hannah said while Dr. Brandt pulled up his mask. With a deep voice he smiled behind the mask and spoke, “we’ll get there. Now I hear that you have some sensitive teeth?”

Elise nodded and pointed to her left side where the pain was and answered questions about her dental history. Dr. Brandt looked at her mouth for several minutes and rattled off a lot of numbers and notes to Hannah. She was made to bite a lot and move her jaw certain ways. She was confused but figured he was being thorough.

“Elise, you have two very deep cavities that will require root canals I’m afraid. I also see some more work that we will talk about in a bit.” Elise could only grunt her understanding. A dam and block were placed, and before she knew it Dr. Brandt was drilling. The procedure took two hours; midway Hannah smiled behind her mask. “Dr, Elise said she was a patient of your uncle’s. Isn’t that neat?”

“It is! Orthodontics I assume?” Elise gave a grunt indicating he was correct. “Well, we will have to see how you’ve done since you were a patient last.” Elise tried to object but the dam and drill stopped her.

When Dr. Brandt was done he sat Elise up and typed into a computer stationed in the room. He looked over at her and smiled. “I see that you were given retainers by my uncle...Your parents signed a compliance contract; interesting.”

Elise spoke with a garbled tone due to the numbing. “I wasn’t good at my elastics back then.”

Dr. Brandt scooted his chair over and reclined her once more. Elise’s eyes opened wide as the light was brought down again. "Hannah, can you reschedule my afternoon appointments?"
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: danfan209 on 30. December 2020, 00:45:37 AM
very nice looking forward to the next story
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 30. December 2020, 01:27:29 AM
Ah, this is getting better and better with each chapter.


Oh, something i noticed, in chapter 1, you put that the doctor was in his 60's.

Quote
She came across an ad for Hometown Dentistry; practice in the basement of a posh office building.
The doctor, Dr. Brandt was an older man in his 60’s, and very strict.


However, in chapter 2, he's in his 30's?  ???

Quote
After 30 mins of cleaning, a tall man in his late 30’s walked in.
He stood over Elise who was reclined and getting her mouth rinsed out. “I’m Dr. Brandt, welcome to our practice!”
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 30. December 2020, 03:11:25 AM
Part 1: An appointment is made
 
Elise was always described as happy and very active. Always told how talented she was in school and had a lot of friends.
In high school she did every club she could make time for, and in college she was in a sorority and several other activities.  She was fresh out of college and began work as a high school teacher. She was settling into her new rhythm nicely, and loved the cozy apartment she’d rented just inside of town. It was just 20 minutes away from where she grew up.

Around the beginning of summer her first year, Elise began to have a horrible toothache. Her molars were sensitive and she hated how her teeth were beginning to crowd. After having tried everything she could on her own, she searched online for an affordable dr. who would take her meager insurance.

She came across an ad for Hometown Dentistry; practice in the basement of a posh office building. The doctor, Dr. Brandt was a man in his 30s, and very strict. In the dental community, he was seen as a miracle worker orthodontist who had patients that were “difficult” by most standards. Meaning non-compliant, or poor hygiene. Something our Elise would’ve known if she clicked on the orthodontics page.

She filled out the online forms, and was puzzled when a contract came up.

“I _________________ will hereby hand over my treatment to Dr. Brandt to insure my health and safety through my time with him. I understand that hygiene and compliance are very important to my health”. Hmm… SHe shrugged and signed. Why wouldn’t she go to an award winning doctor that did everything from general dentistry to orthodontics?

A few hours later she gets an email with her appointment time. She nervously puts it into her calendar.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 30. December 2020, 03:12:38 AM



Oh, something i noticed, in chapter 1, you put that the doctor was in his 60's.


However, in chapter 2, he's in his 30's?  ???
[/quote]

@TimeandBrace You're right! Sorry about that. It is fixed
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 30. December 2020, 03:14:59 AM
No worries. Ah, i believe there's a button that'll let you modify the original post?
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 30. December 2020, 03:28:56 AM
I have made the alteration to the copy in TheArchive. It's nice to see that other people are reading the stories and care enough to point out things that they see can be fixed. It makes us all better writers.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 30. December 2020, 04:38:39 AM
I have made the alteration to the copy in TheArchive. It's nice to see that other people are reading the stories and care enough to point out things that they see can be fixed. It makes us all better writers.

It really does! Details make all the difference
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 30. December 2020, 19:01:38 PM
Part 3: Contract Clarity

Elise tried to sit up on her elbow but Hannah gently pressed her back into the chair. “I’ll be right back Dr.” The hygienist said winking at Elise.

E: “Dr. Brandt, I thought that we were done? I can’t possibly take someone else’s appointment r-really.”

DB: “No no, you lay back. We’re just talking yeah? You and I can discuss these contracts of yours.”

Dr. Brandt picked up a tablet from the computer station and fussed with it a bit before handing it to Elise. Her hands shook as she read it, and just so it really sunk in, Dr. Brandt read from the compliance section of each contract.

Original Agreement:
 Any and all appliances are to be wired or cemented in.
If a relapse does occur within 15 years, the office will place her on the relapse treatment program. (This cost her parents an extra $500.00)
If the patient goes anywhere else to seek orthodontic treatment for themselves, the parents will be sued for the cost of braces plus damages. ($3,500)

Adult Orthodontic Compliance Program
I will submit to any and all treatment suggested by Dr. Brandt and staff.
I will attend all appointments. If I am late or break my braces I will be fined $200.00 and have time added to my treatment.
I have chosen the compliance program which means that I will only have Dr. Brandt and any of his future partners tend to any and all dental needs, including general dentistry and or oral surgery.
I have proven to be non-compliant and have brought myself here to force what is in my best interest in regards to my oral health.
If I do want out of the compliance program, I will have to pay the cost of treatment plus a penalty fee of $500.00. This penalty and other cost have to be paid in one lump sum and I must schedule a two-hour appointment to removal all orthodontia. (Or $5,500 for Elise)
I understand that orthodontics can take time to work, and depend on my cooperation. My treatment can take up to 10 years to complete.
I have no say in what methods are used.

Permission to Treat
It is my understanding that Dr. Brandt’s office and treatment models have been created to help patients who were having trouble under normal orthodontic and dental practices. This includes procedures, appliances, braces, etc. We will work hand in hand to reach a pristine level of hygiene and aesthetics. After all, teamwork makes the dream work.

A tear escaped Elise’s eyes. Why in the bloody hell did she not read this contract through? She wasn’t a problem patient! Surely, she would just need a retainer, right? At most, she would need braces for a year or something.

Elise’s voice was small as she tried to reason with Dr. Brandt. “Dr. I didn’t realize that you only treated patients with issues um...committing. I-I don’t want to impose on your other patients.”

Dr. Brandt smiled as the molds of her mouth were brought in by Kara. Why were there three molds? Dr. Brandt brought all three over. “Elise, all of my new patients do not leave until the problems they come in with are addressed. “ He positions the tray so Elise can see it clearly. “You signed the contracts, so unless you can pay to get out of them, I will address your issues.”

