Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of teeth by removing stains and discoloration. Here's an overview of how it works, the different types available, and potential side effects:

How Teeth Whitening Works

Teeth whitening primarily involves the use of bleaching agents, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents penetrate the enamel to reach the discolored molecules within the tooth. The bleaching agents break the bonds of the discolored molecules, resulting in a whiter appearance of the teeth.

Types of Teeth Whitening

1. In-Office Whitening:
   • Procedure: Performed by a dentist, this method involves applying a high-concentration bleaching agent directly to the teeth. Often, a special light or laser is used to accelerate the whitening process.
   • Duration: Typically completed in one visit, lasting 30-90 minutes.
   • Effectiveness: Provides immediate and dramatic results, with teeth often becoming several shades lighter.
2. At-Home Whitening (Prescribed by Dentist):
   • Procedure: Dentists provide custom-fitted trays and a lower-concentration bleaching gel for use at home. Patients typically wear the trays for a few hours a day or overnight for several weeks.
   • Duration: Results usually appear within a few days to a couple of weeks.
   • Effectiveness: Can achieve similar results to in-office treatments over a longer period.
3. Over-the-Counter Whitening Products:
   • Whitening Strips: Thin, flexible strips coated with a bleaching gel. Applied directly to the teeth and worn for a specified time.
   • Whitening Toothpastes and Mouthwashes: Contain mild abrasives or low concentrations of bleaching agents to help remove surface stains.
   • Whitening Pens and Gels: Applied directly to the teeth with a brush applicator.
4. Natural Remedies:
   • Baking Soda: A mild abrasive that can help remove surface stains.
   • Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse: A diluted solution can be used as a mouthwash.
   • Fruit Peels: Some people use banana or orange peels to rub on their teeth, though scientific evidence supporting effectiveness is limited.

Side Effects of Teeth Whitening

1. Tooth Sensitivity:
   • Cause: Whitening agents can penetrate the enamel and reach the dentin, causing temporary sensitivity.
   • Management: Use of desensitizing toothpaste or reducing the frequency of whitening treatments.
2. Gum Irritation:
   • Cause: Contact with bleaching agents can irritate the gums.
   • Management: Ensuring proper application to avoid contact with the gums, and using protective barriers during in-office treatments.
3. Enamel Damage:
   • Risk: Overuse or improper application of whitening products can weaken the enamel.
   • Prevention: Follow the recommended usage guidelines and consult with a dentist before starting any whitening regimen.
4. Uneven Whitening:
   • Cause: Existing dental work (fillings, crowns, veneers) does not respond to bleaching agents, leading to color mismatch.
   • Solution: Discuss options with a dentist to ensure a uniform appearance.

Considerations and Tips

• Consult with a Dentist: Before starting any whitening treatment, it’s important to consult with a dentist to ensure it’s appropriate for your dental health and to get personalized recommendations.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices can help maintain the results of whitening treatments. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are essential.
• Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Limiting consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can help prolong the effects of whitening.

Teeth whitening can significantly enhance your smile’s appearance, but it’s important to choose the right method and be aware of potential side effects. Always seek professional advice to ensure safe and effective whitening.

Dental fear and avoidance, commonly known as dental anxiety or dental phobia, can have significant impacts on oral health and overall well-being. Here’s an overview of its causes, symptoms, and implications:

Causes of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Previous Traumatic Experiences:
   • Painful or unpleasant dental visits in the past.
   • Negative experiences during childhood dental visits.
2. Fear of Pain:
   • Anticipation of pain during dental procedures.
   • Sensitivity to oral discomfort.
3. Loss of Control:
   • Feeling vulnerable or helpless in the dental chair.
   • Inability to see what’s happening or communicate easily.
4. Embarrassment:
   • Concerns about the state of oral health.
   • Fear of being judged by the dentist or staff.
5. Negative Stereotypes and Media:
   • Influence of negative portrayals of dentists in movies or TV.
   • Hearing horror stories from friends or family.
6. General Anxiety Disorders:
   • People with generalized anxiety, panic disorders, or other phobias may be more prone to dental anxiety.
7. Inherited Traits:
   • Some studies suggest a genetic predisposition to anxiety and phobias.

