Wondering what happens at your first orthodontic visit? In short, it is a relaxed, no-pressure appointment where we get to know your smile and you get to know us. You will receive a thorough exam, digital images, an office tour, and a straightforward conversation with Dr. Reese about your options.
This first visit is the free Dr. Reese Smile Analysis, a $275 value, offered with no obligation to start treatment. It exists so you can get real answers and a clear plan before deciding anything.
Knowing what to expect makes the visit even easier. Here is how it usually goes.
Ready to take the first step toward a healthier smile? Visit Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC for leading orthodontic care.
Why does the first visit matter so much?
Your first consultation sets the tone for everything that follows. It is where your orthodontist gathers the information needed to understand your smile, and where you decide whether the practice feels like the right fit for you or your child.
It is also your chance to ask questions without any commitment. Good orthodontic care starts with a clear diagnosis and an honest conversation, and that is exactly what this appointment is built around. You leave knowing what is going on with your teeth and what your realistic options are.
What happens during your first consultation?
Your appointment is designed to be informative and comfortable from the moment you walk in. A typical visit includes:
- A warm welcome and a tour of our Charleston office so you can see where you will be treated.
- A comprehensive orthodontic exam of your teeth, bite, and jaw.
- Low-radiation digital X-rays and photos of your smile.
- A one-on-one conversation with Dr. Reese about what he sees and what your options are.
- Time for your questions, plus a discussion of timelines, payment options, and next steps.
There is no rush and no pressure. The goal is for you to leave understanding your smile and your choices.
You will also get a feel for the practice itself, from the team who will look after you to the technology we use every day. Choosing an orthodontist is a relationship that can last a year or more, so it helps to spend a little time in the office and see whether it feels like the right home for your care.
What should you bring to your appointment?
A little preparation helps you get the most out of the visit. It is helpful to bring:
- Your dental insurance information, if you have coverage.
- Any recent X-rays or records from your general dentist, if available.
- A short list of the things that brought you in, such as crowding, a gap, or bite concerns.
- Any questions you want answered before making a decision.
Will you get X-rays or scans at the first visit?
In most cases, yes. We use Planmeca low-radiation digital X-rays and, when helpful, 3D imaging to see exactly how your teeth and jaw are positioned. This detail is what allows Dr. Reese to build an accurate orthodontic treatment plan that is tailored to your teeth.
What treatment options might be discussed?
Every plan is personalized, but your conversation may touch on options like traditional and clear braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and digitally planned treatment for more complex cases. Dr. Reese will explain which options fit your goals and why, in plain language.
You will also talk through practical details, including roughly how long treatment might take, what it involves day to day, and how the different options compare for your situation. Nothing is decided on the spot unless you are ready. The aim is simply to give you a clear picture so you can make a confident choice on your own timeline.
What questions should you ask at your consultation?
This visit is for you, so come ready to ask about anything on your mind. Helpful questions include:
- Which treatment options are right for my case, and why?
- Roughly how long will treatment take?
- What will daily care and maintenance look like?
- What are my payment options, and do you work with my insurance?
- What happens after treatment to keep my results in place?
We will also handle insurance paperwork on your behalf and walk you through flexible payment options, so the financial side is just as clear as the clinical side.
What if your child is the patient?
First consultations for kids and teens follow the same friendly, low-pressure format, with a little extra attention to how the jaw and teeth are developing. Even if your child is not ready to begin treatment, an early visit lets Dr. Reese monitor growth and catch anything worth watching before it becomes a bigger issue.
We see plenty of young patients from Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, and the surrounding communities, and we make a point of keeping the experience relaxed. The goal is for your child to feel comfortable and for you to leave with a clear understanding of what, if anything, needs to happen next.
How long does the visit take, and what does it cost?
Plan for roughly an hour, which gives us time to examine your smile thoroughly and answer your questions without rushing. Best of all, this first Dr. Reese Smile Analysis is free, a $275 value, so you can get expert insight before committing to anything.
Choose Reese Orthodontics
There is no better way to understand your smile than to see us in person. Your consultation at Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC includes digital scans, a comprehensive exam, an office tour, and a friendly conversation with Dr. Reese. We welcome patients from Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Daniel Island, and across the Lowcountry.
Ready to meet us? Schedule an appointment and start with your complimentary Smile Analysis.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to book a consultation?
No referral is needed. You can contact our office directly to schedule your first visit.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. Your first Dr. Reese Smile Analysis is complimentary, a $275 value, with no obligation to begin treatment.
How early should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by around age 7. At that age, your orthodontist can spot developing issues early, even if treatment is not needed right away.
What if I decide not to start treatment?
That is completely fine. The consultation is meant to give you information, not to pressure you. You are free to take your plan and decide on your own timeline.