Going anywhere for the first time can be frightening, whether you are an adult or not. Therefore, it is helpful to know what you can expect while visiting a doctor for the first time or an orthodontist in Lakeview. Then, you will feel more comfortable about this important visit and will be able to relax before and during the visit.
Listen
The first thing that will happen at your appointment is that the dentist will ask you what the problem is and will listen fully to what you have to say. You should either have notes or memorize all the problems that have been occurring. It can be helpful to write down the problem as you experience it, noting what time of day and what you were doing when the problem occurred.
X-Rays and Photographs
The next step of the appointment is to take any dental photos and x-rays that are necessary. Most new patients will require x-rays and photos so that the doctor can get a good idea of your mouth’s composition and start making preliminary treatment plans. Without good pictures of the problem, it may be difficult for them to determine which treatment option is best.
Exam
The exam is one of the most important parts of the appointment. The Lakeview orthodontist may need to press lightly on your teeth to see if there is pain. They may also need to use flashlights and other mouth instruments to get a full view of the mouth and the problems. They may place a gloved finger into the mouth to move away the cheek for a better look and to press onto the tooth.
Treatment Options
Treatment options will be different for each patient and will depend on the problems you face. Typical treatments orthodontists will offer includes braces, invisible aligners, and retainers. However, other treatments may be necessary before the primary treatment option can be done. For example, filing of the teeth may be needed in order to place the metal braces or a cleaning may be required before anything else can be done.
Questions
Before, during and after the exam, you may ask questions about anything the doctor is doing or about treatment plans and options. Orthodontists want you to be curious about what they’re doing and should be able to answer all your questions.
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