Symptoms of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Physical Symptoms:
   • Increased heart rate and sweating.
   • Nausea or stomach distress.
   • Shortness of breath or hyperventilation.
   • Trembling or shaking.
2. Psychological Symptoms:
   • Overwhelming feelings of dread or terror at the thought of visiting the dentist.
   • Sleep disturbances before a dental appointment.
   • Persistent worry or obsessive thoughts about dental visits.
3. Behavioral Symptoms:
   • Avoiding dental appointments altogether.
   • Cancelling or postponing scheduled visits.
   • Difficulty sitting through a dental examination or procedure.
4. Emotional Symptoms:
   • Irritability or mood swings related to dental visits.
   • Feelings of helplessness or being overwhelmed.

Implications of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Poor Oral Health:
   • Increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss due to infrequent dental care.
   • Development of complex dental issues that require more extensive and invasive treatments.
2. Overall Health Impact:
   • Poor oral health is linked to systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
3. Quality of Life:
   • Chronic pain and discomfort from untreated dental issues.
   • Impact on self-esteem and social interactions due to poor oral health.

Managing Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Communication:
   • Open discussions with the dentist about fears and anxieties.
   • Seeking a dentist who is empathetic and patient-friendly.
2. Relaxation Techniques:
   • Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music during appointments.
   • Progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
3. Sedation Dentistry:
   • Use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or intravenous sedation to ease anxiety during procedures.
4. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
   • Psychological techniques to reframe negative thoughts and reduce fear.
5. Gradual Exposure:
   • Slowly increasing exposure to the dental environment to build tolerance and reduce fear.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of dental fear and avoidance is crucial for addressing this common issue. By adopting a compassionate and tailored approach, dental professionals can help patients overcome their anxieties, ensuring better oral and overall health.
Dental fear and avoidance, commonly known as dental anxiety or dental phobia, can have significant impacts on oral health and overall well-being. Here’s an overview of its causes, symptoms, and implications:

Causes of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Previous Traumatic Experiences:
   • Painful or unpleasant dental visits in the past.
   • Negative experiences during childhood dental visits.
2. Fear of Pain:
   • Anticipation of pain during dental procedures.
   • Sensitivity to oral discomfort.
3. Loss of Control:
   • Feeling vulnerable or helpless in the dental chair.
   • Inability to see what’s happening or communicate easily.
4. Embarrassment:
   • Concerns about the state of oral health.
   • Fear of being judged by the dentist or staff.
5. Negative Stereotypes and Media:
   • Influence of negative portrayals of dentists in movies or TV.
   • Hearing horror stories from friends or family.
6. General Anxiety Disorders:
   • People with generalized anxiety, panic disorders, or other phobias may be more prone to dental anxiety.
7. Inherited Traits:
   • Some studies suggest a genetic predisposition to anxiety and phobias.

Symptoms of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Physical Symptoms:
   • Increased heart rate and sweating.
   • Nausea or stomach distress.
   • Shortness of breath or hyperventilation.
   • Trembling or shaking.
2. Psychological Symptoms:
   • Overwhelming feelings of dread or terror at the thought of visiting the dentist.
   • Sleep disturbances before a dental appointment.
   • Persistent worry or obsessive thoughts about dental visits.
3. Behavioral Symptoms:
   • Avoiding dental appointments altogether.
   • Cancelling or postponing scheduled visits.
   • Difficulty sitting through a dental examination or procedure.
4. Emotional Symptoms:
   • Irritability or mood swings related to dental visits.
   • Feelings of helplessness or being overwhelmed.

Implications of Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Poor Oral Health:
   • Increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss due to infrequent dental care.
   • Development of complex dental issues that require more extensive and invasive treatments.
2. Overall Health Impact:
   • Poor oral health is linked to systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
3. Quality of Life:
   • Chronic pain and discomfort from untreated dental issues.
   • Impact on self-esteem and social interactions due to poor oral health.

