Are you considering orthodontics to straighten your smile? Good choice!
Studies show that most people are self-conscious of their smiles, which can impact their mental well-being.
But before your first orthodontist consultation, you’ll want to know what to expect. Keep reading for five awesome tips to get you prepared for your initial appointment.
1. Fill out the Paperwork Before Your Visit
Believe it or not, there’s a pretty extensive part of the process that takes place before you even meet with your doctor. When you first arrive, you’ll need to fill out a packet of paperwork that includes basic information like a rundown of your overall health, your contact info, and your insurance.
While these packets are easy enough to fill out, they can be quite time-consuming. To save yourself some time and make sure you get to see the orthodontist as quickly as possible, print the packet at home and fill it out ahead of time.
That way, you can walk in on the day of your appointment with everything ready.
2. It’ll Take a While
Your initial appointment will take longer than those you’ll have in the future. As such, you’ll want to block out a good chunk of time to make sure you’re not rushed.
First, you and your orthodontist will go over the information packet provided in the previous step. This is important, especially if you have any allergies or medical complications.
Next, they’ll take x-rays of your teeth. You may also have to bite down on a plate filled with a putty-like substance. This is to create a mold of your teeth.
3. Bring Some Mouthwash
While we’re talking about dental imaging, you should go ahead and prepare for an awful taste during the molding process.
Imagine a taste halfway between stale bubblegum and plastic. Yep, it’s that pleasant.
If you have a sensitive gag reflex, tell the orthodontist or nurse ahead of time. They have to fill the plate to include the roof of your mouth and the material can cause you to gag in some cases.
4. Explore More Options Than Just Braces
Orthodontists are synonymous with braces at this point. But metal brackets aren’t the only way you can straighten your teeth.
Straightening trays like Invisalign are just as effective! Plus, they’re often as affordable (if not more), and take about half as much time as traditional brackets.
And since straightening trays are transparent, you can keep smiling confidently throughout the process.
Make sure to ask if your orthodontist is an Invisalign provider.
5. Come With Questions
Your consultation is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have, be it about orthodontics or oral health in general. Your doctor is a great source of wisdom, so take advantage of this time with them.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to voice them.
What to Expect From Your First Orthodontist Consultation
Your orthodontist consultation will be a breeze as long as you know what to expect! And before you know it, you’ll have the beautiful, radiant smile you’ve always dreamt of Horsforth Clinic is a good choice for orthodontists if you are looking for private dentist in Leeds.
Make sure to check out our blog for tons of other great healthcare tips so you maximize your lifestyle!
