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.
A small amount of preparation is necessary when visiting a new orthodontist's practice. Patients should prepare the necessary information, including:
Further, on the day of the appointment, patients should clean their teeth as normal. Brushing thoroughly and flossing to remove unnecessary debris.
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.
Before meeting the orthodontist, their team will perform several assessments or examinations. These assessments include:
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.
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.
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.
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 {{DBA}} to schedule a consultation. Our orthodontist works with residents in and around the South Gate area to correct misalignments causing problems with oral function, oral health, and facial symmetry.
Request an appointment here: http://embracedentalandortho.com or call Embrace Dental and Orthodontics at (562) 306-0060 for an appointment in our South Gate office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontist in South Gate, CA.
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