We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office. During this time, we will help you get acquainted with our office and learn about your orthodontic treatment. We understand that each patient's orthodontic treatment is different, and we promise to give you the personal attention you deserve. Your first orthodontic visit will consist of an examination and discussion of potential treatment options. This important visit will address your orthodontic needs to determine if this is the proper time to begin treatment.

Before treatment can be started, a set of diagnostic records is taken to determine the nature of your problem and what can be done to correct it. These procedures are necessary before the patient’s orthodontic problems can be analyzed accurately.

Cephalometric Radiographs

The head radiograph, or cephalometric radiograph, allows us to compare the patient’s tooth and jaw relationships to normal measurements. It also allows us to measure tooth movement and growth changes that are essential to treatment decisions.

Computer analysis of the cephalometric radiograph differentiates tooth and jaw relationships as they compare to the normal measurements for a particular age group and other relative measurements of treatment.

There are other X-rays that will sometimes need to be taken to check the temporomandibular joint (tomogram) and the remaining growth the patient may have (hand-wrist radiograph).

Panoramic Radiograph

The panoramic radiograph is a composite radiograph of the teeth and jaws. It shows, in one film, if the patient has the normal number of teeth, missing teeth, extra teeth and wisdom teeth. Also, from the panoramic radiograph, a prediction can be made of when the permanent teeth will erupt. These X-rays will be taken at regular intervals to notice the changes in the position of the teeth and also to check for resorption of roots, which can sometimes occur in treatment.

Study Models

Models of the teeth, from which plaster study models will be made, are taken at the records appointment (generally the second appointment). These will be used to study the dental problems as they exist at the beginning of treatment. The models are very valuable for reference during pretreatment planning and for the evaluation of progress during active treatment.

Photographs

Frontal and profile photographs are a part of the overall work-up of the case. These facial pictures serve as visual aids for soft tissue analysis. Tooth positioning photographs inside the mouth will also be taken to provide an accurate record of the state of the mouth at the time treatment begins.

Video Imaging

Orthodontics not only results in bite improvement and a cosmetically appealing smile but may also significantly improve facial esthetics and the profile. The use of computerized video imaging is helpful in counseling patients in the variety of options their treatment goals may entail.

After we have evaluated your records, we conduct a treatment consultation to explain all aspects of your treatment in detail. We will provide a complete clinical diagnosis regarding the nature of the problem, a written summary of the findings and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals and estimated fees. We encourage questions from both the patient and the parent, and as such, we provide ample time to answer your questions.