Our first visit to an orthodontist can be an exciting and promising experience, especially if we’ve been looking forward to improving our smile for some time. At Arleen Azar-Mehr, D.D.S., M.S. in Northridge, Dr. Azar is always happy to welcome potential new patients and determine which orthodontic services might be a good fit for them.
Goals
During your first orthodontic visit, our primary goals are to introduce you to the doctor, staff, and office, as well as provide information about the available treatments and recommendations for your oral health. The staff at Arleen Azar-Mehr, D.D.S., M.S. takes pride in getting to know each patient individually and determining the best treatment options to meet their specific needs. Your first appointment is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and ensure that Arleen Azar-Mehr, D.D.S., M.S. is the right orthodontic practice for you.
Examination
As part of the initial examination, you can expect a comprehensive assessment of your mouth. The purpose is to evaluate the alignment of your teeth and jaws and determine if they are in the correct positions. It is generally recommended that patients have their first examination by the age of 7, as this allows the orthodontist to assess their current oral health and make predictions about their future dental development. Early intervention can sometimes be beneficial in aligning the teeth and jaws properly, potentially reducing the need for extensive orthodontic work in the future. Regardless of your age at the initial visit, the examination will provide Dr. Azar with valuable information to assess if orthodontic treatment can help you.
In addition to the examination, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, photos, or impressions are typically performed during the first visit. These tests provide a more detailed view of your oral health, including the development of teeth, the condition of the jawbone, and other important factors. By obtaining a comprehensive picture of your oral health, Dr. Azar can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Treatment Options
Next it’s time to let you know if you have issues that can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. If so, treatment might be recommended immediately or delayed based on the developmental stage of your teeth and jaws. All of the treatment options will be presented and you’ll be able to have a full understanding of them before deciding how to proceed.
At this stage, it is important to ask any questions you may have to gain confidence in your orthodontic care. Here are some common questions you might consider asking during your first visit:
When should treatment begin?
What procedures might be necessary?
Do I need any tooth extractions?
How long will the treatment take?
What will be the cost of the treatment, and what are the payment options?
What are the office policies I should expect during my treatment?
Dr. Azar encourages you to ask any additional questions you may have. Feel free to reach out to us with any further questions. We are here to work together and help you achieve your goal of a beautiful smile.