Associates in Orthodontics: Visits

Initial Visit
Girl with Braces Children and Adolescents:
At the first visit, the doctor will examine the general condition of the jaws and teeth. If treatment is needed at this time, an appointment for full diagnostic records will be scheduled. Should a child not be ready for treatment at the initial appointment but may need treatment in the future, we will set up a recall appointment to monitor growth and development. A letter outlining the doctor's preliminary findings will be forwarded to your child's general dentist. There is no charge for this initial visit. You do not need a direct referral to set up an initial evaluation.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child be evaluated at age 7, even if the general dentist has not made such a recommendation. This is an excellent time to start monitoring a child's growth patterns and to recognize the development of early problems such as small jaw structure or improper bites. Some children will benefit from early interceptive treatment. For children who do not need early treatment, full orthodontic treatment can be started later and accomplished in one comprehensive phase.

Adults:
Woman Smiling If you think braces are just for kids, think again. The fact is, many of our patients are adults. That's because today, thanks to the newest technologies, correcting problems is possible at any age. At Associates in Orthodontics, we take pride in treating adults of all ages as well as children. Modern orthodontic treatment is more comfortable, less visible and often requires fewer appointments than you might expect. Some of these treatment options allow us to obtain dramatic results in facial appearance—even in the most severe cases. On your initial visit, you will receive a thorough clinical evaluation regarding your teeth and their relationship, facial bone structures and jaw joints. After your evaluation, we will review our preliminary findings with you, providing as much information as possible from our clinical exam all at no charge.

Records
Orthodontic records consist of study casts of the teeth, facial and dental photographs, and two specialized orthodontic x-rays. These records allow our team of orthodontists to formulate a full diagnosis and treatment plan which will be presented to you at the consultation appointment. The records are done in our So. Burlington, Essex and Middlebury offices due to the specific x-ray equipment needed. (All other appointments can be scheduled in the most convenient office for you.)

Consultation
During the consultation appointment, you will receive extensive information about the records, treatment recommendations, patient responsibilities and expectations, estimated treatment time, fee, and payment options. This appointment is typically presented by the treatment coordinator and the doctor. It is an important appointment for the patient and family members.

Monitoring Growth and Development

Pre-Ortho Guidance Program
The timing of treatment is very important in obtaining an ideal result. Assessment of facial growth and supervision of eruption of permanent teeth helps to achieve results which may otherwise be unattainable if treatment were initiated after the jaws have completed growth. The Pre-Orthodontic Guidance program is free of charge during a child's growth and development.

Family Care Program
When a family member is established with our practice, we feel a responsibility to the entire family to avoid, reduce or correct any potential orthodontic problems. We provide all family members with an orthodontic examination at no charge. We see family members at all ages and find it advantageous to the younger family members to examine them by age seven, if possible. There is no obligation on your part to have treatment, it's just our way of making sure that everything is all right.