Your first visit will start with a clinical exam:

The doctor will perform a visual exam. If you already have radiographs from your regular dental provider, please have them forward a copy or bring it with you. If the doctor notes any concerns with your tooth eruptions, alignment, or jaw growth/development, he will inform you of the initial findings. For some conditions, we actually recommend waiting for a more opportune time to address the issue and place the patient on a recall. In other cases, we may determine that treatment should start and will recommend scheduling a records appointment.

Records appointment:

If time permits, we may take records on the same day as the initial Clinical Exam. Several records are required in order to complete a thorough diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. These include a panoramic and lateral cephalometric radiograph, and impressions of the teeth. We use a 3-D digital scanner to take the impressions, which results in better accuracy and does not create the mess that traditional alginate impressions create; it is also a more pleasant experience, especially for those who have a sensitive gag reflex.

Treatment plan:

After reviewing the records, the doctor will go over the findings with you and explain the treatment plan that he proposes. If time permits, this appointment can be done on the same day as the Records Appointment.

Start of treatment:

Depending on the type of modality you are being treated with, the first appointment may vary. We will explain ahead of time, what to expect at the 1st appointment, as well as the big picture plan (frequency of visits and an estimate of your total treatment duration).

Retention:

At the completion of active treatment, your commitment to keeping your beautiful smile does not end! Most cases will require retainers in order to maintain the results of your treatment. There are various methods of retention, and the doctor will discuss a retention protocol that is best for your unique situation.