What Kind Of Process Is There For A Dentist To Decide If I Need Braces?

A dentist that sees a patient regularly will be able to see the beginning of a tooth alignment problem. This is because not only can they see in the mouth to inspect the growth of the teeth, but also they regularly take x-rays. This means the dentist will often be the first one to know that braces are needed even before a child has all of their second teeth. In the case of a teenager or an adult the dentist will be able to check the teeth and the bite and suggest if braces are needed to correct the teeth.

The real process will begin after the dentist has determined that braces are needed, this is when they will often refer the patient to an orthodontist where after an evaluation there will be x-rays taken and a mold of the teeth. Then the next visit will be when the braces are placed on the upper and lower teeth or one set at a time depending on the alignment problem of the patient.

The dentist often stays involved and does the twice yearly cleanings that will still need to be done even though braces have been put on the teeth. It is even more important to have the teeth professionally cleaned to keep any teeth from becoming decayed.

After the braces come off this will be the professional that will be seen to keep the teeth in perfect shape.