She numbly nodded and a few tears trickled as Dr. Brandt talked on. Hannah rescheduled everyone for Dr. Brandt’s next free day. “These were your teeth age twelve, this one is your teeth at the end of your treatment with Uncle Roman, and this is today.” He makes a disappointed face and scoots to the right of his patient. The chair adjusts and he picks up a mirror. Hannah comes back in and quietly sits at the computer station ready to type.

DB: “Okay, Elise open, please.”

She swallows hard and shakes her head no, still in shock. Why would she do this to herself?

DB: “Listen, dear. I don’t want to force you to open that mouth of yours, but I will. We’re on the same team, here Elise.” 

Elise opens and silently cries as Dr. Brandt lays out a treatment plan to Hannah who happily typed. She couldn’t understand what he was talking about. “You know Elise if you would’ve just worn that retainer we could have avoided this. I’m very disappointed. “ Elise tries to say sorry, but no one can understand her. The Dr. looks to Hannah and points somewhere that Elise can’t see. “Hannah, I need you to get this for me, and if Kara hasn’t left yet, I need her too.” Elise cries harder and Dr. Brandt just moves the tray over her chest.

“Oh, Elise, I know shh… It’s frustrating to let yourself down. We’ll get it right this time. You’ll do great today, yeah?” Before she can answer, Hannah holds a gas mask to her nose and forces her to breathe. Kara is there to hold Elise’s hands to her chest. She tries to soothe her as a lips spreader is forced. “Sweetie it’s Kara. Shhh...You’re going to have such a great smile. I was in your shoes a few years ago.”

Dr. Brandt looks at her mouth more and tries to fit an appliance in as Elise slips into a chemically induced high. She notices that Kara stays to hold her hands as Dr. Brandt forces bands on her top teeth. Elise then tries to plead one last time. But it’s useless.

E:”I Uh eeeacher, eaase” (I’m a teacher, please!)

DB: “Then you will be a great example for those kids you teach! It’s just June, who knows how far you’ll be by September!”

A blue light flashes here and there and Elise has trouble keeping track of time, or how much is going into her mouth. Hannah smiled; she loved watching her husband take care of those who can’t take of themselves. She passed him a Herbst and couldn’t help but blush. How did she get so lucky?

Elise was once again a sobbing mess in this office, but instead of an angry little girl, she was a 26-year-old new teacher who now had a mouthful of metal.


After three hours of adjusting, gluing, and crying, Hannah held a mirror for Elise so that the damage could be seen. Dr. Brandt slowly brought her back to reality with oxygen. Pulling back her lip he pointed to each addition to her smile.

Dr. Brandt: “We have a herbst, bands on all teeth except those front ones. You decide if you get the rest in bands or they stay as brackets. You also have a bottom expander and these” He moved the mirror so she could see the bite blocks on the backs of her top teeth. He then without warning cupped her chin and turned the expander twice. Elise whimpered and slid down a little. “Elise I want this turned in the morning and before bed”.Dr. Brandt smiled a little at this and they let her sit up.

Kara walked her out, and at the door turned to her and warned, “You have to be back here in four weeks. I suggest you read what you’ve signed.”

E: “How long will my treatment be?”

 Her hand flew to her mouth hearing her garbled voice

Kara::” We don’t talk time frames here, Elise. We just operate on teamwork. You get better with flossing, okay?”

When Elise left the office it was 5pm. She’d spent her entire day at the dentist and was sore and exhausted. She was tempted to call her mom for comfort, but she felt like her mom would just be disappointed in her. She was a tough lady, and wasn’t the warmest.

When Elise had braces as a teen and would sob because of the severity of the treatment, her mom would roll her eyes and tell her to deal. After all, she and her dad did as kids.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 31. December 2020, 01:01:28 AM
Very nice. Heheheh, this is only the beginning of the nightmare/dream depending on who you ask, i'd say.~

(Ooh, headgear round 2?~ ;) )

Hmm, one thing to keep in mind, is that stories that involve.. "involuntary" or.. "forced".. braces tend to be removed/locked, sadly. :(
It's a fine line between contract/legal/voluntary/ what you've got here,(Which is well written)  and something that breaks forum rules.. Just be careful, okay?


I like where this is going, of course.~ Lots of potential.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 31. December 2020, 01:41:00 AM
If it does end up violating forum rules, I am always willing to add the rest of the story to TheArchive. I am more flexible because my collection is not directly linked to a website like most others.


Braceface2015
TheArchive2018
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 31. December 2020, 02:46:16 AM
I knew I was probably towing a line... This will absolutely be rectified smoothly :) if you have an idea message me
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 31. December 2020, 02:48:26 AM
I knew I was probably towing a line... This will absolutely be rectified smoothly :) if you have an idea message me

Well, it's a good story so far, don't get me wrong, just something to keep in mind.  :)
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: clatta on 31. December 2020, 22:35:12 PM
This is great so far! I can't wait to see where it goes.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 03. January 2021, 01:10:30 AM
Part 4: Pino Dreams


It was dark in her apartment when her phone was ringing. She felt for it and in doing so was successful in knocking over an empty bottle of wine. She groaned and put her hand to her head. Yep, definitely hung over. When she answered the phone a perky voice was on the other line.

K: "Good morning Elise this is Kara with Dr. Brandt's office. Did you have time to come in a little early today? We have a cancellation and it was the appointment just before yours. With you being a new patient we want to take our time and make you comfortable."

Elise was so confused. She looked at her phone quickly seeing it was just the morning after making her appointment. It had been an awful dream! She sighed in sweet relief licking her smooth teeth then rubbed her eyes as she spoke.

E: "Of course. I will absolutely be there."

She got off the phone with Kara and then took a shower. It wasn't the first time she'd polished off a bottle of pino while binging on a good show, and she knew it wouldn't be her last. The dreams from these little episodes were always quite intense. She checked her phone again and took ibuprofen as and drank gatorade then spent the rest of the morning cleaning herself up and relaxing. 

She was feeling so much better as she drove to Dr. Brandt's office. Unlike her dream, the GPS lead her to an office building that was just downtown and it was very nice. She opened the door and saw a cozy office that had some dated furniture in the waiting room. Kara was at the reception desk like in her dream and her picture on the practice's website. She signed in and sat taking in her surroundings. “No Dr. Roman..thank goodness,” Elise thought to herself.

There was a man there playing on a phone. In the background, she heard a bit of what she thought was crying. A teen boy was escorted out by a beautiful man in his 30s. The man had jeans and an old-fashioned dentist's shirt that buttoned to the neck and the name tag read Dr. Brandt. He pointed to the poor teen's mouth as he spoke.

DB: “As you can see we do force participation in the treatment here with bands and older appliances that force Alex to be compliant in treatment this time. If he does as asked I will use something other than headgear after his 6th adjustment in 6 months."

The dad thanked him, and Dr. Brandt walked to reception. Kara smiled up at him then pointed at Elise who was pretending to play on her phone and wishing her feet would move so she could leave.

Dr. Brandt smiled a perfect blinding smile and went to her. He held out his hand and Elise gave him a firm handshake. "Elise, thanks for accommodating us. I'm Dr. Brandt, and my assistant Hannah and I ready for you dear." She sheepishly followed the young doctor looking around the office that was small and very clean. She was taken to a private room that had an older fashioned dental chair. There were models of appliances and braces with patient’s before compliance and after compliance photos.

