Month: March 2017

Orthodontic treatment with braces, aligners, retainers or other appliances requires a plan. It is much like building a house. If you start building with out a plan, the result is very unpredictable. Care plans for orthodontic treatment range for uncomplicated to very complex. Even limited treatment can affect the entire bite, appearance of the smile, speech or your ability to chew comfortably.

Some time after your first visit with the orthodontist, and after some initial x-rays, photos, molding of the teeth, consultation with your other providers, etc. the orthodontist will present their findings and a plan of care for you. It is important that as you review the care plan with the orthodontist, that it addresses all of your initial concerns.

The best care plan is one that is written down, and you should request/receive a copy of the plan. It should be written in plane language so it is understandable. If there is technical language, ask what it means.

If the care plan does not fully address your concerns, ask to include those in the plan. If you are not sure the plan is complete, or addresses all your concerns, take your time starting care until all your concerns are addressed.

Orthodontic treatment takes months to years to complete. Updating the care plan mid treatment is a good thing to do. Occasionally, unforeseen issues come up which need to be included in the care plan, or the care plan needs to be modified. This is especially true for growing children undergoing active orthodontic care. Facial growth does not always stay on the right track. Orthodontic treatment is a process that needs attention from everyone involved. Stay tuned in and talk with your orthodontist.

To have a winning smile requires excellent communication with your orthodontist. Before you have your first evaluation visit, look at your or your child’s smile and tell the orthodontist what concerns you have.

Orthodontists always ask … “What bring you to us today?” Often the response the orthodontist hears is: “My dentist sent me to see the orthodontist.” While this is a good start, it would be great if the dentist tells you why they have a concern, and that information can be passed on to the orthodontist. Even better, a written note from the dentist is always appreciated and informative.

If the reason for a referral is something the dentist sees on an x-ray, please ask for a copy of the x-ray to take with you to the first orthodontist visit. This will save you time and help the orthodontist provide much better information.

Routinely, the orthodontist will request diagnostic photos, x-rays and molds of the teeth. This information will assist the orthodontist to make a thorough and detailed plan to address your concerns. Your orthodontist may also consult with your dentist or other providers to appreciate a better picture of your needs and desires.

To be continued….