Managing Dental Fear and Avoidance

1. Communication:
   • Open discussions with the dentist about fears and anxieties.
   • Seeking a dentist who is empathetic and patient-friendly.
2. Relaxation Techniques:
   • Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music during appointments.
   • Progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
3. Sedation Dentistry:
   • Use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or intravenous sedation to ease anxiety during procedures.
4. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
   • Psychological techniques to reframe negative thoughts and reduce fear.
5. Gradual Exposure:
   • Slowly increasing exposure to the dental environment to build tolerance and reduce fear.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of dental fear and avoidance is crucial for addressing this common issue. By adopting a compassionate and tailored approach, dental professionals can help patients overcome their anxieties, ensuring better oral and overall health.

I live in castle pines so actually would prefer a practice closer to me.
Looking for more of a cosmetic dentist as well. Prefer not a holistic doctor, I just don’t know much about them.
TIA!!
**edit: I’m asking Reddit bc I found my last dentist in Denver from good reviews and I didn’t have the best experience. Looked into the dentist having a lot of fake five star reviews and super good introductory deal.

Prior to having ortho done with invsalign I spoke with the dentist about veneer vs dental bonding placement on my peg lateral incisiors which he agreed could be done and when the time comes we can rediscuss which would be the better option. Fast forward 4 months later after compelting invisalign treatment, we rediscussed about veneer vs bonding placement, which again he reassured me that he can do either one. He subequently had me speak to his office billeassistant which explained to me the difference between veneers and bonding (I also did my own research on both), after some time I opted to go with veneers as she reassured me "minimal" teeth filing would be done, she then ran the bill which displayed "crown/veneer" on the statement. I asked about this and she stated, "this is how it's billed but I will recieve veneers". The day comes to have the veneers placed or so I thought. The dentist comes in and starts the procedure, I hear some drilling going on which I knew had to be done as "minimal" filing is needed, again that's what I thought was going on... it turns out my peg laterals were filed tremendously! I was shocked, but thought, this is probably the required amount for veneers. He placed the temps on that only covered the front of the two peg laters but not the back, and he had me come back 3 weeks later. I arrived for placement of the "veneers" only to have the dentist file my teeth down even more during the procedure! At this point I was so disarrayed that I had no idea what to do?? The damage had been done already. Was I to tell him to stop? My teeth were already stumps. I was told throughout the whole time since getting invisalign that veneers or composite bonding is an option and NEVER once mentioned crowns! I was also extremely adamant against crowns, hence the dentist never brought up crowns to me. I now have crowns placed and feel absolutely demoralized. The dentist never informed me about placing crowns, or limitations that would prevent veneers from being placed; he just kept saying "yes, yes veneers". If I was informed about this I would have went with dental bonding instead.
​
On top of this, 3 members of his staff/dental assitants and the dentist himself knew I only wanted either veneers or dental bonding. During my invisalign treatment, the DAs would even ask me if "I'm excited for the veneers" or if I had gone with the veneer option over dental bonding, which I replied yes to the veneers.
​
Lastly, this wasn't some random dentist I went to. I searched around extensively to find a "reputable" dentist. From the Google search he had over 2,000+ reviews and 4.9/5 stars, and advertised "cosmetic smile makeovers", so I felt this was a sound decision, and opted to drive over 1 hour for every appointment to have treatment done by him. I have never felt such regret in my life until now.
​
Is there anything that I can do in this situation? I feel I was outright misled. From the beginning I made it clear I never wanted crowns hence, the discussion only bounced between veneers or bonding, and ended up with crowns... I honetly have no idea what to do..

Hw 265, Sw 233, Cw 207. 2.5mg, weeks 5mg, 1 week so far
Background: I have been having dental procedures approximately every 4-6 months for a couple of years now. Due to anxiety and previous negative experiences, I need to be sedated to go through these procedures. My dentist prescribes halcion/triazolam for those purpose. I take three 0.125mg tablets 30min to 1 hour before the visit.
In previous visits, I typically took the medication about 30-45 minutes before. During these times, I remember getting to the office and getting home, where I would then sleep for a couple more hours.
This time was very different. I took the medication 1 hr before. I was mildly relaxed at the appointment, but still very aware. While getting numbed and waiting for that to kick in, I tried to lean into the relaxation.
This was not enough. As soon as I heard the drill, I panicked. I could not calm myself enough for them to continue. We had to stop for about 20 minutes while I worked myself out of an anxiety attack where I was shaking and crying.
They started giving me gas for a while, which helped somewhat. I was able o eventually grit my way through the worst of it and made it through the entire procedure, in a terrible state of anxiety.
Usually this medication takes around 4-5 hours total to wear off and get me back to normal.
This time, it didn't fully kick in, seemingly ever. For context I took the medication at 8am and slept most of the day after my 9am appointment. I was still feeling the effects at 11pm. It wasn't just feeling sleepy, I was uncomfortable. I'm not sure how to explain it. I felt very off for at least 24hrs after initially taking the medication.
Talk to your doctor and dentist.
Tldr: Beware, fast acting medications may not be fast acting anymore on Mounjaro.

I have severe dentist anxiety. Due to this, I haven't been to a dentist in around a decade. As you may imagine, my teeth are in really poor shape. I am looking for a compassionate dentist on the eastside who won't shame me for my current situation and help me address my dental issues - that I'm sure are many. If they offer sedation dentistry, even better. Thank you in advance.

Based on others' experiences I'm curious to know whether this is a sound approach upon finishing Invisalign? This is based on a conversation with a dentist friend + reading this sub and other sources.
At the end of the final aligner:

1. Deep clean of mouth for hygiene and to clear plaque
2. Whitening of teeth
3. Edge composite bonding (that matches the post-whitening colour), in my specific case this would be for minor cosmetic adjustments to even out my teeth and improve symmetry, front six teeth. Yes this can become discoloured over time but professional polishing every year and careful ongoing care should largely mitigate this until potentially new composite is needed several years later.
4. Have the permanent wire retainer fitted on back of teeth
5. Have the nighttime clear aligner made and use at night indefinitely.

Any additional considerations or anything missing? Any advice would be appreciated.