The assistant Hannah got x-rays of Elise’s teeth then got her situated in the chair. Dr. Brandt then took photos of her mouth and laid out tools. He smiled down at her and once the chair was reclined, she was given sunglasses and a bib.

Dr. Brandt pressed down Elise’s chin gently and started to immediately do a check-up. “Elise, with it being your first appointment I like to fix any issues you may have with your teeth this first appointment and get full records.”  She nodded and gave a half-hearted grunt. She gripped the chair as Dr. Brandt’s explorer stuck into her sore tooth. Dr. Brandt sighed as his pick stuck several more times.

Dr. Brandt then began to rattle off a lot of terms to Hannah who typed and then began to clean her teeth. Dr. Brandt started to look at paper work as Hannah roughly cleaned Elise’s sore teeth.

DB: “Elise, you have five cavities. The one causing trouble will, unfortunately, need a root canal, so does the one next to it. Hannah, let’s get her set up with that.”

Before Elise could relax, q-tips were being placed against her bottom left molars. Dr. Brandt scooted so that Elise’s head was on his lap. She looked up at him scared with large blue eyes, and she closed them tight as he injected lidocaine.

She was sat up and Hannah gave her a mirror. Hannah smiled showing full banded braces and a maze of elastics. Dr. Brandt scoots to Elise’s side and encourages her to look at her teeth. “Elise dear, I noticed that your bite is really off. Smile big for me. “ She does so and sees that her molars aren’t setting right.. “Do you get headaches? It seems you had braces before.”

She drooled a little bit and Hannah took the mirror as Dr. Brandt reclined the beautiful Elise. “Hannah, let’s get these teeth fixed up and I’ll talk to Miss Elise about our options for her in a moment.”

The root canals and fillings weren’t very comfortable and during them Elise found herself tearing up once or twice. She could also hear another woman bringing in tools and setting something up. When the chair was sat up, Dr. Brandt was pulling off his gloves. He then moved a computer screen so she could see it.

Elise held her cheek and sighed, “do I need more work done, Dr.?” Elise chuckled some hearing her numb mouth attempt to make words.

Dr. Brandt smiled, “As I pointed out, your bite is really off. Your paperwork says that you had Dr. Roman as an orthodontist. I know from personal experience that he sees that retainers are worn. Did you go through with your follow-ups with him?”
Elise teared up and shook her head no. She told him of her experience and didn’t notice Dr. Brandt looking through her file more.

“Elise, I want to fix this for you. I see that you filed a waiver for orthodontics; were you wanting to fix your bite and maybe straighten those bottom teeth out?” Elise looked down at her shoes as the pain from her dental work set in.

“What does that look like, Dr? I don’t want to have it be like last time with Dr. Roman.”

Dr. Brandt smiled, trying to be reassuring. “Well, we are a compliance-based practice which means metal braces and I will use appliances. Open best you can.”

She opens for him and he looks and gives diagnosis. “I would place a full set of braces top and bottom. We would start with a herbst then go from there with treatment. Elise this would help a lot with jaw problems down the road, and help you to get less cavities because your teeth will be straightening out up front.” She nodded and sighed.

E: “Dr, how long would treatment be?”

DB: “ We don’t talk time tables here, but I bet it won’t take too long.”

E: “No headgear?”

DB: “I will never promise timelines or appliances needed or not needed. I know that you’re an adult, but I believe that patients, whether teen or adult do better when the Dr. takes full control. Tell you what, we have tortured you enough today. Here’s my card and if you need anything at all, you text me day or night. You’d make a great adult orthodontic case for my site.”

Elise practically leaped from the chair and half-listened as Hannah explained after care to her. Dr. Brandt waved at her on the way out and looked at Kara their young receptionist. “I do hope that I can get her for a public case. Come on you, let’s look at getting that expander adjusted.” She walked back to the chair as Hannah locked the office.

Kara was 25 years old and was a long term compliance patient. When she was 17 her mother took her to an orthodontist who got so frustrated with her that he dismissed Kara as a patient after a year when she was referred to Dr. Brandt who has been her orthodontist for the last seven years. She sobbed as she saw Dr. Brandt uncover a tray holding a mountain of metal.

Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 03. January 2021, 11:15:57 AM
I like how you did that. It was very nice how the dream was so on the edge and her actual appointment was gentle.

The ending leaves us wondering what will be next.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 03. January 2021, 19:03:59 PM
I like how you did that. It was very nice how the dream was so on the edge and her actual appointment was gentle.

The ending leaves us wondering what will be next.

Thank you!!!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: MagnetMouth on 11. January 2021, 17:23:55 PM
Excellent story! Keep up the good work
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: prahm on 11. January 2021, 21:25:23 PM
I’m looking forward to Kara’s treatment
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 13. January 2021, 22:19:21 PM
I’m looking forward to Kara’s treatment

Oh, I have plans for her, the poor thing.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 13. January 2021, 23:13:28 PM
Part 5: The Worst Case Scenario

Dr. Brandt stroked Kara's cheek that was wet with tears. "Shhh... it's okay yeah? We're just going to look then choose what to use. I think we may be getting to the end yeah? Now I just need you to open for me love." Kara sniffed and opened allowing Hannah to place a lip spreader.

Dr. Brandt looked at his handy work and nodded then picked up a lower expander and began to install it. He and Hannah ignored Kara's pleading for him not to do an expander again. "Kara darling, I've made your top jaw a little too wide.. let's have the bottom match up. I will turn it every morning before we open, okay?" Kara nodded as silent tears stained her cheeks.  "Kara this is the last turn of the top expander. I'll keep it in for a few months for retention". He then picked up a forsus appliance. Kara had grown to have quite the overbite in her almost decade of treatment. Her mother allowed Dr. Brandt to experiment with different appliances on her, and now he had to fix the damage done by them.

DB: "Let's switch her to brackets, Hannah.  I think that she's ready."

H: "Yes, Dr. would you like power chains?"

DB: "Maybe next appointment. Let's definitely do wire ligatures."

They worked hours on poor Kara. She hadn't had actual brackets since she was 17 and was elated to actually see parts of her teeth. The worst part however, was that her teeth had several cavities from being banded so long. She was immediately scheduled for hours of fillings to happen that weekend.

A week after her appointment, Elise was sitting at her computer researching headaches being connected to jaw alignment. She sighed realizing it was an actual thing, and that she may have to fix it. She wasn't married or dating so it's not like there was anyone to impress, but she also wanted to date some.

"Maybe it won't look so bad", She thought scrolling through the internet looking at adults with braces. Her ex-boyfriend got them when he was 30 to fix his front teeth, and only wore them a few months. Maybe her treatment could be like that too.

She looked at the website for Dr. Brandt and read the orthodontic plan. "We work with patients to give them a smile and health that will last a lifetime. Team work makes the dream work and our patients are proof!"

She wrote a text to Dr. Brandt asking if she would have to wear bands or brackets and what treatment would look like. It's just asking, right?

