Any dentists or dental students out there that could answer this?

I recently had one of my molars extracted due to a root canal gone bad, but my regular dentist has been pressuring me to go to an orthodontist bc he thinks I need braces. So I set up an appt. I have a small mouth and am nervous about the idea of braces.





My reg. dentist believes I need them due to the way my teeth are positioned in the back. I'm really not sure what he means by that. But my question is will the orthodontist suggest a tooth implant in order to fill that gap where I had my tooth extracted or is it common for them to go ahead and fit for braces knowing the gap will close on its own once I get braces? Thanks for any input.

Any dentists or dental students out there that could answer this?
the ortho will probably close the gap up with braces, as you have a small mouth this will probably be a good idea in the long run
Reply:In most cases the orthodontist will refer to your dentist for his/her opinion. My guess would be you will be fitted for the braces.
Reply:Why don't they just have you fitted for a spacer? Then no teeth will shift. Ask more ?'s of you dentist or get another opinion.
Reply:First and foremost, your dentist has a lot of nerve sending you to an orthodontist until you understand and appreciate why you need braces. He had an obligation to fully explain his motivation for referring you to a specialist.





No one can tell you if you need an implant without knowing what tooth is missing. An alternative to an implant is a fixed bridge. Again, your dentist SHOULD have explained this to you.





Without knowing what molar is missing, it might be possible that the space will close as a result of wearing braces. Your orthodontist must explain to you what the likely outcome of wearing braces will be.





You also need to know if you have wisdom teeth and if they will present a complicating factor that needs to be addressed BEFORE you get into braces.





Inform your dentist that you expect him to explain things to your satisfaction in the future. He has a professional obligation to do so. Anything less constitutes professional NEGLIGENCE.
Reply:Seriously doubt it he will move the teeth!! Doc W



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