In the pursuit of a radiant smile and optimal dental health, one solution stands out as a beacon of reliability and longevity: dental implants. At Umbrella Aesthetics in Mysore
premier dental clinic in Mysore, we understand the transformative power of a complete, confident smile. Let's delve into the world of dental implants, exploring their benefits, procedure, and post-operative care, guided by our esteemed dental implant specialists.
Why Choose Dental Implants at Umbrella Aesthetics?
When it comes to restoring your smile, trust matters. At Umbrella Aesthetics, we are committed to providing top-standard dental care, including dental implants, in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Our team of experienced professionals ensures that every aspect of your implant journey is meticulously planned and executed to perfection. With cutting-edge technology and personalized care, we strive to exceed your expectations and help you regain the confidence to smile freely.
Understanding Dental Implants: A Lasting Solution
Dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, restoring both functionality and aesthetics. Comprising titanium posts, implant crowns, and abutments, they mimic the structure of natural teeth with remarkable precision. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are firmly anchored to the jawbone, providing stability and durability that far surpasses other tooth replacement options.
The Dental Implant Procedure: Step by Step
Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant is a multi-step process that typically spans several months.
1. Primary Assessment and Preparation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health and determine your eligibility for dental implants.
2. Implant Placement: The titanium implant screw is surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as a sturdy foundation for the prosthetic tooth.
3. Healing and Osseointegration: Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration, ensuring a strong and stable bond.
4. Crown Placement: Finally, a custom-made crown is affixed to the abutment, completing the restoration and restoring the natural appearance and function of your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants:
Natural Look and Feel: Implant crowns blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a lifelike appearance and restoring your confidence in your smile.
Improved Chewing Ability: With their superior strength and stability, dental implants allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without hesitation, enhancing your quality of life.
Longevity and Durability: Thanks to proper osseointegration, dental implants can last a lifetime with regular care and maintenance, making them a cost-effective investment in your oral health.
Preservation of Jawbone: By stimulating the surrounding bone, dental implants help prevent bone loss and preserve the integrity of your jawline, maintaining facial aesthetics and oral health.
Enhanced Speech: Unlike removable dentures, which may cause speech impediments, dental implants provide a natural and comfortable fit, allowing you to speak clearly and confidently.
Who Should Consider Dental Implants?
Factors such as gum health, oral hygiene habits, and underlying medical conditions can influence candidacy for implant surgery. It's essential to consult with a qualified dental implant specialist to determine whether implants are the right option for you.
Post-Operative Care and Instructions:
After implant placement, proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and successful outcome. Here are some essential tips to follow:
Avoid Disturbing the Surgical Site: Refrain from touching or probing the implant area to prevent complications and promote healing.
Follow Medication Instructions: Take prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and reduce the risk of infection.
Manage Swelling: Apply cold compresses to minimize swelling and discomfort in the days following surgery.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: Adopt a gentle oral care routine, avoiding vigorous rinsing or brushing near the surgical site.
Modify Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the implant site to prevent irritation or damage.
Avoid Harmful Habits: Steer clear of smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and other habits that can impede healing and compromise implant success.
At Umbrella Aesthetics, we believe that every smile deserves to shine brightly. With our comprehensive dental implant services and expert care, we're here to help you reclaim your confidence and enjoy a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. If you're ready to explore the transformative benefits of dental implants, schedule a consultation with the Best dentist in Mysore, one of the most trusted dental implant specialists in Mysore.
More Information:
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umbrellaaesthetics@gmail.com

When our characters suffer addiction we know little about we should look up these different things to add into the description of the traits to provide more depth and reality to them. It makes it more three dimensional and can build into different subplots that are integrated into a larger storyline.
Here are just a few of the things people are addicted to and how those addictions are manifested into traits that are part of a full character profile.

1. Alcohol:
   
   • Dependence
   • Craving
   • Tolerance
   • Withdrawal symptoms
   • Loss of control
2. Tobacco:
   
   • Nicotine dependence
   • Habitual use
   • Respiratory issues
   • Withdrawal symptoms
   • Health deterioration
3. Cocaine:
   
   • Intense euphoria
   • Increased energy
   • Agitation
   • Paranoia
   • Rapid heart rate
4. Heroin:
   
   • Euphoria
   • Drowsiness
   • Needle marks
   • Respiratory depression
   • Nausea
5. Marijuana:
   
   • Altered perception
   • Memory impairment
   • Lack of coordination
   • Dependence
   • Impaired judgment
6. Prescription opioids:
   
   • Pain relief
   • Sedation
   • Dependence
   • Tolerance
   • Respiratory depression
7. Benzodiazepines:
   
   • Anxiety relief
   • Sedation
   • Dependence
   • Withdrawal symptoms
   • Memory impairment
8. Methamphetamine:
   
   • Increased alertness
   • Euphoria
   • Agitation
   • Psychotic symptoms
   • Cardiovascular issues
9. Gambling:
   
   • Compulsive behavior
   • Financial losses
   • Obsessive thoughts
   • Relationship strain
   • Chasing losses
10. Video games:
    
    • Escapism
    • Social isolation
    • Obsessive gaming
    • Impaired daily functioning
    • Disrupted sleep
11. Social media:
    
    • Constant checking
    • Fear of missing out (FOMO)
    • Validation-seeking behavior
    • Time distortion
    • Negative impact on mental health
12. Internet:
    
    • Excessive online time
    • Cyber addiction
    • Social disconnection
    • Impact on real-life relationships
    • Compulsive browsing
13. Shopping:
    
