First Visit

What happens at my first visit?
This is a time for the orthodontist to listen to the patient's concerns and to provide an orthodontic examination. The orthodontic treatment coordinator will be taking diagnostic records to help the orthodontist determine whether or not treatment is needed and if it is needed, when the best time to start treatment would be. The diagnostic records may consist of x-rays, photographs and impressions, photographs and impressions or "molds" of the teeth. X-rays are taken to look at the root structure of the teeth and how the jaw bones and teeth relate to each other. The photographs are taken to evaluate facial proportions, facial aesthetics and the health of the teeth and gums. The "molds" are used for closer examination of the teeth and how the upper and lower jaws fit together. The records enable the orthodontist to develop an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

Why select an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularites. Orthodontists are dental specialists who have dedicated their professional lives to correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program. This training lasts at least two academic years — sometimes more.

Selecting an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO is your assurance that you have chosen an accredited orthodontist. Only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO).