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Child Sits In A Dental Chair While A Dentist Examines Teeth at Charleston West Virginia

First Visit

Your first visit to our orthodontic office is an important step towards achieving a healthy and beautiful smile! While our office may look similar to your regular dentist's office, our focus is on aligning teeth and correcting jaw-related issues. Here's what you can expect during your initial consultation:

Your first Visit to Our Orthodontic

Your first Visit to Orthodontic at Charleston West Virginia

Let's Make a Plan

t this stage, our goal is to determine the best course of treatment for you or your child, based on the findings from today's visit. Here's how the process typically unfolds: 

Photographs 
We begin by capturing regular photographs of the teeth in their current state. These images serve as a visual reference for tracking progress throughout the treatment. 

Radiographic (X-ray) Images 
Next, we take X-rays to get a deeper look at what’s happening below the surface. These images show us the position of the teeth, bones, and joints, as well as the development of any teeth that have yet to emerge.

Impressions or Digital Scans 
In some cases, we may need to take an impression or a digital scan of your teeth. This allows us to create an exact replica of your bite, helping us pinpoint any misalignments or issues more accurately. If using the traditional method, we’ll ask you to bite down on a soft, putty-like material for a short time, which we then use to make a mold. If we opt for a digital scan, it's a quick and painless process involving a handheld scanner that creates a 3D model of your teeth. 

Comprehensive Examination 
With the photographs, X-rays, and impressions or scans in hand, we’ll conduct a thorough examination of the mouth. During this exam, we might ask specific questions about jaw movement (e.g., does the jaw make any noise when opening or closing?) and inquire about any issues with chewing or swallowing. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Plan 
By combining all of this information, we’ll make a precise diagnosis. Whether treatment should begin immediately or be delayed, we’ll explain all options and finalize a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

This thorough evaluation helps ensure the treatment plan is accurate and effective for achieving the best possible results!

Representation Of A Dental Implant Within The Mouth at Charleston West Virginia

Discussing Your Options

After the exam, we'll provide a clear picture of the next steps. In some cases, everything may be fine, and no immediate treatment will be necessary. However, if we identify an issue, we may recommend treatment either right away or in the future, depending on the development of your teeth and jaws. 

Timing 
Sometimes, we may suggest periodic checkups before starting treatment. This allows us to monitor changes and determine the optimal time to begin. If treatment is needed immediately, we'll move forward with the plan. If not, we'll schedule follow-up visits to reassess when the timing is right. 

Fees and Payment Options 
Once we have a treatment plan in place, we'll go over the associated costs and present the available payment options. We want you to be fully informed about the financial aspects before proceeding, and we offer flexible payment plans to make the process as smooth as possible.

Your Questions Matter

This is the perfect time to ask any questions you might have. We’re here to explain the process and make sure you feel comfortable moving forward. We can discuss topics like: 

  • Can orthodontic treatment benefit me (or my child)? 
    We'll assess whether orthodontic care is necessary and how it can improve dental health and aesthetics. 
  • What procedures will be used to correct the problem? 
    We’ll walk you through the general procedures, including braces, clear aligners, or other appliances. 
  • What are my treatment options? 
    We’ll explain if multiple treatment paths are available and recommend what’s best for your needs. 
  • Should I start treatment now or wait? 
    We’ll provide guidance on whether it’s best to start immediately or monitor changes before beginning. 
  • Will tooth extraction be necessary? 
    In some cases, extraction is required to create space for proper alignment, but we’ll only recommend it if necessary. 
  • How much will treatment cost, and are payment plans available? 
    We'll give you a clear estimate of costs and explain any flexible payment options. 
  • How long will the treatment take? 
    The timeline varies depending on individual needs, but we’ll provide an estimate based on your specific situation. 

By the time you leave, you’ll have a solid understanding of the treatment process and how we can help you achieve a confident, healthy smile. So why wait? Take the first step and schedule your consultation with us today!