Your First Orthodontist Visit
Our objective is to make sure your visits with us are pleasant and informative. Your initial appointment will consist of an examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. This important visit will address the orthodontic needs of you or your child.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:
- Any x-rays (of the face or jaw)
- If you have medical or dental insurance, please bring your insurance card
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.)
Diagnostic Records & Treatment Planning
If it is determined that treatment is necessary, you will be scheduled for diagnostic records. These records usually consist of study models, diagnostic photographs, and orthodontic x-rays. Once these orthodontic records have been obtained, Dr. Hoyos will review them and determine a specific treatment plan for your orthodontic needs. Our office will give you a call to review your treatment plan, set up the necessary appointments to begin your orthodontic treatment, and make financial arrangements for you.
Periodic Visits
Periodic visits are an important part of orthodontic treatment. Generally, we will schedule to see you every 4 to 8 weeks to check your progress and make adjustments to your braces. During this time, you will need to show up to appointments, follow instructions, eat “braces friendly” food (nothing too hard), and practice good oral hygiene. Your orthodontist does not replace your dentist, so continue to visit your dentist regularly!
Once your braces are removed, retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions. The retention period is an important part of your overall treatment and should not be neglected!
Length of Treatment
The average time period for braces is roughly 18 to 24 months, though braces may be on between 6 months to 30 months or longer depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the problem, the patient’s cooperation, and the degree of movement necessary.
Dental Care
Before any orthodontic treatment, your family dentist should make certain that any cavities have been treated, your gums are healthy, and underlying bone is free of periodontal disease.
If necessary, your dentist or an oral surgeon can remove any teeth that Dr. Hoyos has prescribed to correct your bite. Your family dentist should also schedule cleaning and cavity checkup visits during your orthodontic care. We would like to reinforce the need to keep your regular visits with your family dentist because we are only an aid to your family dentist and not a replacement.
Please contact our office at Rossana Hoyos Orthodontics Phone Number 954-450-0303 if you have any questions. The timing of your treatment is very important. You may or may not be ready for treatment. Therefore, a consultation will allow us to better understand your needs.