The initial appointment is a clinical assessment to determine you or your child’s orthodontic needs. We will review your medical record and dental history and complete a preliminary orthodontic examination. A panoramic radiograph may be taken as well as state-of-the-art facial and intra-oral photographs to aid this exam. We will describe the general development status of you or your child’s jaw structure and teeth and any problems you may have and outline possible treatment options. Our goal is to give you as much information as possible before diagnostic records are taken, but please keep in mind that a detailed treatment plan cannot be put together without additional diagnostic tools.
Future Treatment: If treatment is indicated but the best time for this treatment is in the future, we will recommend a period of observation to monitor growth and development. During this time, some diagnostic records may be required occasionally, e.g. a panoramic or cephalometric radiograph.
Treatment Now: If orthodontic treatment is indicated now, we will need to complete a thorough diagnostic evaluation to plan the treatment. This includes a collection of plaster models of the teeth, bite registration and additional dental X-rays. It may be possible to have these diagnostic records completed the same day as your new patient exam, or we can schedule an appointment at a later date. Dr. Dionne will review all of this information and design a course of treatment that will be presented to you at a consultation appointment. If the patient is a child or juvenile, it is important that a parent or guardian accompany him or her to this appointment. A written confirmation of the treatment fee and an insurance predetermination form will be given to you at this time.