Dr. Brandt text her back within minutes telling her to come in the next day at 11 a.m. as he didn't like giving treatment plans without the patient in front of him.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 01. February 2021, 16:31:04 PM
Part 6: Name on the line please

Elise found herself on her day off laying horizontal and looking around the room as Dr. Brandt looked in her mouth. A full orthodontic exam was carried out, and when he was done he sat her up but not all the way.

DB: Elise, I think that with braces and a herbst that we can make those headaches go away. If you decide to go through with treatment, it'll be in line with the adult voluntary compliance plan.

E: w-what's that?

She doesn't notice the spacers That Hannah was pouring out onto the tray at her chest.

DB: Well, we don't do ceramic braces or invisalign. You'd begin with regular brackets on your front teeth top and bottom and all your molars would be fitted with bands. This is only so we can anchor any appliances we see fit, or may be use for anchorage. I would also like to document your treatment and not use your name and face.

Elise nodded and put her hands into her hoodie pocket.

E: When do we do it? I know you won't mention time frames, but I'm a teacher so I wanted to make sure it wouldn't interfere.

Dr. Brandt nodded as an impression was taken. Hannah cleaned Elise up then Dr. Brandt rolled his stool so that he could face her.

DB: Absolutely understandable. I know that with braces it can be a rough start, but I also know that your treatment will whiz by if you're compliant. I will do my best to make your treatment meet your effort.

Elise bit her lip and let out a sigh..This would benefit her health, and Dr. Brandt wasn't forceful.

E: What the hell, let's do it.

Dr. Brandt and Hannah nodded and smiled. Kara the receptionist was brought in a thick contract.

K: This is your treatment contract. I will make copies for you while you get started. Sign on the line please.

Elise did as told and felt nervous. "Get started?" She asked as Dr. Brandt picked up a mirror.

DB: Spacers and brackets today and then in a week you come in for a two hour appointment for placement.

E hesitated and then let the doctor begin. He shoved in 12 spacers total, and the brackets he placed were very large. Elise made a small face when he placed a wire and the discomfort from the spacers set it.

DB: You are all done my dear. Just ibuprofen for discomfort. Don't floss where those spacers are.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: prahm on 02. February 2021, 23:54:43 PM
Looking forward to the rest of the treatment
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Bryce on 03. February 2021, 17:03:32 PM
Always enjoy your writings.  I enjoy the other character development also, gives it a wide lense view. Keep it up.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: caster72401 on 10. March 2021, 15:28:13 PM
This was getting good, I hope you will continue!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 19. March 2021, 04:01:10 AM
Wouldn't mind seeing this continued, yes.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: ortho218 on 22. March 2021, 21:28:37 PM
please continue :)
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 06. April 2021, 05:58:10 AM
Part 7: Awesome.

I do apologize for the wait. I write for my job too, so it's been a little crazy.


***

The week with just her spacers and brackets up front had been really weird for Elise. She had to go to her school to clean up and decorate her classroom, and and hour didn't go by without someone poking in their head and gasping at her new smile. She felt humiliated, and very self conscious by the time for her next appointment came.

Her hands shook as she sat in Dr. Brandt's waiting room. She heard sobbing from the back, and soon tears were appearing in her own eyes as Hannah the assistant from last time came to the door calling her name.

H: Nervous for today?

Elise nods as she's lead back to a chair. She sits and sees that the tray is covered and that there is a gas tank at the back of the chair.

E: w-was that tank always in here?

Hannah ignores the question and smiles as the bib is placed around Elise's neck. Dr. Brandt comes in and plops down her file on the table behind them. He pulls on his mask and black gloves as Hannah reclines Elise.

Dr. Brandt smiled behind his mask, the light behind him almost putting him in silhouette. He wanted to make sure that Elise was comfortable for this very long appointment today.

Dr. Brandt placed the gas mask on Elise's nose and Hannah turned the gas up. Elise's eyes shot open and she tried to wiggle away.

Dr. Brandt cooed to her, making her calm some. "Elise, this is just to help with nerves. We always use it when we have a lot of bands to place. All you have to do is breathe through your nose and relax. Hannah and I will do all the tough stuff"

Elise took a few breaths and began to calm down as her eyes drooped but never closed. Hannah smoothly was able to place a retractor, as Dr. Brandt began shoving on the first of several bands. The ones closer to the front had brackets on them. Elise giggled a bit as they worked.

"My teeth will be pretty now?" She asked, feeling the full effects of the gas as quickly her smile became more and more metallic.

Hannah smiled rubbing her hand and nodded, "Yep and in a few years your teeth will be perfect!"

Dr. Brandt and Hannah chatted away for hours as a herbst appliance was placed. The massive appliance caused Elise to give a confused look, but the gas made her not care.

When she was given color choices for her ties, she chose silver, and she began to wince in discomfort as the nitrous surging through the mask turned into oxygen. Hannah held a mirror above her face after Dr. Brandt clipped the wires in the back. "Anything poking, Miss Elise?" He asked, sitting her up. Elise shook her head no as fat tears started to roll down her cheeks.

The herbst made her look like a chipmunk in her opinion, and she couldn't believe how much metal seemed to be in her mouth. She was struck silent and put the mirror down on the tray that was connected to her chair. When Dr. Brandt let her up, he walked her to Kara who had considerably smaller braces than the last time that Elise had been in.

"Alright, Elise. You call with any questions...ibuprofen for pain, and be sure to practice talking with that herbst okay? I'll see you in six weeks." He patted her shoulder as Kara pulled up the office's calendar. "You did great today!"

Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 11. July 2021, 20:59:36 PM
Part 8: I changed my mind

Elise's first day of school with her herbst appliances and bands was rough. She'd worked 5 weeks total on her speech and making sure that her teeth were clean and well taken care of. She wanted her teeth to remain healthy underneath her braces, after all.

A lot of students supported her, but she found it difficult to speak without sucking back drool. The brackets she had on her front teeth were a lot larger than the ones that the students wearing braces in her classes had. How could she feel so insecure in front of a room of teenagers?

Back at the office, Kara was in the chair as Dr. Brandt took a look and smiled behind his mask. Kara's eyes grew wide as she knew that this was never a good thing.

"Kara, I'd like to speed up your treatment even more. How does getting these off in six months sound?" His long term patient nodded quickly as the chair was adjusted and he brought out metal springs.

"I know that these aren't fun, but I'm putting them in so that you can have the jaw movement we need to get these off sooner rather than later. Then we can start you training to assist me." The doctor attached the large springs on either side of Kara's mouth, going from the top backmost molar, to the bottom premolars. She winced and gasped here and there as wire ligatures were placed. When she returned to the reception window to begin the day, there was already a patient at the window ready to sign in.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: bracessd on 12. July 2021, 17:32:47 PM
Good job!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 12. July 2021, 19:30:11 PM
I've added the latest chapter to TheArchive.

I'm glad to see that you have continued to work on the story.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 12. July 2021, 23:03:48 PM
Part 9: The first adjustment

Elise's first six weeks in braces was rough. Her mouth ached constantly, and her speech was a whole other matter. She made sure to explain things slowly to students and use as many hand outs as possible so that they could read instead of her constantly talking like before. The only problem now was that her jaw seemed to be more out of alignment than before. She couldn't determine if her mind was playing tricks on her, or it was just part of the process.

