Embarking on a course of orthodontics treatment can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. In order to make sure that your journey to a straighter smile gets off to a smooth start, you should gather as much information about the process as possible.
At your first NYC orthodontist appointment, be prepared to ask questions. If you are well-informed from the beginning of treatment, you’re less likely to encounter problems over the following several months.
Here are a few questions that may be helpful to ask at the initial orthodontist appointment:
What are my options for orthodontic treatment? – Today, patients can choose from a variety of techniques and appliances to straighten their teeth. Discuss your budget and preferences with your orthodontist to see which approach will be most appropriate for your case.
Will I need any treatment beyond my orthodontics? – It’s important to know if any other interventions will be necessary in your case. Patients with severe malocclusions or other jaw malformations may need to have surgery, as may adult patients who need to have the upper jaw expanded to make room for all of the teeth. If you have severe gum disease, you may need to visit a periodontist before the braces can be placed.
Do I need to make any changes to my oral hygiene routine or diet? – Patients who wear traditional braces, including metal or clear brackets, will need to adjust their oral hygiene habits. They may need to brush more often to keep the mouth clear of food particles, and floss threaders will be helpful tools for flossing along the gumline underneath the archwire. Patients may also need to cut out certain foods, such as sweet, sticky substances.
Can you show me results from your previous patients? – Many orthodontists will ask patients for permission to take their pictures and share them with new patients. Although each patient’s case is unique, examining outcomes with previous patients can give you a general idea of your orthodontist’s skills.
You may also want to know how long your orthodontics treatment will take, and you can feel free to ask your orthodontist for an estimated timeline early in the process. If you do, keep in mind that the timeline is likely to change as your treatment progresses and be flexible.
For more information and to schedule a consultation, contact Jackson Heights Orthodontics at 718-335-4444.
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