Both children and adults can schedule a braces consultation to learn about their treatment options and the results they can expect from having braces. Since everyone’s smile is different, everyone’s treatment will differ too, so it’s important to have a one-on-one consultation about your condition and options.
However, you may be wondering what to expect from your initial braces consultation. Whether the appointment is for you or your child, continue reading to learn about the basics of how to prepare for your consultation and what you will learn.
Want to find out if you or your child needs braces? Visit Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC for leading orthodontic care.
Do I Need to Prepare for a Braces Consultation?
Medically, there are no required preparations for your initial braces consultation. You don’t need to fast or alter your medication routine at all. The only preparation you need to do is to think about the questions you want to ask your provider.
Your orthodontist will likely review everything you need to know. However, you can prepare questions and write down the answers to ensure you ask everything and remember the details of the consultation later.
Preparing for The Paperwork
The first thing you will do at your braces consultation is fill out paperwork related to your dental and medical history. You’ll likely be asked when your last cleaning was done, when your latest X-rays were taken, and whether you have had any major dental work done in the past.
This is so your provider can get a snapshot of your oral health before proceeding with your braces treatment. If you have not had a checkup in a while, they may delay your treatment until you can see a dentist.
The reason they do this is that cavities and other dental issues should be treated before getting braces, since these problems can worsen. Bring your dental insurance card to your consultation so your orthodontist can get up to speed with your treatment history.
Will There Be an Exam?
After filling out the paperwork, your orthodontist will examine you. This will likely include 3D imaging, especially if you have not had recent X-rays taken. Your orthodontist will look at your teeth and jaw as well to note any irregularities and begin planning your treatment.
The orthodontist will also conduct an oral exam, involving tools that can check your gum line and teeth. They may ask you questions about work you’ve already had done.
The exam will also involve casting a dental mold. Your orthodontist will insert a mold filled with dental putty into your mouth, which will give them a concrete demonstration of your starting condition.
What is a Braces Consultation?
After the exam and discussion, your orthodontist will cover four main topics at your braces consultation: treatment plan, questions, payment, and schedule.
Treatment Plan
Based on your records and exam, your doctor will formulate a treatment plan for you, which could include a trip to the dentist to start.
This is also where your provider will talk to you about the available treatment options, including which are the right fit for your condition. This could include not only conventional metal braces but also ceramic ones, lingual braces (which attach to the back of the teeth), and Invisalign.
Not all these methods can treat the same issues and not all of them are covered by all insurance plans, so they may not all be recommended to you. They also vary widely in price, regardless of their coverage, so your ability to pay for them will also factor into your doctor’s recommendation.
Questions
This is when you can ask the orthodontist any questions you may have about your treatment. They will answer them as well as provide materials to help you remember what you talked about.
Payment
Your orthodontist will then review payments with you, including how you will be billed, what will be covered, and the options you have to pay. Financing is often available to help you get the treatment you need.
No matter your means, your orthodontist can recommend the best course of treatment for your situation.
Schedule
Finally, your orthodontist will complete your braces consultation by scheduling your first appointment, if applicable. This is the appointment where you will get your braces and begin treatment.
Your provider will talk to you about the necessary steps to begin your treatment, including any dental work you may need.
Choose Reese Orthodontics
If you’re an adult who is considering braces, you need professional advice on your treatment and payment options. For orthodontic treatments in Charleston, SC, Reese Orthodontics offers the latest technology and treatment plans. Our advanced and comfortable orthodontic treatments can be customized to suit your needs. A consultation with Reese Orthodontics includes scans, a comprehensive exam, and a conversation with the orthodontist to discover which treatment options are right for you.
Schedule an appointment with us today to stay ahead of your oral health and receive the best possible treatment in your area.