At her first adjustment, she signed in and greeted by Kara who smiled widely showing less metal. The appointment she'd made was early morning on a Saturday. She was surprised to hear the office opened at this time, but she gladly took the appointment.

Being the only one in the waiting room made her really nervous. Her knee bounced up and down while she heard drilling which got louder as the door to the rest of the office opened. It was Hannah who held her file and was smiling.

"Hey Elise how was the first six weeks with everythng in?" Elise sighed as they walked to a room with two rows of chairs. The chairs were empty except one which had a young college man sat in it, gripping the armrests. Dr. Brandt was trying to comfort the young adult as he worked.

"Todd, we need to wire it in. I know it's hard having braces in college, but that's your choice. Now, you're going to have this the next year, so I suggest you get used to it. " The young man had tears rolling down his eyes as Dr. Brandt worked. Todd was brought in by his dad the school year before when he refused to wear the appliances prescribed to him by previous orthodontists. Todd had no clue that this fully compliant plan would have him in braces for about five years.

Elise's view of Todd disappeared as Hannah reclined her and placed a bib. She tensed some hearing Hannah fill the tray with tools that she couldn't see.

"Elise, are you having any issues? Anything come loose?" Elise nodded and sighed.

"L-like I said I'm a teacher so I need to speak a lot. I practice, but I'm still having issues." Hannah nodded and removed the wires from her mouth.

Before she knew it, Dr. Brandt was in view pulling on new gear. He smiled while pulling up his mask. Hannah pointed the light to Elise's mouth and spoke. "She's still having trouble talking still."

Dr. Brandt nodded as he took a big look. "Well, practice makes perfect. Hmm...this herbst is doing great. I do see that your lower jaw is coming forward to fix your overbite which is great, so I'll keep it until next visit. Let's work on these front teeth. Hannah, can I have both expanders please?"

Elise's eyes went wide and she tried to talk as Dr. Brandt slid the expanders in and took pictures. He then began to glue them in. "Elise, I know that these aren't the most fun, but you're going to have the most perfect wide smile and no headaches before you know it. I want you turning those expanders every night. " Hannah holds a mirror above her mouth so that Elise can see. "So, you will turn the key like so " He gives two turns on each and Elise gasps in pain as he does. Her feet move some giving away her discomfort.

Dr. Brandt then began to admire his work. Elise was in tears at this point, feeling stunned as her mouth felt so full. "Hannah, bring me a thicker wire. " Elise's shaking her head no was ignored as the doctor worked to finish up the adjustment.

What Elise couldn't see was a woman walking in and having a seat in the consult room which was just down the hall. She was with her husband, who had been pressuring her to fix her teeth.



 







 
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 13. July 2021, 04:52:51 AM
Hehehe, Ominous..


It's great to see this continued!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: napacaster on 13. July 2021, 05:38:08 AM
This is great! Thanks!!!!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: ksmooth on 13. July 2021, 06:48:06 AM
Boheme, your writing is amazing!  You would be awesome to rp with

Thank you for your contributions!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 13. July 2021, 11:35:31 AM
Oh, two updates within such a short time, thanks for writing and sharing!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 13. July 2021, 21:02:51 PM
Oh, two updates within such a short time, thanks for writing and sharing!

Thank YOU for the kind words. I am a writer by trade, so sometimes it's hard to do for "fun" lol. I am so happy you're enjoying it.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 13. July 2021, 21:30:33 PM
Part 10: Cora's treatment

Cora was sitting in the consultation room with her husband and her hands were shaking. For years she'd complained about jaw issues and for years had been told by dentist after dentist that she would only be able to fix it with braces and to see an orthodontist.

Her husband Jared was Kara's uncle and had grown quite tired of his wife's moaning and groaning. The couple had just moved back to his home town, and it had been almost ten years since he'd seen his sister (Kara's mom). They'd met for dinner last week, and Kara's mother went on and on about her daughter's job at the "top orthodontist" in town.

He was very aware that Dr. Brandt was dedicated to his work and that he never stopped unless the job was done. That the Dr. worked for the patient's "own good" and offered general dentistry and orthodontics. So, he nagged his wife into the appointment after making her listen to a sunny review from Kara's mom. So, this Saturday morning here he sat with his young wife laid in a dental chair as x-rays, molds, and pictures were done. They'd been to several consults over the years, and this was the first one that had gotten this far.

Dr. Brandt came in and smiled shaking Jared's hand and then waving to Cora as she had an impression tray in her mouth. This made them all chuckle. "Don't mind me" the jovial doctor said as he washed hands and geared up. "You know, we just love Kara. She's very sweet, and always makes the patients feel so at ease. She's almost done with her treatment, too. I'm very proud of her."

Hannah smiled removing the tray and wiping off Cora's mouth. After rinsing her out, she sat the chair up but just slightly.

Cora's stomach dropped as Dr. Brandt positioned himself to do her exam. She didn't understand why there were so many tools all laid out and why she needed so many records this first appointment. She swallowed thickly as she spoke about her jaw.

"In high school I was in a car accident and my jaw was hit. I've had pain since, and it's only getting worse. I understand that braces are really the only way, but I'm afraid I've waited way too long, and I'm so bad about brushing my teeth. Hell, when I was a teenager I never even wore my retainer after my braces came off. " Jared placed a calming hand on his wife's knee as Dr. Brandt nodded and aimed the bright light".

Dr. Brandt tapped her chin, and Cora opened, allowing a very thorough exam that seemed to last forever. "Cora, Jared, because you're family you'd be offered a 25% discount if you sign up for full compliance. This means that you get cleanings every three months, and that you only have fixed appliances."

Jared cleared his throat seeing his wife start to get nervous. He could hear in his voice that she wanted to leave.

"I don't know, d-do we have to decide today?"

Jared had finally had enough. He huffed and looked at her putting his foot down. "You agree to this today, or I take you to an oral surgeon next. You're in pain, and you're not taking care of yourself. Come on. What does treatment look like, Dr?"

Dr. Brandt gave a warm smile, and handed the contract to Jared with a wink. Jared read it over and took out his wallet as Dr. Brandt explained. He also signaled Hannah over to take his card and watch him sign the contract while his distracted wife listened.

"I would suggest to start with full metal braces top and bottom with an expander on top. We will go from there. I do not make promises about time or appliances, but I will tell you that you will be pain free when we are done, and you will love your smile. The time you wear them is completely dependent on you. For my anxious patients I start immediately to rip the band-aid off."


Should Cora have her own story, y'all?









Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 13. July 2021, 22:43:53 PM
I think it's more interesting to have the various perspectives in the one story, and to see how the characters all interact. If you think Cora would have enough to work with her own story, then go for it.~
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: duncombec on 13. July 2021, 23:31:34 PM
Great writing so far - as to whether you should split the stories, that's really up to you. Sometimes it can be easier to split the stories and keep each set of characters in one place, but sometimes additional characters add to the flavour.

Personally, I'm terrible for adding lots of side characters and then getting lost as to where I got up to with each of them, so I've taken to writing "branches of a tree" - stories that link into a common theme.