    • Compulsive buying
    • Financial strain
    • Temporary emotional relief
    • Hoarding tendencies
    • Impaired financial decision-making
14. Work:
    
    • Workaholism
    • Neglect of personal life
    • Burnout
    • Constant need for achievement
    • Difficulty delegating tasks
15. Exercise:
    
    • Compulsive exercising
    • Exercise as a primary source of identity
    • Physical strain
    • Disregard for rest and recovery
    • Negative impact on mental health
16. Food:
    
    • Binge eating
    • Emotional eating
    • Loss of control
    • Negative body image
    • Compulsive overeating
17. Sugar:
    
    • Craving for sugary foods
    • Energy crashes
    • Weight gain
    • Increased risk of health issues
    • Difficulty moderating intake
18. Coffee:
    
    • Caffeine dependence
    • Increased tolerance
    • Physical withdrawal symptoms
    • Disrupted sleep
    • Jitters and restlessness
19. Tea:
    
    • Caffeine dependence
    • Ritualistic consumption
    • Calming effect
    • Impact on hydration
    • Withdrawal headaches
20. Energy drinks:
    
    • Excessive caffeine intake
    • High sugar content
    • Stimulant-induced alertness
    • Potential health risks
    • Dependency for energy boost
21. Sex:
    
    • Compulsive sexual behavior
    • Relationship strain
    • Risky sexual activities
    • Obsessive thoughts
    • Impact on daily functioning
22. Pornography:
    
    • Excessive consumption
    • Escapism
    • Distorted views of relationships
    • Impact on sexual health
    • Relationship strain
23. Prescription medications:
    
    • Dependence on medication
    • Over-reliance
    • Impact on physical health
    • Potential for misuse
    • Tolerance
24. Codeine:
    
    • Pain relief
    • Sedation
    • Dependence
    • Respiratory depression
    • Misuse potential
25. LSD:
    
    • Altered perception
    • Hallucinations
    • Distorted sense of time
    • Potential for psychological distress
    • Flashbacks
26. MDMA (Ecstasy):
    
    • Increased empathy
    • Euphoria
    • Dehydration
    • Hyperactivity
    • Potential for overheating
27. Ketamine:
    
    • Dissociation
    • Hallucinations
    • Impaired motor function
    • Dependence
    • Bladder and urinary issues
28. Inhalants:
    
    • Euphoria
    • Dizziness
    • Short-term hallucinations
    • Potential for brain and organ damage
    • Sudden sniffing death
29. Caffeine:
    
    • Stimulant effects
    • Dependence
    • Withdrawal headaches
    • Increased heart rate
    • Insomnia
30. Nicotine:
    
    • Stimulant effects
    • Dependence
    • Withdrawal symptoms
    • Increased heart rate
    • Respiratory issues
31. Sex:
    
    • Compulsive sexual behavior
    • Relationship strain
    • Risky sexual activities
    • Obsessive thoughts
    • Impact on daily functioning
32. Pornography:
    
    • Excessive consumption
    • Escapism
    • Distorted views of relationships
    • Impact on sexual health
    • Relationship strain
33. Prescription medications:
    
    • Dependence on medication
    • Over-reliance
    • Impact on physical health
    • Potential for misuse
    • Tolerance
34. Codeine:
    
    • Pain relief
    • Sedation
    • Dependence
    • Respiratory depression
    • Misuse potential
35. LSD:
    
    • Altered perception
    • Hallucinations
    • Distorted sense of time
    • Potential for psychological distress
    • Flashbacks
36. MDMA (Ecstasy):
    
    • Increased empathy
    • Euphoria
    • Dehydration
    • Hyperactivity
    • Potential for overheating
37. Ketamine:
    
    • Dissociation
    • Hallucinations
    • Impaired motor function
    • Dependence
    • Bladder and urinary issues
38. Inhalants:
    
    • Euphoria
    • Dizziness
    • Short-term hallucinations
    • Potential for brain and organ damage
    • Sudden sniffing death
39. Caffeine:
    
