What to Expect at Your First Orthodontist Appointment

An orthodontist specializes in malocclusions, or dental misalignments, that affect the jawbone, teeth, or facial symmetry. If a dentist recommended you or your child for this dental specialist, you may wonder what to expect at the first appointment. While it is a relatively simple process, there are some differences in how the orthodontist and their team operate compared to routine dental visits.

Preparing for the orthodontist appointment

A small amount of preparation is necessary when visiting a new orthodontist's practice. Patients should prepare the necessary information, including:

• Insurance provider
• General dentist information
• Medical and dental history
• Current medication or supplements
• Questions or concerns about orthodontics or their smile

Further, on the day of the appointment, patients should clean their teeth as normal. Brushing thoroughly and flossing to remove unnecessary debris.

Arriving at the orthodontist appointment

Patients should arrive at least 15 minutes before their appointment to complete the necessary paperwork. The front-end office team can walk patients through the process or forms if necessary. These forms help the orthodontist tailor treatment plans and help the entire team provide comfort throughout the consultation and future appointments.

Assessments performed during an orthodontist appointment

Before meeting the orthodontist, their team will perform several assessments or examinations. These assessments include:

• X-rays. Provides a better view of the jawbone teeth' roots, position, and those that may be impacted or trapped below the gum tissue.
• Photographs. Patients will stand in front of the wall so a team member can take pictures of their faces at various angles, assessing facial symmetry and how they looked before beginning treatment.
• Impressions. Patients will bite down on material to create a mold of the teeth, assessing the bite.
• Digital scans. Only used if the team does not take impressions, they will use technology to create a 3D model of the teeth to assess the bite and create custom oral appliances.

Patients will also undergo a physical examination, likely performed by the orthodontist. They will assess the teeth, jaws, and bites to look for any maladies they must address before beginning orthodontics. These can include infection, decay, or disease.

Findings review with the orthodontist

Following the assessment, patients will talk with the orthodontist. The orthodontist will review the patient's condition and make appropriate recommendations. They will also review the pros and cons of each option. This is the time for patients to share their concerns and goals and ask questions regarding their treatment, including the process time, frequency of appointments, and anything else that comes to mind.

Financial consultation

It is important to note that patients will not begin receiving treatment the same day as their consultation, as they must first approve their plan. Patients will discuss all aspects of their recommended treatment plan with a financial office team member. They will review insurance provider information, including what portion of the plan is covered. They will also review any financial aid the practice offers before delivering the total cost of treatment. If the patient is satisfied and accepts the proposed treatment plan, the team member will guide them through the appropriate paperwork before scheduling them for their next appointment to begin their treatment.

Schedule your consultation

Patients can expect to spend approximately 45 minutes to an hour during their first appointment. If you or a loved one is considering orthodontic treatment, call UC Smiles Orthodontics to schedule a consultation. Our orthodontist works with residents in and around the Universal City area to correct misalignments causing problems with oral function, oral health, and facial symmetry.

Request an appointment here: https://universalcity.ucsmilesortho.com or call UC Smiles Orthodontics at (210) 593-7623 for an appointment in our Universal City office.

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