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Your First Visit
Following the clinical exam, you will learn if treatment is indicated, the optimal time to begin treatment, a preliminary treatment plan, the expected result, and the possible outcome if no orthodontic treatment is initiated. We will also provide you with basic information about the projected length of treatment, as well as fees and financial arrangements. Please be sure to bring your insurance information so that we can give you an estimate of insurance benefit.
A detailed problem list and a customized treatment plan will require a complete set of diagnostic records, including a panoramic x-ray of the teeth and jaw joints, lateral cephalogram of the side of the head (from which specific landmarks are identified and used to measure relationships of the upper and lower jaws and teeth), study models of your teeth, and digital photographs of your face and teeth. Occasionally, a 3-D image of the head and neck is obtained if additional information is required. Our radiographs are taken using our state-of-the-art digital x-ray equipment, which produces the highest quality of diagnostic images while exposing our patients to the least amount of radiation possible. We take pride in ensuring the best orthodontic care with minimal risk to our patients. To prevent any additional absence from school or work, we would be happy to acquire these diagnostic records during your initial visit. What to Bring to Your First Appointment:
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Diagnostic Records Panoramic Radiograph
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What to Expect After Getting Your Braces
Management of Discomfort with Braces One of the most common questions facing both children and adults as they pursue orthodontic treatment is, “Are the braces going to hurt?” Braces do not hurt as they are being placed on the teeth; however, over the next few days, your teeth will become sore and feel tender to biting pressure. This is your body’s response to an inflammatory process that “softens” the bone and allows the braces to move your teeth. Whatever your initial experience within the first few days after getting your braces, rest assured that everyone ultimately adjusts, and, before you know it, you will be completely comfortable with your braces. Discomfort and soreness can usually be relieved by using a mild over the counter analgesic, such as ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®), and will pass in a few days. Before taking any medication, please read the instructions on the label regarding the appropriate dosage for your size and age, and any side effects. Please seek advice from your health care providers if you have any questions. These over the counter medications are often more effective when taken shortly before your orthodontic appointment. |
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 Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated for the first few weeks as you become accustomed to your new braces. Rinsing with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water), hydrogen peroxide (Peroxyl®), or Rincinol™, and using topical anesthetic compounds such as Orabase® or Anbesol® may help to soothe the area until lip and cheek tissues toughen up and you adjust to the appliances. Some people have allergies to these medications, so please follow the instructions and the advice of your health care professionals before using them. It may also be helpful to place some orthodontic wax on the offending bracket, wire or hook. Eating soft foods (e.g. Jell-O, pudding, pasta, cooked vegetables, etc.) is also a way to reduce the amount of discomfort immediately after an orthodontic appointment. |
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Don't worry; this is normal, and it is to be expected throughout treatment. Teeth must loosen first before they can be moved. The teeth will again become rigidly fixed once they are held in their final corrected positions with your retainers. |
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During your first visit to our office, we will discuss your concerns, review your medical and dental history, take photos and x-rays as needed, and examine your teeth, smile, facial balance, and jaw joints (TMJs). 
A panoramic x-ray is used to obtain a global view of the upper and lower jaws. This image allows us to identify the location of the teeth (including wisdom teeth), assess the jaw joints (TMJs) and sinuses, and evaluate for the presence or absence of facial pathology.
A cephalometric x-ray is taken to view the position of the upper and lower jaws and teeth in profile. Cephalometric radiographs are also used to monitor growth and development, to determine when growth is complete, and to evaluate the specific effects of orthodontic treatment. 
A tracing of an individual’s cephalometric radiograph outlines the facial bones and teeth By identifying specific skeletal and dental landmarks, we are able to make linear and angular measurements of the teeth and jaws. This information is critical for developing an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. 
Study models are used to determine exactly how the teeth fit together before, during, and after orthodontic treatment. An accurate registration of each patient’s bite is a critical piece of information that ensures an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Study models may be taken during treatment to examine your progress. Our office uses 3-D digital models so they can be transferred efficiently to your general dentist or other dental specialist.
A CT scan of the head and neck is not routinely required by our office but, when indicated, the information obtained from this image is invaluable. The CT image allows us to see all structures of the head and neck in three dimensions. We may request this image for patients with impacted permanent teeth, a history of head and neck trauma, a history of TMD, or other craniofacial anomaly. 
Many patients are anxious about getting braces, mainly because of what they have heard from family members or friends. An explanation about what to expect with braces will often help settle this nervousness. Pain and soreness with braces is the most common concern.
