What happens during an orthodontic consultation?
Why is it important to have a consultation before orthodontic treatment?
Like every dental procedure and treatment, the process of orthodontics also begins with a long and thorough consultation that addresses every important question on the subject. This is the first and one of the most important steps of orthodontic treatment. In most cases, this is when the patient meets his or her future doctor. Naturally, this is also when the orthodontic specialist meets the patient, or in the case of a child, the child’s relatives, whom he will be continuously treating over a long period of time. Of course, it also sometimes happens that a client who has been a patient in general dentistry decides to start orthodontic treatment. However, even in this case, it is important that during a special appointment we deal exclusively and solely with the matter of aligning the teeth. (In such cases, we can usually waive the assessment of general diseases and the general condition of the dentition.) Whit this said, let’s look at what the most important steps of an orthodontic consultation are, in consecutive chronological order! (At the Netfog Dental Clinic, the orthodontic consultation fee for orthodontics is credited toward the price of the orthodontic treatment.)
1. Discussing general diseases (anamnesis)
Before performing any medical procedure, it is extremely important for us doctors to be aware of the patient’s general state of health, to know about any possible allergies, and to learn what medications they take regularly. It is important to mention past surgeries, major medical interventions, and in the case of women, whether someone is expecting a baby.
2. Discussion with the patient about their expectations regarding orthodontics
If I had to highlight one thing from my many years of experience that is the most important for a successful orthodontic treatment, it would be exactly this topic. In my opinion, this thing is to precisely understand your expectations as a patient, your goals, and the underlying motivation that drives you to begin the treatment. Without understanding these, the dentist may not necessarily guide the treatment process in the right direction or with the proper methods.
3. Examination of the general condition of the teeth and the oral cavity
Although some people are interested only in the topic of getting their teeth straight, it is impossible to create an accurate and safe orthodontic treatment plan without examining the teeth and the periodontium. For example, orthodontic treatment cannot be started in the presence of decayed teeth or tartar. In the case of a weakened periodontium, we may need a colleague specialized in periodontal diseases (a periodontist), and the treatment plan must also be adjusted accordingly. Oral surgery may also be necessary if we find a tooth that needs to be surgically removed or extracted. In short, before starting orthodontics, we must address general dental problems. This is in the patient’s best interest, and for the dentist it is an obligation by profession.
4. Examination of the positioning of the teeth and the contact between the lower and upper dental arches (occlusion).
Since orthodontics involves aligning teeth and correcting bite irregularities, it is extremely important to form an accurate picture of the initial condition. Based on this, we visualize the goal of the treatment and decide how we can achieve this goal.
5. Taking and evaluating X-ray images
X-ray diagnostics are an essential component of the orthodontic consultation. Before starting any treatment, it is necessary to take at least a panoramic X-ray (Panorex). With its help, we can detect the presence of teeth stuck in the jaw or missing teeth (aplasia), and we can also notice general dental problems such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. As a supplement, we may take a cephalometric X-ray or even a 3-dimensional CT scan.
6. “Photographing” the teeth with an intraoral scanner
Before clear aligner (Invisalign) treatment, it is necessary to scan the teeth and oral structures, based on which we can prepare the digital treatment plan. If the patient decides on Invisalign treatment, then the aligners are also manufactured in the laboratory based on the information stored during the scanning (digital impression). You can get more information about the intraoral scanner by clicking HERE.
7. Explaining the treatment plan.
Based on all the information obtained during the previously mentioned examinations, the orthodontic specialist prepares the treatment plan. This plan is presented to you in a clear and understandable manner, and the doctor explains what problems the orthodontic procedure will aim to solve and what final result can be expected at the end of the treatment. Naturally, you can also ask your questions and make suggestions to modify the plan. If these changes are allowed by professional standards, then your dentist will modify the treatment plan accordingly. Since there is no such thing as a bad comment or too many questions, we encourage every patient to actively participate in the planning process. Over the years, I have received countless useful pieces of information from my patients, and their questions have often shed light on important matters that might otherwise have been overlooked.
What is the next step after the consultation?
The patient can choose between two options after receiving the price quote and all the information regarding their teeth and the orthodontic treatment plan. If he or she decides to start the treatment, then we schedule the appointment to begin with the orthodontic procedure. He or she may also choose to think over what they heard and request an appointment for a follow-up consultation. At our Netfog Dental Clinic, the follow-up consultation is free of charge (and the price of the first consultation is deducted from the cost of the orthodontic appliance), so it is worth taking advantage of this option if you need time to think before starting orthodontics. If we have piqued your interest and you would like to visit our clinic for a consultation, then you can request an appointment by clicking HERE.