Guide to Your First Orthodontist Consultation

Thinking about improving your smile but not sure what happens at the first visit? At Orthodontic Specialist P.C., your orthodontist consultation is simple, friendly, and designed to give you clear answers. Whether you visit the Staten Island, NY or Metuchen, NJ office, the team focuses on comfort, education, and a plan that fits your life.

What happens at an orthodontist consultation

Your initial visit usually includes a careful exam, smile photos, and a conversation about your goals. If needed, a quick X-ray may be taken. In about 45 minutes, you and the orthodontic team review what orthodontics can fix, if treatment should start now or later, how long it may take, and expected costs. If you decide to move forward, the next step is a records appointment to gather detailed scans and finalize your custom plan. 

Treatment options we may discuss

Every smile is different, so the consultation covers the treatments that fit you best. Depending on your needs, your plan may include:

1. Braces with clear brackets for a more discreet look.
   
2. Invisalign clear aligners for adults and Invisalign Teen for younger patients who want a nearly invisible option.
   
3. Early treatment for growing children, including Invisalign First when appropriate.
   
4. Guided growth and bite correction appliances such as expanders, lip bumper therapy, habit appliances, and facemask therapy, used when needed to create space or correct jaw position.
   
5. Comfort and control add-ons like Forsus springs or small temporary anchorage devices (TADs) that help move teeth efficiently in certain cases.
   
6. Orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery in partnership with surgery specialists for complex jaw concerns, when orthodontics alone is not enough.
   
7. Retainers after active treatment to hold your new smile in place. Options include removable and fixed retainers.

    

Digital scans, not goopy impressions

The office uses an iTero digital scanner to make 3D models of your teeth. This impression-free approach helps create accurate aligners and appliances and makes the appointment more comfortable. 

How often are follow-up visits after the consultation

Your schedule depends on your treatment. Typical visit timing looks like this:

1. Braces adjustments about every 6 to 8 weeks
   
2. Invisalign check-ins about every 8 weeks
3. Phase I appliance visits about every 4 to 8 weeks
   

These time frames help your orthodontist guide steady progress while keeping visits manageable for busy families. 

Simple financing for families

High-quality care can still fit your budget. The practice offers interest-free in-house payment plans, accepts major credit cards, and provides a discount for multiple family members in treatment. The team also helps with insurance paperwork to make the process smoother. 

How to prepare for your visit

Bring a panoramic X-ray from the last year if you have one, plus your dental insurance card. Come with questions about timing, options, and lifestyle needs like sports or musical instruments. The goal is to leave your orthodontist consultation with a clear plan and confidence in your next steps. 

Ready to start your smile journey

If you are in Staten Island, NY or Metuchen, NJ, Orthodontic Specialist P.C. is ready to help with a friendly, informative visit. From clear braces and Invisalign to early treatment and retainers, the team will tailor a plan that fits your goals, budget, and schedule.
Call or text the Staten Island or Metuchen office to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a confident smile.