Braces

So, I'm 20, and finally agreeing to get braces. Why have I waited this long? Ah... in high school I had a number of boyfriends and I thought having braces at the same time would be... awkward.

Anyway, just wondering if anyone has any experience. Does it hurt? How often? How annoying is it?

I've heard some scary stories from friends but I feel like they're just trying to get a reaction out of me.