What to Expect at First Orthodontic Evaluation

Orthodontic Stockton, CA

Orthodontic care has helped people of all ages achieve the smile they want. Treatment can also be effective at correcting jaw conditions, bite dysfunctions and crooked teeth. If you or a child has any of these issues, it could be beneficial to make an appointment with an orthodontist. The right time to meet with one of these professionals is sooner than later. If you are getting ready for your initial visit, it is nice to have preparation and knowledge beforehand.

How patients know it is time to see an orthodontist

Oral care should be as critical to a person as any other aspect of one’s overall well-being. Many oral issues could develop during a person’s life. A dentist can handle many of these, including cavities, tooth infections, or broken or cracked teeth. When a person has crooked teeth, a crowded mouth or bite problems, orthodontic care is the right solution to seek. Anyone with an underbite, overbite, crossbite or improperly aligned teeth should make an appointment with an orthodontist.

Testing the bite

At a patient’s first appointment, the orthodontist will measure the person’s bite. This will help the orthodontist detect any issues that will need correction. A staff member will also take digital photographs to assist with the bite-testing process. The orthodontist will carefully evaluate these procedures for any abnormalities and dysfunctions.

Pictures of teeth

Next, the patient will have a panoramic X-ray of the mouth to give the orthodontist a look at the teeth. This picture will reveal whether the patient is missing any teeth or if any permanent teeth still have not come in. This X-ray will also show the strength of the bones and whether they will be able to handle the force braces will put upon them. If the bones are too weak, it may be necessary to choose a different option to help the teeth and bite.

Impressions

The orthodontist will want to have a good look at the teeth placement. An impression will help accomplish this. The patient will bite into a tray filled with a substance called alginate. This will create a mold of the person’s mouth. From this, the orthodontist will also determine which teeth need prompt attention.

Orthodontic action plan

After the orthodontist has all the essential information about the patient’s teeth and jaw, it will be time for a consultation. The orthodontist will speak to the patient and caregivers about an effective treatment plan. This may involve wearing braces, spacers, elastics, a headgear or retainer. The timeline will also be clear to the patient at this evaluation. The orthodontist will answer any questions and let the patient share concerns at this time.

Get started

The faster you begin treatment to straighten your teeth or fix your jaw, the sooner you’ll have the smile you want. Your orthodontist has the training, knowledge and methods to help you achieve your oral health goals. Your first appointment will help begin the process of care for your teeth. Call your orthodontist today and make an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.brooksideorthodontics.com or call Brookside Orthodontics at (209) 732-1124 for an appointment in our Stockton office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

3 Popular Options For Aesthetic Braces

Thinking of going for orthodontic treatment but worried about unsightly metal braces? Read on to learn about the advantages of aesthetic braces. For decades, patients had no choice but to straighten their teeth with unsightly braces with metal brackets and wires. This had a tremendous impact on their self-esteem, and many decided to forego braces…

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

One method of plugging a gap between teeth is to use space maintainers. If your child is injured or loses their primary teeth before their permanent teeth have a chance to grow in, he or she risks developing dental problems if the resulting area between the teeth is not filled.In children, primary teeth grow before…

4 Reasons To Visit An Invisalign Orthodontist

An Invisalign® orthodontist helps patients achieve a straighter, more attractive smile by fixing minor to moderate complications with teeth and jaw alignment. There are many reasons to consider visiting an orthodontist, and many patients find that the benefits can help them with relationships, their profession and the way they view themselves each day.By understanding the…

Making Braces For Kids Fun

Although receiving orthodontic treatment is not exactly exciting, you can make braces for kids fun. Braces are significantly less noticeable than they were in the past, and some are nearly undetectable. The latest braces are also more comfortable and dependable, allowing kids to focus on the things that matter. Today’s braces provide a wider range…

Recent Posts

Popular Options For Aesthetic Braces

3 Popular Options For Aesthetic Braces

Thinking of going for orthodontic treatment but worried about unsightly metal braces? Read on to learn about the advantages of aesthetic braces. For decades, patients had no choice but to straighten their teeth with unsightly braces with metal brackets and wires. This had a tremendous impact on their self-esteem, and many decided to forego braces…

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

One method of plugging a gap between teeth is to use space maintainers. If your child is injured or loses their primary teeth before their permanent teeth have a chance to grow in, he or she risks developing dental problems if the resulting area between the teeth is not filled.In children, primary teeth grow before…