In situations where there has been a loss of alignment or missing teeth a dentist may send a patient to a specialized sort of oral health professional.
They are called an orthodontist and they use a variety of appliances and techniques to gradually straighten smiles.
Before attending the first appointment there are a few things you should probably know to go in fully informed and ready to ask for and receive the information you need.
Probably the first thing you will have at this visit is a consultation in which the mouth will be examined and a discussion about why you are seeking orthodontist care and what you are looking to receive from the treatment.
The doctor will be looking to see what sort of deficiencies there are and what sort of bite problems or perhaps jaw discomfort is happening.
Often they will also perform x-rays to find out what the underlying structures are like and whether they are healthy enough to undergo the procedures.
After the initial consultation and examination the orthodontist will sit you down and discuss what he discovered and what he feels the best course of action is.
Usually he will recommend some form of braces and other appliances to slowly put things where they need to go.
Sometimes it will be necessary to use a spreader to put some space between a few teeth to better accommodate where things need to be.
This is also the time where you can discuss your concerns about appearances.
Some older people do not like the look of having traditional braces and instead would like to opt for behind the teeth or the newer invisible form.
This latter choice involves a series of gradually changing trays that slowly and discreetly improve the alignment.
If you decide that this is something you want to pursue the orthodontist may begin some preliminary procedures.
He might want to clean the teeth so that no decay is trapped underneath the things he installs or he alternately could decide that some teeth need to come out as soon as possible.
Regardless of what your orthodontist does on the first day, you should know that you are in for a long and rather drawn out process.
It is impossible to do these things overnight and it will take sometimes years to get the results you need and want.
One should be prepared for the significant monetary investment and frequent check ups that will be necessary.
This field of care is an excellent way to reach the aesthetic and functional goals you need but it can be hard to complete the process and there can be some discomfort and embarrassment.
Discuss these concerns ahead of time and you may find a great solution to your needs.