If you think that going to the orthodontist is strictly for people who need braces, you may want to think again.  Orthodontists can be helpful to a wide range of patients who may not require braces but may have other dental issues that need to be treated.  Use this information to learn more about why you should schedule an appointment with an orthodontist as soon as possible.

An Orthodontist Can Help You Avoid Surgery

One reason why you should visit an orthodontist is because they can help you avoid getting dental surgery.  This is excellent news, especially if you're the kind of person who would prefer to avoid surgery if at all possible.

For example, you may have a tooth that has been bothering you for some time.  After visiting a family dentist, they may advise you that the tooth needs to be pulled out because it can't be salvaged.  If your body is resistant to the traditional numbing solutions that are used on the mouth during tooth extraction, surgery may be the only way to get the tooth out.

That's where an orthodontist can come in.  They have special techniques wherein they use metal devices to gradually remove a tooth that needs to come out.  Because the process happens incrementally, you'll likely feel very little discomfort and you won't have to worry about going under anesthesia or deal with some of the risks that accompany most forms of surgery.

Orthodontists Help You Get Straighter Teeth

Traditional braces aren't the only way to achieve straighter teeth and the orthodontist can be instrumental in making you aware of all of the terrific options that are currently on the market.  You'll be able to have a smile you can be proud of, which has some incredible advantages.

When your teeth are straight, you're able to clean them more thoroughly.  You won't have to floss around crooked or overlapping teeth that can serve as hiding places for food debris.  Some of the straightening alternatives can be done in a relatively short period of time, so you won't have to wait for an extended timeframe before you get the beautiful smile that you're after.

Visiting the orthodontist could prove to be an incredibly wise decision.  Don't wait; contact a local dental clinic and ask to set up an appointment with an orthodontic specialist there right away.  Your teeth will be glad that you did.