How To Prepare For Orthodontic Consultation

When you have dental issues that specifically affect your jaw or alignment of your teeth, you might want to see a skilled orthodontist that patients trust to treat your condition. There are many things that an orthodontist specializes in beyond general dentistry, such as bite issues, spacing, and jaw abnormalities. One of the most common types of orthodontist treatment are braces. If you want to know if you need orthodontic treatment, there are some topics that you may want to ask an orthodontist like one at John Redmond Orthodontics during your first consultation.

What do I need to tell the orthodontist?

When you first go in to see an orthodontist, you will want to tell them what kind of pain and issues that you are experiencing. Examples include overcrowded teeth, speech problems, tooth pain, and difficulty chewing food. Tell them how long you have been experiencing your issues and how it is affecting you on a day to day basis. The orthodontist will do an X-ray and other tests to see what is wrong with your teeth based on what you tell them.

What treatment options are suitable for me?

Orthodontic treatment comes in many forms. There are many types of braces available, but there are also aligners, retainers that can be easily removed, and other types of devices. What device is best for you will depend on your specific condition and the severity of your condition. Your preferences will also be taken into account, such as if you prefer clear braces over metal ones. You can discuss your treatment options with the orthodontist once they have a better idea of what type of dental care that you need.

Am I a good candidate for braces? 

With many types of varieties, braces are one of the most effective and efficient types of orthodontic care. You can get clear, invisible braces that are barely noticeable, ceramic braces, or metal braces that are cost-effective. If you have gaps between your teeth, crooked teeth, protruding teeth, or have jaw issues, you might benefit from getting braces. A skilled Orange County, CA orthodontist can tell you more about what kind of braces would be right for you.

How long will treatments last?

The length of time it takes for orthodontic care to be complete varies from patient to patient. If you need braces for example, you may need to wear them for six months, or even a few years depending on how severely crooked or overcrowded your teeth are. Once an orthodontist is able to evaluate you, they can give you a better sense of what kind of care that you need. The quality and effectiveness of your treatment is also dependent on how you care for your teeth once your treatment is complete.

When can I expect to see results?

Many patients begin to see results from orthodontic care just after several months. It depends on your specific dental condition and the extent of the misalignment. Many patients experience results in about a year or a few years.

If you would like to learn more about available orthodontic services that are near you, set up a consultation immediately to learn about your treatment options.