Are you nervous about your first appointment with your Orthodontist in Lompoc? If so, you can be stress free that almost every patient feels the same when coming to Central Coast Orthodontics for their first visit. It usually isn’t the actual appointment that creates fear and uneasiness. Rather, it is the uncertainty that does it. That is why I would like to take you through the process of your first visit at our office, the process that helps us determine the best orthodontic course of action, and answer any of your concerns.

It Isn’t A Procedure, It Is A Diagnosis.

Your first visit isn’t supposed to be the time when we start fixing anything. Instead, it is meant to help us understand your condition better. This is done by developing a visual representation of your oral structure, including:

• A good and thorough clinical examination
• Advanced digital imaging technology
• Bite analysis

Orthodontics is not just about making your teeth straight; it involves much more complex processes. It is about how teeth work and how jawbones are connected. This is where our expertise lies.

Step 1: Your Story Takes Precedence Over Your Teeth

At this first stage before the exam, I need to know why you’ve come in today. Some patients worry about crowded teeth. Some have problems with bites or jaw pain. Others simply want to be happier with how their smile looks. Everyone has a different reason for coming in for orthodontic care. So, every solution is customized to your needs.

Step 2: Stress-Free Clinical Assessment

Next, we start with the examination. This will involve:

• Assessment of alignment and spacing
• Examination of bites(over, under or cross-bite)
• Evaluation of jaw development and position

Digital imaging or low radiation X-rays can also be used to obtain an extremely accurate image of what’s going on inside your mouth. Our solutions are based on solid facts from the information we gather. And throughout this process, I’ll be explaining everything to you clearly.

Step 3: Getting A Treatment Plan Customized For You

After collecting everything, we will present you with various options. This can be:

Braces – when complicated alignment issues need to be corrected

Invisalign – when you want more flexibility and need a discreet approach.

Sometimes, even monitoring your oral development for a while and then starting treatment is needed. But here is what really matters in our clinic, we do not make decisions based only on the clinical aspects. We look at what’s best for you.

Step 4: Clear Pricing Information

The biggest concerns regarding orthodontic treatment are always associated with prices. And this is quite reasonable. That is why we will provide you with:

• Complete cost analysis and breakdown
• Monthly payments options
• Assistance regarding dental insurance benefits
• Clear numbers and nothing else.

It is amazing how accessible this treatment turns out to be for most patients. To know if your braces can be covered through medical, take a look at this article on if medical covers braces. 

When your appointment comes to a close, you will not feel pressured. If you are ready, we will take the next step in scheduling. If you need some time, that is perfectly okay. Our only goal here is to help you to feel confident and comfortable moving forward.

What Sets This Experience Apart

Other orthodontists have a checklist approach when it comes to treating patients. Our Orthodontist in Lompoc do not follow that process.

We know the importance of:

• Accuracy – Using modern technology for diagnostics and eliminating any doubts
• Individuality – Creating treatment plans customized to individual patients
• Expertise – We have the full knowledge of the procedure

This is how we gain our patients’ trust.

If This Visit Is For Your Child

Early assessment is the most important procedure for us. This is not about determining whether your kid needs braces or not. We assess their development patterns, bone growth, and timing. The sooner it is done, the easier it becomes, and it may even help avoid complications later in life. It provides the opportunity for your child to feel comfortable in an environment rather than an intimidating one.

The Unexpected Aspect

However, when the visit is over, you get one thing certain – “It wasn’t as scary as I expected it to be.”

The more you learn about what’s going on and what’s possible, the less frightening it becomes. If you have been delaying making an appointment because you do not know what to expect, I understand. However, the first visit will be designed to remove all your doubts. No stress. No anxiety. Only information and clarity of purpose. When you have that information, the rest will feel very easy for you..