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What Happens at a Braces Consultation and Evaluation Visit

If you need braces, it’s important to know that not all braces are created equal and not all types will efficiently address your needs. Before any decisions can be made about your orthodontic treatment, you need to have an exam with an orthodontist for an evaluation and consultation. This way, you know exactly what you need and how much each of your options will cost before making this crucial decision. Here’s what you should expect when you go for an orthodontic consultation and evaluation.

The Orthodontic Exam

Your initial consultation will give you the opportunity to meet our team, learn more about orthodontics, receive a complete initial exam, and find out which treatment options will best meet your needs. During your initial orthodontic exam Dr. Thomas will:

• Review your dental and medical history forms
• Perform a complete oral exam, with X-rays, to determine whether treatment is necessary
• Help you create a customized treatment plan

The Purpose of the Initial Examination is to Answer:

• What sort of problems are present, if any, that can be treated by orthodontics?
• When is the proper time to begin treatment?
• What type of treatment is indicated to correct the problem?
• What might happen if the problem(s) are not corrected?
• Will any baby and/or permanent teeth need to be removed?
• How long will treatment take?
• How much will the treatment cost and what are my payment options?

Records

If you have had X-rays taken within the last year (panoramic is best), you should bring these to your orthodontic consultation appointment. Call your dentist and ask for a copy or have them send the x-rays to our office so we don’t need to retake them. Your orthodontist will then go over your dental records, medical history, and X-rays to determine what needs to be done to get you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!

Preliminary Discussion of Orthodontic Treatment Options

During your initial visit, your orthodontist will lay out your options, including what types of braces you are eligible to use during your treatment, the costs of each, how long treatment will take, whether or not any teeth need to be extracted, and more. You are welcome and encouraged to ask any additional questions during this time.

What happens after the initial consultation?

You’re one step closer to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted! After your consultation, we will schedule your first appointment and Dr. Thomas will place your new orthodontic appliances. This appointment generally takes about an hour, and during this time our team will be available to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

Financial Options

Different types of braces have different costs. When your orthodontist sits down with you to discuss your treatment choices, he or she will probably go over your financial options and costs as well. Many orthodontic practices offer discounts or financing plans to help, though many forms of insurance do cover at least part of the cost of braces.

Scheduling Your Records and Delivery

At the end of your consultation appointment, if you are happy with the orthodontist’s recommendations and options, you can then schedule your records appointment.  Some orthodontic offices can do this the same day immediately after your consultation appointment.

During the records appointment, the orthodontist will take a second x-ray (lateral cephalogram), digital scan and photographs of your teeth. You will also have various forms and releases to sign at this time and possibly additional health questions to answer. 

Soon thereafter, you will have another appointment to either have your braces fitted to your teeth or your aligners provided to you (depending on the type of braces you choose).

Ready to Take the First Step? Schedule Your FREE Orthodontic Consultation Today!

At Thomas Orthodontics we offer a free braces consultation appointment that typically takes about 30 minutes. We want you (or your child) to feel comfortable and understood with your orthodontist, and we know how crucial this first visit can be. Our experienced orthodontic professionals will walk with you every step of the way on the path to a better smile. Give us a call today at (727) 202-9292 or use our online scheduling app to book your free consultation!