We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. This important 30-minute visit will give us insight into your orthodontic needs.
New Patient
INFORMATION
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Common
BITE PROBLEMS
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Underbite
The lower jaw extends out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth.
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Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue.
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Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.
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Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times, tooth removal can be avoided.
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Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
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Overbite
The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.
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Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.
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Midlines
This type of problem is caused when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately, which may negatively impact jaw and proper dental function.
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Your First Visit
WHAT TO EXPECT
During the initial examination for each patient, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well. We know your time is valuable, so to expedite treatment, we may also reserve time following the exam for diagnostic records. The records include X-rays, photos and impressions for study models and are necessary for developing the appropriate treatment plan. This additional appointment will last approximately one hour.
WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO ASK QUESTIONS AS WELL. HERE IS A LIST OF HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS:
Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
How long will treatment take?
How much will it cost?
What are my payment options?
While we can often answer these general questions about treatment during the initial examination, we will address specific areas after careful analysis of the diagnostic records. We feel it is important to analyze each patient’s specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.
We will then schedule a consultation visit to discuss treatment options, time frames and financial arrangements. We insist that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment will consist of and how long it will take. Also, we will answer any additional questions.
PLEASE ASSIST US BY PROVIDING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AT THE TIME OF YOUR FIRST VISIT:
Any panoramic X-ray taken within the past six months.
If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you an estimate of your costs.
You can also download, print and complete the patient information forms on this page.