Your First Orthodontist Appointment
At Callan Orthodontics, we aim to eliminate as much stress as possible by providing high-quality, transparent orthodontic care.
Before Your First Visit
Our orthodontic expertise and variety of treatment options ensure your treatment plan is tailored specifically to your needs. To make sure your first orthodontist appointment goes as smoothly as possible, we ask our patients to fill out the Health History Form and New Patient Form beforehand. You can submit these forms electronically at smile@callanortho.com, or bring physical copies to your appointment.
Because every case—and mouth—is different, we won’t know the exact cost of your orthodontic treatment until after the initial consultation. Financial arrangements are prepared before we begin treatment. It is transparent and comprehensive – there are no hidden fees or additional costs ever. We offer a variety of financing options to ensure that orthodontic treatment is available to anyone.
During Your First Visit
If you don’t have experience with an orthodontist, you may be wondering what happens at your first orthodontist appointment. Contrary to what you might think, you typically do not receive braces at the first appointment.
1. Medical History Overview
The first step is your initial orthodontic consultation where Dr. Callan will go over your medical history, specifically your dental history. If you submitted your forms electronically, this step may be brief; if you bring physical copies with you, Dr. Callan will spend some time going over them. Knowing your dental history will help your orthodontist know what to expect, as well as what treatment options are viable going forward.
2. Oral Examination
Once you’ve had your introductions, you’ll receive an oral examination. This is both to check for orthodontic issues and to check for dental issues that should be treated beforehand, such as a cavity or a cleaning. If necessary, your orthodontist may order X-rays for a more complete look at your mouth and jaw. If you’ve never gotten dental X-rays taken, don’t worry—they’re as simple and painless as taking a photograph.
3. Initial Orthodontic Treatment Plan
Once the initial assessment is finished, Dr. Callan will discuss all findings and relevant information pertaining to your jaws and teeth, explain every aspect of his findings and their significance as it relates to you, and answer any questions you may have. He will present you with a fully customized treatment plan. This plan will cover treatment methods, how long they’ll take, and any alternate options you may have.
4. Questions
After you’re presented with your treatment plan, you’ll have a chance to ask Dr. Callan questions. You may also receive pamphlets on the specific treatment you’ll receive so you can read more about it later.
5. Discussing Payment
Once Dr. Callan has answered your questions, you’ll be able given a comprehensive financial breakdown, including any adjustments for insurance. There’s no way of knowing how much your treatment plan will cost until after the initial orthodontic consultation; however, Callan Orthodontics is flexible and provides several options for treatment, either up-front or in installments. There is never any interest accrued when paying in installments.
After Your First Visit
Once you’ve approved your treatment and payment plans, you’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to begin orthodontic treatment. As a returning patient, you’ll be on schedule to enjoy all the benefits of a straight, healthy smile. We’re excited to welcome you to our Lawrenceville, NJ office and make your orthodontic journey as comfortable and rewarding as we possibly can!
Questions
Peruse the FAQs below to help ease your mind before your first visit.
Can’t find your answer?
Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, most children have several permanent teeth, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.
Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
If you or your child can benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office or send us an e-mail. We will be happy to schedule an orthodontic consultation for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arrival, you’ll be asked for the new patient forms and insurance card. The doctor will then perform a thorough clinical exam. Additional information, such as X-rays or photographs, may be needed for proper diagnosis.
What will I learn from the initial examination?
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:
- Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
- What must be done to correct the problem?
- Will any teeth need to be removed?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?
How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment time lasts from 8-30 months. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 18-24 months.
How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every 4-8 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled 4-8 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with their patient manager before dropping off their child.
Do you give shots?
No. Shots are not necessary for orthodontic treatment.
Can I still play sports?
Yes. We recommend a mouthguard for all sports.
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you.
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a child’s teeth are not yet ready for treatment, we will follow their growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
What is Phase One (early) treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment usually lasts about 6-18 months. The primary objective of Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the “resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.
Will my child need an expander?
Once the initial examination is complete, we will determine whether your child will need an expander.
Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist?
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.
