Dentist Visit in 30 Years

[jasonleon]

I've had braces at around age 27 when the surgeon had advised me that it may cause tooth loss at a later age. I am now 57 and it's been almost 30 years since I've last visited the dentist, since I had a general fear of the pain when going to the dentist. I now have purple gums and my tooth are loose and shaky at time to time. I suspect it may be from gum disease with a combination of the side effect for my late braces. I am a drinker and a smoker. Is it true that getting braces at a later age can have higher complications? Also what should I expect at my first dental visit after 30 years? Please advise.