Your First Visit at North Potomac Orthodontics
“The greatest self is a peaceful smile, that always sees the world smiling back.” – Bryant H. McGill
“Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
No matter who you are, how old you are, or what your current orthodontic situation is, you deserve a beautiful smile you're proud to show off. At the office of Dr. Christine Chen and Dr. Charles C. Harrington, we are committed to helping you achieve that dream smile!
We offer a wide variety of orthodontic treatments like traditional metal braces and Invisalign, and we'll support you through every step of the orthodontic treatment process – but it all begins with your first visit to our Gaithersburg orthodontist office.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Your first visit with us is an exciting occasion. It's the first part of your orthodontic journey and the first step in achieving a beautiful new smile! We're always excited to meet and get to know new patients during this visit, and we look forward to welcoming you to our practice.
We'll get a thorough understanding of the goals you have for your smile and your orthodontic needs. The doctor will explain your treatment options and take the time to answer any questions you may have. After your exam, you will have plenty of time to take diagnostic records, including x-rays, photographs, and a digital impression. This collects vital information for our doctors to detail a treatment plan to address your unique needs.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
We know your time is valuable, and we're always looking for ways to make the treatment process more manageable. If you have them, we kindly ask you to bring these to your first visit to help expedite the process:
- - Panoramic X-rays of your teeth if you have them on hand (you may also ask your dentist to send these to us).
- - If you have an orthodontic insurance policy, please bring your insurance card. It allows us to discuss your insurance and help you file your claim.
How long will my first appointment with the orthodontist last?
The duration of your first appointment can vary depending on the orthodontist and your specific needs. Generally, it can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This appointment allows the orthodontist to perform an initial examination, discuss your concerns and goals, and determine if further diagnostic tests or consultations are required.
Will I need to have any teeth extracted before starting orthodontic treatment?
In some cases, extracting teeth may be necessary as part of the orthodontic treatment plan. The decision to remove teeth depends on various factors, such as the size of your jaws, the degree of overcrowding, and the alignment of your teeth.
The orthodontist will assess your teeth during your initial examination and determine if extractions are required. If necessary, they will explain the reasons for extraction and discuss the process with you in detail.
Orthodontic Appointments During Treatment
Once your treatment begins, regular appointments with your orthodontist will be necessary to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. The frequency of these appointments may vary depending on your specific treatment plan and the progress of your orthodontic adjustment.
In general, most patients visit their orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks. These appointments allow your orthodontist to assess the progress of your treatment, make any necessary adjustments to your braces or aligners, and monitor the movement of your teeth. They will also address any concerns or questions and provide guidance on oral hygiene and care.
Attending these follow-up appointments as scheduled is crucial to the success of your treatment. By maintaining regular contact with your orthodontist, they can make any necessary modifications to your treatment plan to ensure optimal progress and alignment of your teeth.
It's important to note that the frequency of appointments may vary based on individual circumstances. Some patients may require more frequent visits, especially during certain stages of treatment. Your orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan and provide a specific schedule tailored to your needs.
Schedule a Consultation With Your Gaithersburg Orthodontist
Your first visit is the initial step to a gorgeous new smile, and we're here to guide you through the process. At our Gaithersburg orthodontic office, Dr. Christine Chen and Dr. Charles C. Harrington are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care and helping you achieve the smile you've always wanted.
To schedule a consultation and begin your orthodontic journey, call us at 301-977-1441 or request an appointment online. We'll work with you to create a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that suits your lifestyle and helps you achieve a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Remember, your smile is an invaluable asset, and investing in orthodontic treatment can positively impact your oral health, self-confidence, and overall well-being. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards your dream smile – we're here to support you every step of the way.