Your First Visit

The aim of your first visit is to find out whether you could benefit from orthodontic treatment and if so when would be the best time to start.

When you arrive for your appointment our staff will make you welcome and ask you to complete a  New Patient Questionnaire, if you have not already done so. You will then meet your orthodontist who will talk with you about your concerns and expectations. The consultant orthodontist will examine your face, jaws and teeth as well as assessing how these structures function and  fit together.

If no treatment is needed at this time, but may be required in the future, we will take photographs of your face and mouth and arrange a review visit for a later date. Review visits will be at no extra charge and you will normally receive a reminder before the appointment is due.

If the examination suggests that treatment should commence soon, your orthodontist will arrange for photos and impressions for models to be taken and refer you for x-rays.  These records will aid the detailed diagnosis of your individual needs before preparing a personalised treatment plan.  The initial visit is usually 30 - 45 minutes in duration.

The orthodontist will discuss any cosmetic and functional treatment benefits from orthodontics and the ideal timing and duration of care.  Treatment alternatives can also be discussed at this time.  If treatment is more complicated a  second consultation may be scheduled to allow your orthodontist time to examine and analyse your records as well as to give you time to consider your alternatives. At this subsequent visit treatment options will be discussed in more detail and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions and to further discuss your concerns. Payment options can also be discussed at these consultations.

Successful orthodontics can only be achieved with your cooperation. That is why we work with you to ensure that you understand each part of the treatment. We are always available to answer your questions and keep you updated on treatment progress.