4 Questions to Ask at Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Whether you’re an adult or teen, addressing orthodontic problems like crowding and bite misalignment are not only important for your health, but also for your confidence. A straightened smile can go a long way, and although braces and aligners can be a lengthy commitment, they’re well worthwhile. Be prepared for your first appointment by getting the answers you’ll be glad you had as you undergo treatment. Read on for four important questions to ask your orthodontist.

How Long Will My Treatment Take?

While every treatment timeline is different and can depend on a variety of factors, your orthodontist should be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take to achieve the results you’re both aiming for. That way, you can be prepared for the long-haul and have realistic expectations about your journey.

How Often Do I Need to Come in for Check-In Visits?

The frequency that you’ll need to continue visiting your orthodontist throughout your treatment for check-ins will depend on what type of appliance you have. Typically, patients who receive aligners visit every six to eight weeks to pick up their next sets of trays in their treatment. Patients who have braces often have longer follow-up visits, as adjustments to their appliance may need to be made, and they occur every four to eight weeks.

Am I a Candidate for Any Other Orthodontic Treatments?

If you aren’t positive that the orthodontic treatment recommended to you is right for your daily lifestyle and needs, ask if they have any alternatives you could hear about. In the past, your only choice was traditional braces, but today, many patients are also good candidates for Invisalign trays as well, allowing you to choose the option that’s right for you.

What Daily Changes Will I Need to Make When I Start My Treatment?

It’s no surprise that whether you get Invisalign trays or traditional braces, you’ll need to make some adjustments to your daily routine. If you get braces, you’ll need to watch what you eat, avoiding foods that are excessively chewy and sticky because they could break a bracket. For Invisalign aligners, you won’t need to make this adjustment—instead, you’ll need to just remove your trays before you eat and brush your teeth before you put them back in. When you ask your orthodontist this question, they can go over their recommendations and changes you’ll need to make according to what treatment you’re receiving.

By knowing what questions to ask your orthodontist at your first appointment with them, you can better prepare yourself for the smile-straightening journey ahead and gain realistic expectations of the process. This can help you feel more prepared, and as a result, more positive about sticking with it.

About the Author

Dr. Amy Seagraves is our in-house orthodontist at Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. She completed her specialty orthodontic residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago and hasn’t stopped learning since. She dedicates much of her free time to staying up to date with advancements in her field and is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. She likes having fun with her patients and watching their smiles transform alongside their confidence. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 312-766-0995.