Someone Got Braces!!

One week ago, Leasie got braces!

We opted to do braces here in Jakarta because of the cost savings (about 2/3 price of braces in America). While we had horrible, torturous experiences here our first year with dentists, the orthodontics seems to be very good.

We chose Hilly Dental because of its good reputation and close proximity to our house. Leasie and I walked to Hero grocery store, then took a Bajai for $2 the rest of the way. Ten minutes from the moment we left our house, we entered the waiting room. (That's a record for going anywhere in Jakarta!)

The dental office reminds me of Balinese villas because it is a series of small buildings connected by courtyards with Koi fish ponds and blooming lilies. I think the ambiance comforted Leasie's nerves.

One hour later she had a gleaming silver smile! I think it makes her look at least two years older!

She's been a trooper - she didn't complain too much about her sore mouth, she brushes her teeth diligently, and she's been careful to avoid popcorn (a true sacrifice!)

Only 9 months to go...