Are you considering orthodontic treatment options for yourself or your child? At some point in their lives, the majority of people will require some form of orthodontic treatment. Navigating the process of selecting an orthodontist and understanding what to expect from the consultation can be an overwhelming experience.
However, doing a bit of preliminary research and formulating some questions to ask before you arrive at the appointment is key, as it will ensure that you leave with all the necessary answers while being fully informed along every step of your journey.
Today, we’ll be going over some of the most common questions that you may want to ask during your orthodontist consultation along with some general orthodontic information that you’ll want to know before you go in for your appointment.
What is the Expected Treatment Time?
While some orthodontic procedures can be completed in just one or two visits, many require a course of treatment over a longer period of time. If you’re undergoing any form of long-term treatment, you’ll want to know just how long it will last.
A typical orthodontic treatment will usually last somewhere between a year and 18 months. Some milder cases can require treatment that lasts less than a year, while more severe cases may require treatment that can go as long as two years or even more.
While you can make general predictions regarding how long it will last, the actual span of treatment requires a full examination to determine. During this exam, the orthodontist will review your dental records to help provide a more accurate estimate on the time of treatment for you.
What are the Different Types of Braces Available?
Braces are one of the most common forms of orthodontic treatment. They can be used to treat underbites, overbites, crooked teeth and a number of other dental conditions. If you or your child plans on getting braces to correct your teeth, it’s important to know that there are all different types of braces available.
Based on your condition and needs, your orthodontist will recommend whichever kind of brace they see fit. The main types of braces are clear, ceramic and metal. Invisalign may also be an option for some, but it will typically cost more than other types of treatments.
What are the Risks and Side Effects Associated with Braces?
If you or your child are about to get braces for the first time, the side effects and risks associated with them are sure to be top of mind. At the consultation appointment, your orthodontist can tell you what to expect and if there are any risks or major side effects involved.
Mouth pain is the most common side effect of braces and is usually nothing to worry about. Having said that, if you are experiencing prolonged pain or discomfort, contact your orthodontist to see if the braces can be readjusted.
How Much Will Braces Cost?
With any healthcare-related consultation or procedure, many patients will want to know the costs that are involved and how they can save as much money as possible. With the cost of braces specifically, your orthodontist will likely present you with different prices depending on the type of braces you want to go with and if any other treatment is necessary.
On top of that, there are a number of additional factors that can play into the cost of braces. You can also ask questions like:
- Are there any financing options available?
- In-house or through a third-party lender?
- Is the financing limited to the treatment
- timeline or can it extend past that?
- Is there any interest involved in the financing?
Will Any Pre-Braces Treatments be Necessary?
Sometimes, there are treatments that orthodontists like to pursue before they decide to prescribe braces. These can include spacers, palate expanders or aligners that can help straighten your teeth.
Ask your orthodontist if there are any necessary pre-braces treatments and If so, what would that timeline look like and how much would they cost?
Get an Orthodontic Consultation in Austin, TX
If you or your child has an orthodontic consultation coming up, it’s important to go into it with some general background knowledge and questions that you plan on asking. It’s also important to go to a trusted and established orthodontist who will do their best to treat you or your child.
Celebrate Dental offers the most complete dental and orthodontic care services in the Austin, TX area.
To schedule your own consultation, contact us today.