Your first visit to an Orthodontist
Before you come to see the orthodontist you may have some questions you would like
answered about this first visit.
Why have I been referred to the orthodontist?
Your dentist would like specialist advice about the position of your teeth. The
orthodontist will advise whether you would benefit from orthodontic treatment.
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment usually involves the wearing of braces (removable or fixed)
often the extraction of teeth, and very occasionally jaw surgery.
Why might I need orthodontic treatment?
There are 3 main reasons for having orthodontic treatment:
To improve the appearance of the teeth.
To improve function i.e. to make it easier to eat.
To improve the health of the teeth and gums.
What will happen at my first appointment?
It is likely the orthodontist will have a look at your mouth and teeth using a small
mouth mirror and a ruler. X-rays, photographs and moulds (impressions) may also
be taken. All of these measurements and records will help the orthodontist decide
which is the best treatment for you.
What will happen next?
There are likely to be four possible outcomes, each of which will be explained to
you in plain and simple language by the orthodontist. These include:
You are not yet ready for treatment, in which case you may need to see the orthodontist
again when you are older.
Your dental health is not good enough. This may be due to poor toothbrushing or
decayed teeth. Your dentist may send you to the orthodontist again when things have
improved.
You do not need treatment because the position of your teeth is perfectly acceptable,
or expected to be.
You are ready for treatment and need to decide whether to go ahead.
What happens if I am ready to start treatment?
The orthodontist will explain:
The options for treatment and which is the best for you.
The pros and cons of treatment.
The length of time the treatment will take.
The commitment needed on your part if treatment is to be successful.
When you can expect the treatment to begin.
At this point you will be given the chance to ask any questions. If you would like
to go ahead with the treatment, the orthodontist may ask for written consent.
When will treatment start?
This will depend on:
How many of your adult teeth have come through. Many treatments are best left until
the adult teeth have replaced the first teeth.
Problems with toothbrushing or tooth decay which may have to be dealt with.
The length of any waiting list for the particular orthodontic treatment you need.
The degree of urgency for your particular case. For example, certain types of bite
are best treated while you are growing fast and would be given priority. Other types
of treatment may need to be delayed until growth of the face has almost stopped.
Your orthodontist will explain the exact timing of the treatment for you.
Who will carry out the treatment?
All new and review patients will be seen by the orthodontist, who will carry out
the orthodontic diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan accordingly. If you decide
to go ahead with the proposed plan, most of your treatment will be carried out by
the other members of the orthodontic team.
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