At the initial appointment

On your first visit, we will have a chance to get acquainted and help you determine if you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Many of your questions can be answered at this appointment and we encourage you to ask about any of your concerns. Our goal at the first visit is to evaluate and determine the need for orthodontic treatment, answer all of your questions, and help you feel comfortable with our office. We value and treat each patient with kindness and respect and work hard to earn your trust. At a minimum, we hope to be able to answer the following questions:

  • Is there a need for orthodontic treatment?
  • Is now the best time to begin treatment?
  • What treatment options are available?
  • What will treatment cost?
  • How long will treatment last?
  • Does my insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

There is no charge for this examination appointment.

If orthodontic treatment is indicated, diagnostic records will be requested. The diagnostic records include photographs, X-rays and models of your teeth. The diagnostic records are needed to enable Dr. Lowry to study the orthodontic problems and develop a customized treatment plan for you. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move while undergoing orthodontic care.

If orthodontic treatment is recommended, costs for treatment will be discussed with various payment options presented.

Appointments after your initial exam

Your sequence of appointments following the initial consultation with Dr. Lowry will be as follows:

1. Diagnostic Records Appointment

In order for Dr. Lowry to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient, diagnostic records must be gathered as the next step to getting braces. Typically this will include photographs of the face and teeth, impressions (molds) of the teeth, and two x-rays: a panoramic film which shows all the teeth at once and a profile film which shows the relationship of the teeth and the jaw bones to the profile. Often we are able to perform the initial exam and take records at the same appointment.

2. Consultation Appointment

During the consultation, Dr. Lowry will explain the type of orthodontic treatment indicated based upon his review of the orthodontic records and clinical findings. He will also address any patient’s and/or parent’s concerns. General office procedures and financial policies will be discussed as necessary. Often patients will have separators placed at the end of the consultation in preparation for beginning treatment.

3. Braces Placement Appointment

You are now ready to get your braces! Your teeth are first polished smooth. Bands are fitted on the back teeth, and braces are “bonded” directly on all the other teeth and a wire is secured into the braces. At this time, we will discuss and demonstrate the proper care of your teeth and braces. This will be one of the longer appointment visits.

4. Adjustment Appointments

Once the braces are in place, you will visit our office to review your treatment progress at intervals of 4-8 weeks, depending on your specific needs. At these appointments, a number of different procedures might be done in order to assure the continued progress of your treatment. This includes the placement of new wires, the use of rubber bands, and the review of home care instructions.

5. Debanding Appointment – Removal of Braces

Upon completion of treatment, the braces will be removed and post-treatment models, x-rays, and pictures are completed. Retainers are then made to hold the teeth in place.

6. Celebrate!

All your hard work and commitment has led to a dazzling new smile! We want to see you showing off your new smile with confidence. You deserve it!