What to Expect On Your First Visit?

Finding out your child (or yourself) needs braces doesn’t need to be a stressful event. Your personal orthodontist will walk you through every step of the way. The staff will always want to help you in every matter from financing to maintenance. Today’s known fact, many now see more adults with braces than children.

When it comes to your first appointment, many orthodontists start off with introductions to the staff and a tour of the office. This always helps patients feel more comfortable and at ease as they begin the process.

The only goal of the first appointment is to determine if treatment is actually needed and, if so, where to start. A thorough clinical examination is given where photographs and x-rays of the teeth and mouth will be taken. Your orthodontist will give a diagnosis, explain any orthodontic problems and recommend the necessary course of action to fix whatever problem there will be.

If it is determined treatment will be needed, impressions of the teeth will also be taken. These impressions will be used to help determine an individualized treatment plan suited best for you. After you will be given an estimate of the treatment costs and staff will review your insurance benefits. Financing options and payment plans will be discussed with you. They will also most likely recommend appliances, such as retainers, braces, or expanders. Each of these will be described in detail as to what their benefits are, and you will also receive an estimate as to the length of time the treatment will take and frequency of appointments. The first consultation typically takes one to two hours at most.

So, what comes after that? If you agree to go ahead with the recommended treatments, the next step is to schedule your next appointment to get the appliances placed. The orthodontist and staff will explain the importance of good oral hygiene while the appliances are in place, so you won’t create any more problems. They will discuss how to care for the appliances and review proper dental hygiene procedures, so everything runs smoothly. Appointments are usually scheduled every 6 to 10 weeks to determine the progress of your teeth and to make any needed adjustments.