Your Orthodontic Guide
What to expect at your first appointment
A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION FOR A HEALTHIER SMILE
Your first visit to Waldorf Orthodontics helps us to understand your goals and needs. We’ll take the time to get to know you and discuss your goals and concerns so we can find the best treatment options for your smile.
Here’s a closer look at what’s included in your comprehensive orthodontic evaluation:
Discussion About Your Treatment Goals
Every smile is unique. We’ll discuss your goals to determine whether aesthetics, bite function, or both are your priority.
Bite Evaluation
We perform a thorough assessment of how your teeth align and look at how your bite functions. If there are areas of concern, we will let you know what treatment options are available.
Advanced Imaging
Our evaluation includes high-quality dental scans, photographs, and detailed X-rays. This gives us a complete picture of your teeth and jaw.
Panoramic Scans
A panoramic scan provides a full view of your teeth, roots, and jawbone. This helps us to identify if there are any issues, such as crowding or impacted teeth.
Treatment Outcome Simulation
Using advanced digital technology, we create a treatment outcome simulation that shows what your smile can look like after treatment. This gives patients a clear and exciting vision of the results.
Financial Consultation
Our team will guide you through treatment costs, payment options, and insurance support to make orthodontic care affordable and stress-free. By the end of your first appointment, you’ll have a clear understanding of your orthodontic needs and a personalized plan to achieve your healthiest, most confident smile.
Next Steps After Saying Yes
BEGINNING YOUR JOURNEY TO A BETTER SMILE
When you decide to begin treatment, we’ll walk you through the next steps to ensure you have a smooth, stress-free experience.
Treatment Plan Review
First, we’ll review your customized treatment plan. Our team will explain the plan in detail, and they can answer any questions you have.
Starting Treatment
In many cases, treatment can begin on the same day as your consultation. This allows you to get a head start on achieving the dream smile you want.
First Appointment
Your first treatment visit is typically the longest, as we begin setting everything in motion. Whether you’re starting clear aligners, braces, or another service, our team will ensure your comfort every step of the way.
Regular Appointments
After treatment begins, you’ll visit us at regular intervals so we can check how your treatment is progressing and make any adjustments necessary. These appointments are quick, efficient, and essential to keep your treatment on track.
Continue Regular Dental Care
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s still important to see your general dentist for routine dental cleanings and evaluations. This ensures your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout the whole process.
You can be sure your orthodontic treatment at Waldorf Orthodontics is carefully planned and expertly managed. You’re in safe hands with our team.
Our Orthodontics Services:
Guide your smile journey with expert evaluations
Align teeth comfortably with braces or clear aligners
Protect results with retainers and personalized care
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
TREATMENT AS UNIQUE AS YOUR SMILE
The length of orthodontic treatment differs on a case-by-case basis. Every smile is different, however, most patients can expect treatment to take between 18 and 24 months. Some cases may be shorter, while in some cases, additional time might be needed to achieve the results you’re looking for. Throughout the process, our team will keep a close eye on your progress. We will make adjustments along the way and ensure your treatment is on track. Our team is committed to providing care that’s completely tailored to your smile.
What happens if my teen doesn’t follow their Invisalign plan?
SUPPORTING SUCCESS AT EVERY STEP
Invisalign aligners are a fantastic option for teens, offering flexibility and discretion. However, successful results rely on wearing the aligners as directed. If your teen isn’t following the plan, our team can help educate them and work with them to explain why wearing aligners is critical to achieving their smile goals. We’ll encourage and support them to keep on track. In some cases, it’s possible to adjust to a different treatment approach. If your teen isn’t wearing their aligners consistently, we may recommend transitioning to braces. Braces offer consistent treatment progress and reliable results. Switching to braces may incur additional costs, but our priority is ensuring the best outcome for your teen’s smile.
What is interceptive orthodontics?
EARLY CARE FOR GROWING SMILES
Interceptive orthodontics is a proactive way to address dental concerns in children while they’re still growing. By starting early, we can work with a child’s natural development to prevent problems from worsening. Interceptive orthodontics can reduce the need for more complex, time-consuming treatments in adolescence.
Interceptive care focuses on:
- Creating space for permanent teeth to emerge properly
- Correcting issues with dental-facial symmetry
- Improving bite function, including overbites, underbites, and crowding
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. At this age, baby teeth are beginning to make way for permanent teeth. Early intervention can make a big difference to your child’s alignment and allow for more effective treatment later.
After Completing Treatment
MAINTAINING YOUR BEAUTIFUL RESULTS
Finishing treatment is an exciting time, but keeping your smile straight requires proper maintenance. Here’s what comes next:
Final Scans & Retention Plan
We’ll take new scans and develop a personalized retention plan to maintain your results.
Custom Retainers
Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in place. We offer durable, comfortable retainers that are customized to your needs.
Long-Term Support
Teeth can move about over time, so it’s important to wear your retainers for life. If you notice any problems with your retainer, you can call us for adjustments. We can also customize replacements for you when the time comes.
Your smile is an investment!
Waldorf Orthodontics will be there to help you protect it for years to come, from your first consultation to your long-term retention plan. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you achieve a smile that’s healthy and beautiful.
At Waldorf Orthodontics, we accept credit cards, cash, and checks. We also partner with CareCredit to provide affordable financing solutions, making it easier to fit treatment into your budget.
Apply for CareCredit.
Worried about the costs of treatment? During your consultation, we’ll review all the options available to help make your orthodontic treatment as manageable as possible.
