What to Expect at Your First Orthodontist Appointment
There are various reasons to receive braces/aligners (like Invisalign), including for your bite, to address crowding, spacing, and/or cosmetic purposes. Considering braces or aligners like aligners (like Invisalign) or Brava by Brius, you might wonder what to expect at your first orthodontist appointment.
Since this is brand new, you might have fears about what to expect. While it might feel overwhelming, the right orthodontist will make you comfortable, answer your questions, and more. Read this guide on what to expect at your first appointment today!
What To Expect The First Orthodontist Visit
Your orthodontic consultation may include x-rays, photographs of your face and teeth, and an exam by the doctor. Any general questions you might have will be answered.
Typical questions might include the following:
- Payment options
- Treatment options if more than one is possible
- If your condition can be treatable with braces/aligners
- If any permanent teeth need removal
- Treatment procedures that’ll be used
- Whether treatment should occur now or wait
Dental X-Rays
Current X-rays have minimal radiation. Taking multiple X-rays is not harmful. However, if you have several appointments, bringing a recent diagnostic X-ray taken within the last six months is advisable.
Introductions
Fill out the necessary paperwork, including your medical and dental history and past issues. You’ll meet the staff and ask questions. The goal is to ensure you feel comfortable. You can also receive a tour of the office.
Treatment Plan
After all necessary paperwork is filled out, all X-rays and photos are taken, and the orthodontist looks at your mouth, they can develop a plan or plans. They’ll discuss why treatment is needed (as well as what might happen if no treatment is rendered), the proposed treatment, if there are options, and how long it should take.
Once that’s handled, you’ll schedule your next visit. This is when you’ll get to plan out treatment with the team.
Financial Options
During your appointment, they will discuss financing options. Bring your insurance card to receive an estimate of costs. They will let you know the down payment for treatment. If the down payment is too high, you can request a lower one, and your monthly obligation will increase. Conversely, you can request a higher one.
Once the financial details are finalized, it’s time to make an appointment. Orthodontists realize your time is precious. Sometimes you can start the same day, if you do not need dental work or you and the doctor are ready to go.
Treatment Options
Aligners (like Invisalign) are popular among teenagers and adults. During your first appointment, your orthodontist can discuss if you’re a candidate for them.
They’re comfortable, easy to use, and virtually undetectable. Since they’re removable, you can take them out to floss, brush, and eat. They should be worn 22 hours a day.
Braces might be required depending on your needs. Your orthodontist will discuss the benefits of braces and how you’ll have straight teeth at the end of the treatment.
Most people are candidates for aligners or braces, but some cases are best treated with aligners, and others are best treated with braces. You may have your heart set on aligners, but braces may be the best option for your case. So go into your consultation with an open mind.
Early Treatment
Early treatment is vital to have the most outstanding results. Although, treatment can happen at any age. Even if your child is too young for braces, an early evaluation is essential. Orthodontists can then come up with an action plan as they grow.
Early treatment helps prevent serious problems later. Your skilled orthodontist can help prevent serious problems later and help guide proper development and growth.
Early treatment could help:
- Reduce treatment time with braces
- Decrease the risk of trauma
- Reduce the need for tooth removal
- Create room for crowded teeth
- Influence jaw growth to create facial symmetry
- Leave space for unerupted teeth
Early treatment could save you money and time.
Why Schedule The First Appointment?
A straight smile could mean more self-confidence as a child or an adult. Many states that they feel more confident after treatment.
Misaligned teeth could lead to more serious consequences. Some cons could include tooth loss, gum disease, enamel loss, tooth decay, TMJ, and more. Children and adults might suffer from bullying and low self-esteem due to crooked teeth. Straightening your teeth could help with chewing and speaking problems as well.
You Might Need More Than Braces
You might need more treatment than braces or aligners for those with jaw or other problems. Your orthodontist can guide you or your child in this process.
It could lead to an under, over, or open bite without treatment. These bite issues could lead to changes in facial appearance. Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) or surgery might sometimes be required. An orthodontist can discuss whether TADs or surgery is necessary to achieve the ideal result.
Adult Treatment
Many people hate their smiles. Many adults are choosing to seek treatment for their teeth.
Whether you have a crossbite, crowded teeth, overbite, or something else, an orthodontist can help. Your orthodontist in South Pasadena can help you create a smile you love. They can address crowded teeth before they become worse.
The good news is that aligners (like Invisalign) is a discreet option. You don’t have to worry about smiling and people seeing your braces.
Your First Orthodontist Appointment And What To Expect
This guide provides an overview of what to expect on your first orthodontist appointment. Of course, each appointment can vary depending on your needs and treatment options. Are you ready to say goodbye to hiding your smile and hello to a new you? Then contact us today!
From children to adults, braces to Invisalign, we have various options. During your first appointment, we’ll answer any burning questions you might have. We aim to help you put your mind at ease and receive the proper treatment you deserve and need.