We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. This important 40-minute visit will give us insight into your particular orthodontic needs. We know that your time is valuable. If you wish to expedite treatment or minimize the number of appointments necessary prior to the start of orthodontic treatment, many of our initial exam times also have time reserved following the exam for diagnostic records. The records include x-rays, photos, and impressions for study models, and are necessary for developing the appropriate treatment plan. This additional appointment will last approximately one hour. If you wish to have the option to have records taken immediately following the exam, please indicate that preference when scheduling your initial exam appointment.

During the initial examination for each patient, we will address the questions listed below that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. As well, we will give you an opportunity and encourage you to ask any questions that you may have regarding orthodontic treatment.
  • Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
  • Is treatment needed now, or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
  • What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
  • Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
  • Approximately how long will treatment take?
  • How much will it cost?
  • What are my payment options?

While we can answer most questions about treatment during the initial examination, we may need to schedule a consultation visit to address specific treatment areas after Dr. Beckwith has done careful analysis of the diagnostic records. In some cases, more than one treatment option is available and it is only after a thorough analysis of the records that Dr. Beckwith can make his recommendation regarding the best treatment plan option for the individual patient. We feel it is important to analyze each patient's specific needs because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.

When your are ready to leave our office at the completion of this first visit, you will have a summary of the specific orthodontic needs, an outline of the planned treatment as well as an estimated length of time for orthodontic treatment.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:

  • Any panoramic x-ray taken within the past 12 months; in most cases, we will call your general dentist to request the x-ray, prior to your visit. Having a recent panoramic film will allow us to give you the most accurate assessment of your orthodontic needs, as well as help in determining the most opportune time to begin any recommended treatment.
  • If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, in most cases we will be able to give you an estimate of your costs including insurance.