Getting braces?

[Spazmatic]

Hello. I am 21 years old and I am interested in getting braces. My teeth are pretty much fine besides 1 of my front teeth is badly crooked and out of place. I don't remember it being as bad as it is now, when i was younger, so I think it's getting worse as time progresses. How exactly do I go about getting braces? I haven't been to a dentist in years. Could I go strait for an orthodontics or do I have to find a dentist first? Also I hear people sometimes getting 7 teeth pulled before putting braces on. Why is this? Thanks.

[DrMike]

You would need to visit a dentist first so they could refer you to the orthodontist.
This is because the dentist will need to check the condition of the other teeth first before the orthodontist can decide what to do.
Sometimes teeth need to be removed to provide space to relieve the crowding. I have never heard of as many as 7 teeth being removed- the usual maximum in about 4.
regards
Dr Mike

[vixi]

Hi Spazmatic

I am currently in braces
The best thing is to go to your normal dentist, they will then refer you to an orthodentist if they do not have one in the practice.

You have a consultation if you have to pay it can cost from I think 70 upwards , mine was 70 and that includes x rays, moulds are taken of your teeth and a treatment plan agreed

I had to have 2 teeth at the top removed to make room as I have a large overbite.

I had a removable brace on the top for the first 8 months , and have just gone on to fixed braces on the top.

Your dentist should be able to tell you if braces are needed or if it is a small cosmetic enhancement that can be done by the dentist like veneer work

If you are lucky enough to get brace work done on the nhs then thats good , but be prepared to pay if your private it is not cheap by any means

Vixi