Misaligned teeth are nothing new. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, in 400 BCE, Hippocrates wrote about the irregularities and imperfections in teeth. However, what is fairly recent are the treatments for those irregularities in teeth. If you or your child have crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth, an orthodontist can help you to fix your smile. But, if you have never had orthodontist exams completed before, you may be unsure of what to expect. Here are a few things to know about your first orthodontists exams, also referred to as a consultation.

What Is Completed During the Exam?

During an orthodontic exam, a few important things happen. First off, the orthodontist will physically examine your teeth. They are looking to assess the condition of your teeth and what types of irregularities you have regarding your teeth. Different conditions may require a different course of treatment. Additionally, they need to ensure your teeth are in good general condition. If you have cavities, rot, or other issues, those should be dealt with before orthodontic treatment. An orthodontist will also take x-rays of your teeth during a consultation.

How Long Will the Exam Take?

Your first orthodontic consultation will take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. It depends on the questions you have and the various treatments that need to be discussed with you. If you decide on orthodontic treatment moving forward, most standard orthodontist exams will take about 15 to 30 minutes.

What Is Discussed?

During a consultation, an orthodontist will discuss many different topics with you. First, they will tell you what specific things are being treated, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. The orthodontist will then discuss with you the best treatment options available for you. They should explain to you what they recommend and why, as well as the pros and cons associated with various treatments for your dental irregularities. Lastly, the orthodontist will listen to any questions you have and work hard to answer those questions.

During your first orthodontic exam, an orthodontist will examine your teeth and complete x-rays. All of this will allow the orthodontist to see exactly what is going on with your teeth and what treatments are best suited for you. From there, the orthodontist will discuss a treatment plan with you, ultimately giving you the option to treat with them or not treat with them. If you are looking to fix imperfections in your teeth, schedule an appointment with David Ross Orthodontics. Our goal is to give you the highest quality orthodontic experience that’s personal and unique for your smile.