    • Stimulant effects
    • Dependence
    • Withdrawal headaches
    • Increased heart rate
    • Insomnia
40. Painkillers:
    
    • Pain relief
    • Tolerance
    • Dependence
    • Risk of overdose
    • Respiratory depression
41. Sleeping pills:
    
    • Sedation
    • Dependence
    • Tolerance
    • Impaired cognitive function
    • Disrupted sleep patterns
42. Compulsive lying:
    
    • Habitual dishonesty
    • Concealing the truth
    • Strained relationships
    • Loss of trust
    • Need for constant validation
43. Plastic surgery:
    
    • Body dysmorphic tendencies
    • Constant pursuit of perfection
    • Psychological impact
    • Financial strain
    • Societal pressure
44. Cutting/self-harm:
    
    • Coping mechanism
    • Emotional release
    • Negative emotions relief
    • Risk of infection
    • Concealing scars
45. Powecontrol:
    
    • Manipulative behavior
    • Desire for dominance
    • Strained relationships
    • Lack of empathy
    • Fear-based control
46. Fame:
    
    • Constant pursuit of recognition
    • Validation-seeking behavior
    • Impact on mental health
    • Shifting priorities
    • Loss of privacy
47. Attention:
    
    • Constant need for validation
    • Disregard for personal boundaries
    • Impact on relationships
    • Social media-centric behavior
    • Self-worth tied to attention
48. Sugar-sweetened beverages:
    
    • High sugar content
    • Increased calorie intake
    • Weight gain
    • Tooth decay
    • Dependency on sugary drinks
49. Fast food:
    
    • High-fat content
    • High calorie intake
    • Dependence on convenience
    • Weight gain
    • Negative impact on health
50. Selfies:
    
    • Constant need for self-documentation
    • Validation-seeking behavior
    • Impact on self-esteem
    • Comparison to others
    • Social media-centric behavior
51. Cosmetic procedures:
    
    • Desire for physical enhancement
    • Psychological impact
    • Financial strain
    • Body dysmorphic tendencies
    • Societal pressure
52. Hoarding:
    
    • Compulsive accumulation of possessions
    • Difficulty discarding items
    • Impaired living space
    • Emotional attachment to objects
    • Strained relationships
53. Overeating:
    
    • Binge eating episodes
    • Emotional eating
    • Loss of control
    • Negative impact on physical health
    • Guilt and shame
54. Prescription stimulants:
    
    • Increased alertness
    • Improved focus and concentration
    • Dependence
    • Tolerance
    • Potential for misuse
55. Over-the-counter drugs:
    
    • Self-medication
    • Potential for misuse
    • Dependency
    • Health risks
    • Lack of professional guidance
56. Romantic relationships:
    
    • Codependency
    • Obsessive thoughts
    • Fear of abandonment
    • Emotional highs and lows
    • Strained personal identity
57. Codependency:
    
    • Excessive reliance on others
    • Neglect of personal needs
    • Difficulty setting boundaries
    • Fear of rejection
    • Strained relationships
58. Social approval:
    
    • Constant need for validation
    • Fear of judgment
    • Impact on self-esteem
    • Conforming behavior
    • Social media-centric validation
59. Thrill-seeking:
    
    • Constant pursuit of excitement
    • Risk-taking behavior
    • Impaired judgment
    • Adrenaline dependence
    • Impact on personal safety
60. Narcotics:
    
    • Pain relief
    • Sedation
    • Dependence
    • Tolerance
    • Health risks
61. Designer drugs (e.g., bath salts):
    
    • Intense euphoria
    • Hallucinations
    • Agitation
    • Increased heart rate
    • Severe health risks
62. Over-the-counter cough medicine abuse:
    
    • Euphoria
    • Dizziness
    • Hallucinations
    • Impaired coordination
    • Health risks
63. Social media stalking:
    
    • Compulsive checking of profiles
    • Intrusive thoughts
    • Obsessive behavior
    • Impact on mental well-being
    • Strained personal relationships
64. Fear of missing out (FOMO):
    
