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THE ORTHODONTIC DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION APPOINTMENT
What we do to get to know you before starting braces...!
When trying to decide exactly what problems will be faced to correct an orthodontic problem, we need information to make decisions. We get that information by taking diagnostic records: (recording of information about each patient using various methods such as x-rays and photographs).
Generally we schedule this appointment for 45 minutes. If the patient is under 18 years of age, we need one parent or guardian to fill out a medical history, otherwise, there is no need for an adult to remain with a child at the diagnositc information appointment. All the procedures are very easy and we try to make this initiation to the office fun for all concerned. So, what specifically is going to be done?
Panoramic digital x-ray: a view of the entire upper and lower jaw and is taken to view the teeth, roots, nerve positions, jaw structures, joints, and locate missing or misplaced teeth. This digital x-ray is used for determining large feature problems, not to look for cavities. This x-ray will be digitally re-produced for printing copies for your dentist, other specialists, and the parent.
Cephalometric digital x-ray: a full side view of the face used to determine the growth direction of the face, to measure the angulations of the teeth, and to see how the upper and lower jaw relate to the face. (All x-rays are done with minimal exposure techniques to reduce radiation to no more than you would get from an hour in the sun at the beach. This x-ray will be digitally re-produced for printing copies for your dentist, other specialists, and the parent.
taken inside the mouth from various angles and clinically oriented facial photos for before and after analysis. Since we use digital photos you will be able to see them immediately. So make sure you look good for this appointment. No hats for bad hair days. All ditigal photos are available for reproduction as needed.
- Digital Photography:
I will not smile. I will not smile. I will not....
written details on how far the teeth protrude, habits like a tongue thrust, or a hundred other variables which need to be noted to make a treatment plan.
- Clinical data:
Preliminary treatment planning: Dr. Richards or Dr. Kriger will make a clinical judgment of exactly what will be done relative to the type of appliances needed.
It takes about ten minutes to process all the records appointment information. If you are comfortable with the diagnosis and treatment plan at the time we take this information, then no formal extensive consultation will be necessary and you may elect to start treatment as soon as possible.
Since we have almost everything in our practice on a computer, we can do consultations on first visits. We'll be happy to sit down with you and explain how and why we do any particular treatment.
An extensive consultation appointment is only necessary when, and if you have additional questions. If you do desire an extensive consultation, which takes place a week after the records appointment, please plan to bring those individuals who will need to make the decision to undergo treatment at that time. Many times children or teenagers already know "everything about braces", and it is the adults who have concerns which need to be addressed. During an extensive consultation appointment is the time to discuss these concerns.
Remember: You may only get one chance to do your orthodontics the right way."