Basically, whatever works best for you as the author!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: kelly-Marie on 14. July 2021, 04:57:14 AM
I think you should give care her own story  think it will be clearer that way
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: napacaster on 14. July 2021, 06:15:36 AM
If you are up to it, I think Cora should have her own story. Seems like a great start to what might be a long and difficult treatment.

 
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 15. July 2021, 14:49:12 PM
Here is my recommendation. If Cora is going to interact with the main storyline, she should be included in the original story. If she is just a side character who doesn't matter to the main story, give her a story of her own.

Even if she does interact in a meaningful way, you may want to tell her side of it in a separate story.

I don't know what you plan to do in your story, so I can't, nor will I, tell you what to do. Duncombec is right, this is your story to tell the way that you want.

Whatever you decide, I am glad that I can read it and add it to TheArchive.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 17. July 2021, 12:16:09 PM
Maybe include Coras story here? It might be easier to keep track. Thanks again for sharing your story!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 19. July 2021, 21:18:03 PM
Part 11: Cora and Elise

Jared took Cora's hand in his and lovingly stroked it. "Sweetie, we're doing this treatment. You saw how nice Kara's smile is, and that took no time at all!"

Cora was embarrassed and felt like a child who was being scolded so with reluctance she nodded. "Okay, I'll do it."

A smiled and the chair was dropped back quickly with Jared never letting go of Cora's hands.

Dr. Brandt smiled and began immediately installing Cora's braces only to have the woman cry some nervously as spacers were placed between her front teeth. "Cora, I'm going to do bands on all your teeth due to your non-cooperative past. I will also put your husband in charge of your expanders. They need to be turned twice a day every day." Hearing about Jared being in charged made Cora's eyes widen and she let out a small whimper.

By the end of the appointment, her lips puffed over her new banded smile, and Jared supported Cora as he made an appointment with his niece. Cora tried to keep composure and sighed as she tried smiling at Kara. "How long have you had your braces, Kara?"

Kara's face took on a furious blush. I had braces like yours for over 5 years, and now I'm onto these. Don't worry, your treatment will go fast if you're compliant."

The words sent Cora into a fury and she cried into her husband's chest as the adjustment appointment was made.

Emotionally, Elise wasn't doing much better. She cried trying to eat soup she'd picked up on the way home, and practicing her speech almost made her physically ill. Should she take a day off to adjust?

Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: ksmooth on 20. July 2021, 06:42:18 AM
Brilliant as always!  Agree with the inclusion of Cora here
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 21. July 2021, 21:12:57 PM
Part 12: Anything to Help

*ATTN: I am experimenting with a new format for this story. I hope you all like it.


Elise's hands worked the tear soaked tissue that sat in her hands. She took a week off of work to practice her speech and get a handle on her new appliances, but it was hard. By the end of the week she got to the point where she could speak just as good as her first adjustment, so when she went to school she was sure that she could make it to her next appointment just fine.

What had her in tears this afternoon was the realization that she would need to get a staff picture of herself the next day. There was already a gap in her front teeth on the top and bottom, showing that her expanders were indeed working. She just hated how big the gap was, and how the profile of her face was changing due to her herbst. She made a note to ask Dr. Brandt about how far her jaw was supposed to move.

Cora's first six weeks was a nightmare for her. She prided herself on looks, and was often a trophy that Jared loved to show off at work events. When she looked into the mirror or caught her reflection now, her teeth looked silver with metal. There was hardly any enamel to be seen, and her lips constantly puffed out over her banded teeth. She hated it.

Now every day she would sit on the bathroom counter after brushing as her husband gently held her chin and made the turns in her appliances. She begged him every time to let her do it, but every time he said no, and that they were going to do exactly what Dr. Brandt ordered him them to do. This was for their health, after all.

What he didn't tell her, was that he was so adamant about this treatment because he felt his wife needed to be reigned in some. She was a spoiled brat thanks to her parents; one that never had consequences, or did anything that made her uncomfortable. If he was going to spend the money to take care of her, then they were going to do it his way, and she would learn that not everything is easy. His niece Kara had to learn the same lesson, sadly.

Six weeks later, it was another Saturday and Kara was sitting at reception looking at her new elastics pattern in her phone's camera. Dr. Brandt had created a pattern that would hopefully close the open bite caused by her older appliances. She put her phone down as Cora and Jared checked in. "Hi, Uncle Jared. Aunt Cora. I hope that your first six weeks wasn't so bad."

Cora shrugged as she signed in. "I guess it could've been worse." She sat down in an empty seat, and bounced her knee nervously as she waited for her turn to be called.

In the back Elise sat playing with the hem of her shirt as Hannah removed her wires. She was nervous about speaking with Dr. Brandt about her lower jaw which seemed to pass her upper one now. When she looked up her orthodontist was aiming the light to his liking then pulled on gloves.

"Elise, Hannah said you were worried about your jaw alignment?" Elise nervously nodded as he looked making her open and close numerous times.

"It looks like I'm getting an underbite." Dr. Brandt shook his head no as he placed a retractor in her mouth.

"It just looks different is all, I promise. You'll see how nicely everything is lining up in the next few months. Hannah, I'd like to slow down her jaw movement, actually. I don't like how fast this is going, and it can make things off causing headaches again. Have those been better at all, dear?" He removes the herbst as he talks, and without warning he pulls out metal springs. This upsets her and she shakes her head no, beginning to try to get up.

Hannah pushes her back gently and strokes her cheek as she keeps her hand on Elise's shoulder. "Now Elise, this is for your own good. Can you answer the Dr? How are your headaches?"

Elise sniffed back tears and spoke as the retractor was widened. "They're better. Dr. I promise I'll be good with rubberbands."

The doctor smiled behind his mask as the springs were placed into a visibly running from her premolars on top to her back lower molars on each side. "Elise, I told you that we work complete compliance here. I will use whatever means necessary to get rid of the headaches and give you a perfect smile. Had you worn your retainer, I'd have no problem being a bit more lenient. Now, let's give those expanders an extra few turns."

Cora was lead back alone and put into the chair across from Elise. She could see that she was getting a major adjustment, and also that Elise's feet squirming at the end of the chair indicated it was uncomfortable. She gripped the arms of the cool green leather chair as covered tray was placed in front of her.

Next, Hannah reclined her chair and smiled down at her. "Cora dear, have you ever had gas? Today will be a bit intense and it will help."







Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 21. July 2021, 21:36:01 PM
Just be careful that you don't slip from past tense to present tense. I'm enjoying your story so far and looking forward to more of it.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: bracessd on 22. July 2021, 17:38:55 PM
Nice, looking forward to the next chapter!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 23. July 2021, 10:56:41 AM
Nice update! Looking forward to more :)
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 27. July 2021, 19:35:18 PM
Part 13: It's a learning process.

Dr. Brandt held a mirror over so that she could see his work. He spoke to her as always in a calm and friendly tone.

"Now Elise, I've added a very strong wire this time and you can see how the springs are set. Please do not fiddle with them, as they're key into getting that bite under control." He picks up an expander key and tilts her head up "Now I still expect you to turn your expanders, but I want to push you some."

Elise silently cries as Dr. Brandt does two turns on each expander then sits her up. She is shooed out to the waiting room slurping spit and scaring patients who await their own appointments today. Slowly and with knots in her stomach she speaks to Kara to get her next appointment.

