Your Orthodontic Consultation: What to Expect and Commonly Asked Questions
Welcome to Brinley! To help you feel more comfortable and confident, we’ve put together a guide on what you can expect during your first consultation and answered some of the most common questions we hear from our patients.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
Arrival and Paperwork
As soon as you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted with a smile by one of our friendly staff members. If you haven’t had a chance to fill out your paperwork beforehand (sent via email or text), no worries! You can complete it in our cozy waiting area before we get started.
Office Tour and Diagnostic X-rays
One of our awesome clinical staff will give you a quick tour of our office, making sure you feel right at home. We’ll then take some diagnostic x-rays to get a clear picture of your oral health and see what’s going on beneath the surface.
Consultation Room and Photos
Next, you’ll head to a consultation room where one of our treatment coordinators will snap some intraoral and facial photos. This helps us understand your unique needs and goals.
Discussion with Treatment Coordinator
Your treatment coordinator will chat with you about your goals and any concerns you might have. They’ll then take your records to the doctor to review.
Review with Doctor and Treatment Recommendations
Both your treatment coordinator and doctor will come back to discuss your case with you. The doctor will share their treatment recommendations and answer any questions you might have.
Financial Proposal and Treatment Plan Details
Your treatment coordinator will then go over a financial proposal with different payment options, so you can find what works best for you. They’ll also explain the treatment plan in detail, using models of teeth, examples of appliances, and educational videos to make everything super clear.
Scheduling Your Next Appointment
Once everything is planned, explained, and reviewed, we’ll help you schedule your next appointment so you can start your personalized treatment plan.
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Does getting braces hurt?
It’s normal to feel some discomfort when you first get braces and after adjustments, but this usually goes away in a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help if you need it.
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How long will my treatment last?
Treatment time varies from person to person, but on average, it can last between 12 to 24 months. Your doctor will give you a more specific timeline during your consultation.
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What can’t I eat?
You’ll need to avoid certain foods that can damage your braces or cause discomfort. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods like nuts, caramel, and gum are on the no-go list. Don’t worry, we’ll give you a detailed list of foods to avoid.
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Braces vs. Invisalign: Which is better for me?
Both braces and Invisalign are great options, each with its own benefits. Traditional braces are fantastic for complex cases, while Invisalign offers a more discreet and comfortable alternative. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on your needs.
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Are metal braces and clear braces the same? Do clear braces stain?
Both types of braces work the same way, but clear braces are less noticeable. While the brackets themselves don't stain, the elastic ties that hold the wires can. However, these ties are typically changed at each appointment, usually every month, so staining isn't a long-term concern. Good oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods can help keep everything looking fresh between visits.
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Is there a payment plan or any advantage to paying in full?
We offer flexible payment plans to make treatment more affordable. Sometimes, paying in full upfront can get you a discount. Our treatment coordinator will discuss all the financial options with you.
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Will I need a mouth guard for sports?
If you play sports, it’s important to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and braces. Talk to your orthodontist about the best mouth guard options to ensure your braces stay safe while playing. They’ll recommend the right fit for you.
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Will I need to wear a retainer and for how long?
Yes, wearing a retainer after braces is crucial to maintain your new smile. The duration varies, but initially, you may need to wear it full-time, then gradually switch to nighttime wear as advised by your doctor.
Commonly Asked Questions
We hope this guide helps you feel ready for your consultation. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way to a healthier, more beautiful smile!
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- Friday
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- Sat - Sun
- Closed