Your First Visit
At the first visit to the orthodontist, you will have an initial exam and talk with the doctor to determine if you are ready for treatment. We typically start treatment when all the permanent teeth have come in, between 11 and 13 years of age, but occasionally early treatment is recommended for children between 8 and 11 years of age. If you decide to pursue treatment, diagnostic records are made during your second visit to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination; plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
Consultation
After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from 30-45 minutes. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 5 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Patients are seen by appointment only.
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