What is Memphis and Collierville’s #1 New Year’s resolution? Well, if it were up to us, we’d say it was getting a straight smile at Saddle Creek Orthodontics! From a boost in confidence to improved oral hygiene, braces and Invisalign offer a wide range of benefits for Dr. Kyle and Dr. John’s patients – and the first step is an orthodontic consult. But what happens at your first orthodontist appointment, and how can you prepare? We’re so glad you asked. Here’s what to expect at your first orthodontic consult from the team that knows best.
#1: Meet the Team
First things first: When you arrive at our office, we’ll meet you with a little old-fashioned Southern hospitality. You’ll get an introduction to the whole team, including our welcome receptionists, clinical assistants, and, of course, Dr. Kyle and Dr. John. We’re a tight-knit team at Saddle Creek Orthodontics, and we like to make all our new patients feel like a part of the bunch, too.
#2: Complete Intake Forms
We know no one likes paperwork. However, it’s important to fill out our initial intake forms at your orthodontic consult so that we get a better understanding of key facts, such as your dental insurance information, oral health history, allergies, and treatment preferences. This information will help us move forward from your first orthodontist appointment by providing a written reference to keep with your patient records.
(Pro tip: rather than waiting until your orthodontic consult to fill out your intake paperwork, why not get ahead of the game? You can fill out either the adult or child patient form online, so you don’t waste any time at your braces consultation.)
#3: Say Cheese for Your Oral Exam
Don’t worry – this isn’t the kind of exam you have to study for! Once we call you back to the exam chair, we’ll conduct a series of assessments to determine your unique growth and development patterns. Your treatment coordinator will take digital photographs of your teeth (that’s right, now that we’re in the 21st century, there’s no need for goopy impressions!) and, if necessary, a panoramic and cephalometric X-ray. These images show the current alignment of your teeth and jaws, as well as the soft tissues that make up your gums.
This is an essential part of your first orthodontic consult, as it helps Dr. Kyle or Dr. John make the best decisions about your treatment plan. Really, you couldn’t have a successful orthodontic consult without it!
#4: Discuss Your Treatment Plan
Now that we’ve got the information we need, Dr. Kyle or Dr. John will review the digital images of your smile behind the scenes before meeting with you in a private consultation room. While you’re in the room, we’ll discuss several housekeeping items: 1) your areas of concern, orthodontics-wise, 2) similar orthodontic cases to yours, along with pictures, to show how we can make your straight smile happen, and 3) financing and insurance options.
You’ll also get the opportunity to ask Dr. Kyle or Dr. John whatever burning questions you have in your heart. Whether it’s about the big stuff, like how long you can expect treatment to last, or the little stuff, like how many elastic color options you have to choose from, we’re here to answer them all so that you feel comfortable moving forward.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Orthodontic Consult FAQs
Do you get braces on your first orthodontist appointment?
Sure, if you want to! At Saddle Creek Orthodontics, we value your time, and we know how excited you are to start your orthodontic treatment journey. If you feel ready at the end of your braces consultation, we’ll be happy to help you move forward without wasting any more time!
However, it’s important to note that Invisalign patients don’t get the same luxury. That’s because your Invisalign trays are specially made to fit your unique smile, and this takes time. But we assure you, the end result will be more than worth it!
Are adults good candidates for orthodontic treatment?
Of course! In fact, Dr. Kyle and Dr. John treat patients of all ages, from seven to seventy! There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment, and according to the American Association of Orthodontists, 1 in 4 orthodontic patients are adults. So, from brides and grooms getting ready for their wedding days to professionals looking for confidence in the boardroom, straight smiles for adults are just an orthodontic consult away.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
Good question. Dr. Kyle and Dr. John follow the American Association of Orthodontists on this one, which means you should bring your child in for their first braces consultation at seven years old. This gives our team the best advantage to determine the exact right time to start treatment – or advise we start early treatment, if necessary.
Is my orthodontic consult free?
Absolutely, your braces consultation is free! We believe everyone deserves access to affordable orthodontic treatment, and to show you we really mean it, you won’t have to pay a dime for your orthodontic consult.
What are my treatment options?
We’re glad you asked! The team at Saddle Creek Orthodontics accommodates many different needs and preferences when it comes to orthodontic treatment, which is why we offer metal braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen. Depending on your unique alignment and treatment complexity, Dr. Kyle and Dr. John may recommend one over the others to give you the best chance at straightening your smile with speed and success.
Let’s Get Started!
Are you pumped to get started with your straight smile journey? We’re excited to help you get there! Don’t forget to fill out your paperwork ahead of time and bring in your list of questions for the doctor – it’s all about you at your orthodontic consult! The only thing between you and your straight smile now is calling to schedule your free consultation – so pick up the phone, and we’ll talk to you soon!
Best,