In the back, Cora is nervously breathing gas as she wished she could hold her husband's hand. Slowly but surely her mind drifts as the tray to her right is loaded with tools and metal.

Dr. Brandt strides over pulling gloves and a mask on as he takes his spot behind Cora's head. "Hello, Cora. Today I am going to do two turns on your expanders and then we are going to do wire ligatures, and then it's headgear day for you."

The word headgear made Cora mumble incoherently as the retractor was placed. He spoke to Hannah as he worked.

"Due to her past, I will be wiring this cervical headgear in. I understand that it's not the most fun, but this will be so good for her in the end. We may be using a few different methods and combinations of headgear. Today I will start with the upper jaw. My hope is that we only need the headgear for about a year."

Cora could hear a click in the back of her mouth as the wire from the headgear was wired to the bands on her backmost molars.  The pressure was immediate, and in her drugged state she wasn't really sure how to make it stop.  The appointment lasted two hours as wires were replaced, and a hot pink strap was used to hold it to her head.







Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 28. July 2021, 02:54:18 AM
Oh boy, Wired in headgear!~  ;D
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: eddiestobbart on 06. August 2021, 03:09:20 AM
The story is moving on nicely and is certainly keeping my attention - well done!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 30. August 2021, 21:10:59 PM
Chapter 14: Broken Braces

Kara cried tears of joy as she looked at her bare teeth in a hand mirror. After spending most of her college years in braces, they were finally off. Dr. Brandt and Hannah gave her a hug and took pictures of her for the website. The poor girl had suffered almost a decade in orthodontia and was grateful when she was handed two hawley retainers to keep her teeth in place.

After a lot of smiles, Kara opened the office, watching over the waves of patients coming in and out of the office for the day. At noon, there was a phone call.

"Good afternoon! This is Kara, how can I help you?"

"Hey Kara it's Elise, and I'm a patient. I was eating lunch and I had a bracket fall off. I just wanted to see if I could pop in to have it attached?"

"Let me look at the schedule and talk to the Dr. I know you're on the schedule in two weeks." Typing could be heard over the phone as Elise waited to hear when she could have the bracket attached.

"Elise, thank you for waiting. You can come in this afternoon to have it fixed, and Dr. Brandt will go ahead and do that adjustment for you."

"Th-thank you Kara."

Elise was upset to hear that her adjustment would be taking place today. She had to give a big meeting with her boss the next day, and she certainly didn't want to be  sore for it.

Back at Dr. Brandt's office, Cora was in the chair once again crying. Dr. Brandt announced that she would be needing a tongue crib along with the high pull headgear that he was currently wiring in. He snipped the wires and then adjusted the chair. When he was handed the tongue crib, Cora's eyes went wide as her head was steadied by Hannah.

"Now Cora, no use getting upset. Jared was kind enough to let me know that you've developed quite a tongue thrusting habit. I'd hate to ruin any progress that you may be gaining. So, you'll have this. I am also recommending that you begin speech therapy. With your appliances you'll need it."

The curing light was used and soon after Cora was at the front desk scheduling an appointment for her next adjustment.

Elise saw Cora's headgear and swallowed hard. The poor woman she was watching was drooling, and struggling to talk. Her attention was taken when Hannah walked to her and informed her that they were ready to see her. When she was taken back, she sat on the and put the bracket on the attached tray.

Hannah smiled seeing it, and placed a bib on her patient. She smiled, and couldn't help but pry, "Can I see which tooth that is please?" She aimed the light and picked up a mirror as Elise opened, displaying the bare upper right canine.

About this time, Dr. Brandt walked in smiling. He hummed as Hannah removed the wires, and frowned when it was his turn to look. "Elise, how did this happen?"

Elise blushed fiercely as Dr. Brandt pulled up her xrays taken at last appointment.

"It was really an accident. I took a bite of a cookie and didn't see that I'd grabbed one with walnuts in it from the cookie platter at work."

The orthodontist nodded and tapped Elise's chin signaling her to open. "Elise, I told you that you should pay attention to what you're eating. Walnuts will damage your braces, and cookies are full of sugar." She teared up, feeling embarrassed and nervous. He gave a thorough exam and then nodded to himself as he popped of each bracket of her braces.

"Hannah, dear. I have another patient. I need you to put spacers in between the teeth without anything on them. We need to make sure this doesn't happen again. I will also work on her bite today."

After he goes, Hannah works 35 mins to squeeze spacers in between each of Elise's front teeth. As the spacers worked over the next hour, Elise sat gripping the armrests of the chair she was in. While she lay feeling the pressure of her teeth moving, she could hear a poor patient groaning in discomfort. She wasn't sure what the spacers were for, but she was sure it wouldn't be good.




















Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 31. August 2021, 00:05:48 AM
Hehehehe, gee, i wonder what those spacers are for....  Hmm, how about bands!  >:D
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 31. August 2021, 00:13:16 AM
Hehehehe, gee, i wonder what those spacers are for....  Hmm, how about bands!  >:D

Guess you'll have to wait and see
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 01. September 2021, 13:08:44 PM
poor cora!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: eddiestobbart on 05. September 2021, 20:12:05 PM
If she gets full bands just for eating a walnut cookie- that would be harsh! We shall see though!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 05. September 2021, 20:25:04 PM
Part 15: This isn't what I signed up for

Elise's mouth throbbed as the time went on. She'd not known that she could physically feel her teeth separating, but she could. The separators in her mouth made spaces so that bands could be slipped around them. This however, wasn't something that even came into mind. She was more distracted by all the tools that Hannah kept placing on the tray just above her chest.

Hannah smiled down at her and adjusted the chair, knowing that the doctor would want it to be a certain way for Elise's next phase of treatment. Elise had been irresponsible, and using banded brackets would be a safety precaution and would give Dr. Brandt more control over the movement of her teeth.

Hannah picked up the nub for the gas and held it in her hand. She seemed to hover in Elise's line of sight with a smile meant for comfort, but instead sparked confusion and fear.

"Elise, you're going to have a rather long adjustment dear."  She starts gas and Elise nods, knowing that protesting won't work.

"Hannah, what is he going to do?" Elise asked, the gas making her voice sound like an echo as it came out.

Hannah soothed her, patting her shoulder as the doctor came into view with a mask on. He slipped in the retractor and a suction as Elise finished her sentences.

"Shh my dear. Dr. Brandt is insuring you can't break your braces again." Elise's eyes grow wide hearing this promise as bands begin to be pressed painfully on to each tooth. "These take a lot longer to work, but damn are they worth it. I am able to control your movement more, and get that absolutely perfect alignment."

The gas made Elise feel confused and upset and she tried speaking but her concerns were ignored. The doctor spoke calmly as he wove wire ligatures into her braces.

" Today I am installing a bite plate, Elise. It will cover most of your molars, but it will do the work. Your speech may be impacted, but it'll be worth it."

All that Elise could do was to grip the armrest as Dr. Brandt worked filling up her mouth more than she thought possible.

The next morning she used a lint roller on her sweater as she stands outside of the principal's office. This meeting was to discuss extending her contract into the next year, and she was mortified to go into barely able to make sense after yesterday's appointment.





Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 05. September 2021, 22:07:18 PM
Oh dear. I see a lisp in her future
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 06. September 2021, 06:23:48 AM
Ouch.~ Ah well, at least Elise's brackets won't break anymore.  ;D

I hope she gets headgear like Cora.~
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: lizziek on 07. September 2021, 18:18:22 PM
Oh yes, really enjoying this. Perhaps the two women can become friends?
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Sgbraced on 09. September 2021, 15:31:19 PM
Like it ! Keep it up !
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 04. October 2021, 21:11:42 PM
Part 16: Very Little Progress

Cora felt like an animal on show as her husband Jared spoke to Dr. Brandt as though she wasn't there at her next appointment. Her mouth was held open and a suction tube hung out the right side giving her an awful case of cotton mouth. Dr. Brandt was showing Jared how to turn the key on her new expanders. Both men ignored her tears and she whimpered as Dr. Brandt cradled her jaw and turned the key on her top expander.

"See? Not hard at all Jared. Now you do the bottom. " Jared turned the key slowly, causing Cora to gasp at the pressure.

"Great job, Jared. She needs that turned every night. I know we just did a turn, but another one tonight won't hurt." The orthodontist explained, unwiring the cervical headgear he placed weeks ago. Cora squeezed Jared's hand feeling relief as the headgear she despised was removed. He gave her a squeeze back and then smirked as another headgear was pulled out. Cora was going to hate this, and he knew it.

Dr. Brandt held up the contraption that looked more like an umpire's mask than an orthodontic device. Rubber bands were poured out on the tray, and would be used to hold tension. As Cora realized that this was to be wired in like the last one she began to cry and look up at Jared helplessly. Silently begging him to make it stop as he held her hands firmly to her chest.

In and effort to calm his bride down, Jared spoke kindly to her. "Honey, it's temporary, and for your own good. I promise you'll thank Dr. Brandt and I some day, yeah?"

At the reception desk, there was a sign that help was needed in the way of a part time receptionist. With Kara feeling confident enough to be out in public with her braces off, she was going to begin college, and the office needed help a few days a week. With some hesitation Elise signed in and then looked at the sign.

In the last week, she'd been asked by the school to take a step back until she was able to speak clearly and not rely on videos and handouts to teach. For that reason, Elise was now in the middle of a job hunt, wanting to make sure that she could still pay her bills monthly. With a sigh, she sent her resume to the email address on the sign.

Elise's deep thoughts about her future were interrupted as she saw a woman come from the back with a facemask. The lady leaned on what was assumed to be her partner as they made an appointment and left. Touching her hated brackets, Elise sighed wondering what her fate would be today.






Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 05. October 2021, 11:30:25 AM
Welp, there's a cliffhanger!
Poor Cora...
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: braces37 on 06. October 2021, 11:04:02 AM
This story is going very well. Switching between multiple POVs like this gives it a sense of breadth.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 27. October 2021, 20:09:56 PM
Chapter 17: It's for your own good.

Elise's palms were damp with sweat as she was lead back by Hannah whose own lips were stretched over brackets. Elise noticed there was a tray that had straps on it and her breathing increased. She hadn't even noticed Dr. Brandt placing thick wire on the tray, and looking at her records. The straps on the tray made her sick thinking about her highschool life and the crying when she had headgear on. She was so deep in her thoughts that placing a bib on her, being reclined and having the light aimed didn't seem to register.

She only came to when she heard Dr. Brandt snapping gloves on, and looked up to see he and Hannah smiling behind masks. Out of instinct she opened her mouth and went through the routine of opening and closing for what seemed like forever to her.

Dr. Brandt smiled behind his mask and then placed a retractor in Elise's mouth. "Elise, I'm placing a new wire on top and bottom. I'm also going to start making that bite of yours line up."

Elise tried to ask how but her words were garbled and not understandable as the doctor happily pulled out the bite plate causing her to groan in discomfort. Elise's teeth felt like they may come loose as they were freed from the plastic. After a chair gripping cleaning, he began to place bands on all her molars then lace the wire through them.

Hannah held a cervical headgear in Elise's line of vision and handed it to the doctor. "Elise, Dr. Brandt will wire this into your bottom molars. You are to clean your teeth very well every time you eat."

Numb and a bit shocked, Elise only cried while Dr. Brandt wired in the headgear. She looked up at him with watery eyes begging him to have mercy on her. When she was sat up she rubbed her sore teeth and sniffed. "Dr, how long will I have to be like this?"

Dr. Brandt smiled , shooing her out of the room. "You know we don't talk time tables, dear. I can tell you that with the banded brackets and the headgear, it can extend treatment longer than I usually prefer." Elise's hands shook as she left and scheduled the next of what would be several appointments.

When Elise left, the doctor turned to Hannah and patted the chair. "Your turn, darling. Have a seat. I need to see if you're wearing those rubber bands or not."





Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 28. October 2021, 02:37:27 AM
I love where this story is going! Can't wait to see what the future holds for Elise, and I'm especially excited for a look into Hannah and Dr. Brandt's relationship!

Me too! By the way... I love the art on IG.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TimeandBrace on 28. October 2021, 07:38:37 AM
Ohh, poor Elise, she got the headgear wired on.. again! First when she was a kid, and now a fully grown woman.. ~  >:D
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: annasun251 on 29. October 2021, 16:16:37 PM
ooh
can't wait to read more!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: bsma189 on 09. July 2022, 06:24:56 AM
Please continue!!!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TrainTrack on 07. October 2022, 00:06:24 AM
This is a great story, amd it’ll be even better if/when she gets to work at an orthodontic office. Please continue!

Poor Elise and Cora, full bands and a wired in headgear. >:D
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: ellers on 07. October 2022, 02:08:20 AM
I agree. This was definitely one of the stories I happened to enjoy a lot.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 07. October 2022, 02:19:23 AM
I always check for updates to the stories. Any new chapters are always enjoyed.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 29. November 2022, 01:40:08 AM
Hello, hello.

I sincerely do have intention to continue this story. I've had a lot of writer's block and other things going on, but hopefully in the next week You'll see another chapter.

Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 29. November 2022, 02:00:12 AM
We all get writer's block from time to time. Take as long as you need to give us a good chapter.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: bsma189 on 29. November 2022, 02:27:20 AM
Looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: TrainTrack on 29. November 2022, 02:39:26 AM
Looking forward to it! This is a great story!
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Castlesswonder on 28. December 2022, 19:55:42 PM
Just got caught up and can’t wait for the rest of the story.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Boheme on 26. January 2023, 22:42:37 PM
/1.04
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braceface2015 on 27. January 2023, 02:29:24 AM
In the age of the internet, there is no longer such a thing as exclusive rights to stories. Once something is on the internet, it is out there forever,

As a writer, I always want to be credited as the author of what I have written. As a collector of stories, I always do my best to credit the original author when I add a story to my collection.

I do understand your frustration, but I think you should finish the story anyways.
Title: Re: Story: Team Work Makes the Dream Work
Post by: Braces1234 on 06. February 2023, 08:11:56 AM
I’m really looking forward for the next chapter of this story, keep up the good work !