Had them for 3 1/2 years, with high pull headgear

I had fixed metal brackets & elastics for 25 months in the late 70's (1978 - 1980).  I was bummed - I was expecting to get full bands (they was the most popular at the time!)

Steve

I had a retainer for well over a year (didn't wear it enough..), was meant to then get fixed braces but was nearly 18 by then (this was a couple of years ago) and chickened out. I still need them (and want them), but unfortunately at the end of the day I'm too worried about what people would think of me if I got them now, and getting clear ones spoils the best part about them! Maybe when I'm older.. but god dammit I wish I'd had them when I was younger!

I had an activator retainer, the kind that fixes upper and lower jaw at the same time, for nearly 6 years. At the time, mid eighties, I didn't like it much, mostly due to the speech encumbrance at school, but I still have the thingy in my closet and I appreciate it now more than ever.

had to wear brackets with elastics and a headgear with neckstrap
I liked it very much
after that only upper retainer

I had braces several years ago for about a year and a half. I had metal brackets, elastics and powerchains most of the time, and a bite plate near the end for several months.

I wore braces myself for a couple of years, clear brackets top and metal brackets lower. I also wore headgear for a time, but rarely in public (which was relatively common where and when I grew up), and elastics for half a year or so. Wouldn't have them again, though...