    • Constant need to be involved
    • Anxiety about social events
    • Comparison to others
    • Impact on mental health
    • Social media-centric anxiety
65. Collecting:
    
    • Compulsive acquisition of items
    • Difficulty discarding possessions
    • Emotional attachment to collections
    • Strained living space
    • Financial strain
66. Fantasy sports addiction:
    
    • Excessive time spent on fantasy sports
    • Impact on work or relationships
    • Obsessive tracking of player stats
    • Financial investment
    • Escapism from reality
67. Conspiracy theories obsession:
    
    • Constant consumption of conspiracy content
    • Alienation from mainstream information
    • Impact on critical thinking
    • Strained relationships
    • Difficulty accepting evidence-based information
68. Extreme diets:
    
    • Obsessive focus on dieting
    • Impact on physical health
    • Emotional distress related to food
    • Social isolation due to dietary restrictions
    • Negative body image
69. Extreme couponing:
    
    • Compulsive pursuit of discounts
    • Hoarding of coupons
    • Excessive stockpiling of items
    • Impact on financial well-being
    • Strained living space
70. Internet trolling:
    
    • Habitual provocative online behavior
    • Seeking emotional reactions
    • Anonymity-driven aggression
    • Strained online communities
    • Legal consequences
71. Spiritual bypassing:
    
    • Avoidance of negative emotions through spirituality
    • Denial of personal challenges
    • Strained relationships
    • Lack of emotional authenticity
    • Disconnect from reality
72. Extreme minimalism:
    
    • Compulsive decluttering
    • Obsessive focus on possessions
    • Strained relationships due to minimalistic lifestyle
    • Anxiety about material belongings
    • Rigidity in lifestyle choices
73. Gaming loot box addiction:
    
    • Compulsive spending on in-game purchases
    • Chasing virtual rewards
    • Financial strain
    • Impact on real-life responsibilities
    • Gambling-like behavior
74. Rumination:
    
    • Constant overthinking
    • Obsessive focus on past mistakes
    • Impact on mental health
    • Difficulty moving forward
    • Strained relationships
75. Approval-seeking behavior:
    
    • Constant need for validation
    • Fear of rejection
    • Impact on decision-making
    • Strained authenticity
    • Mental health implications
76. News addiction:
    
    • Compulsive consumption of news
    • Anxiety related to current events
    • Impact on mental well-being
    • Difficulty disconnecting from news cycle
    • Strained worldview
77. Anger addiction:
    
    • Habitual anger expression
    • Seeking confrontation
    • Strained relationships
    • Negative impact on mental health
    • Legal consequences
78. Religious zealotry:
    
    • Extreme devotion to religious beliefs
    • Intolerance of other perspectives
    • Strained relationships with non-believers
    • Willingness to harm others in the name of faith
    • Resistance to critical thinking
79. Mindless scrolling:
    
    • Excessive time spent on scrolling through content
    • Impact on productivity
    • Impaired attention span
    • Social isolation
    • Disrupted sleep patterns

My family opposes me from getting braces, my teeth aren't terrible but canine are behind and lower teeth are rotated. Food gets stuck and sometimes it hurts a lot. I'm so fed up of it, I've been wanting braces for a decade now but never had the money for it
My family says my teeth aren't that bad and that I'd be losing healthy teeth for cosmetic reasons only, they say it's my choice in the end, it's not like they force me not to get it but it makes me confused on if it's a good or bad idea
To add to the confusion, I spoke to 2 dentists, one of them said yeah we might need to remove 4 teeth(2 from upper and 2 from lower jaw) due to crowding or we could file existing teeth to make room, but I don't think you need it if aesthetically your ok with how it looks
Another dentist told me "canines are cornerstones of beauty and you should definitely get braces"
Has it been worth it for you guys? How long did it take? If you got them at my age, would it take longer

As headline says, taking a trip down south this summer. I'm looking for a few cheap stops along the way. I do enjoy some history, if that helps. Thanks!