What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Appointment

You think your child—or even you—might need braces. You’ve taken the first step by scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist in Centennial Hills, Spring Valley, Green Valley, Sunrise, Paradise, or South Summerlin. That’s a big deal, and you should feel good about it! But let’s be honest, the unknown can be a little nerve-wracking. Don’t worry—your first consultation with either Dr. Hansen, Dr. Miller, Dr. Benaloul, Dr. Wyatt, Dr. Jolley, or Dr. James is the perfect opportunity to get answers, set expectations, and start experiencing your new smile.

It is helpful to understand what will happen at your first orthodontic appointment at Hansen Miller Orthodontics so you can feel ready and confident walking through the door.

What Can You Expect From the First Orthodontic Appointment?

Think of the first visit as an introduction. It’s a chance to get familiar with the office, meet the team, and get a clearer picture of orthodontic treatment for you or your child. Here’s what typically happens:

  • Friendly Introductions: You’ll be welcomed by the staff, who might offer a quick tour to help you or your child feel comfortable.
  • A Comprehensive Exam: One of our experienced orthodontists—Dr. Hansen, Dr. Miller, Dr. Benaloul, Dr. Wyatt, Dr. Jolley, or Dr. James—will examine the teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. They’ll likely ask your child to bite down so they can assess how the teeth come together.
  • Photos and X-Rays: To get the complete picture, the orthodontist will take photos and x-rays. These tools help identify any underlying issues that may not be visible during the exam.
  • Treatment Discussion: If treatment is needed, the orthodontist will explain the problem, why it’s important to address it, and the best path forward—whether that involves braces, aligners, or other appliances.
  • Planning the Next Steps: The staff will review the proposed treatment plan, discuss costs, and explain financing options or insurance benefits to help you make an informed decision.

By the time you leave, you’ll have a roadmap for treatment, and our team will address any questions or concerns.

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment

Feeling prepared can make a big difference, especially if you’re bringing a nervous child along. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Appointment

How to Address Your Child’s Worries

Kids can sometimes feel anxious about seeing the orthodontist, but a little preparation can go a long way:

  • Walk Them Through the Process: Let them know the orthodontist will look at their teeth, take some pictures, and talk about ways to improve their smile.
  • Focus on the Positives: Remind them that orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about having a healthy, confident smile for life.
  • Plan a Fun Activity: Consider scheduling something fun after the appointment, like a trip to the park or an ice cream treat. It gives them something to look forward to and provides a great way to discuss the appointment afterward.

Questions to Ask

If you’re the patient or a parent, it’s helpful to write down any questions you have beforehand. Some common ones might include:

  • How long will treatment take?
  • Are braces or Invisalign the better option?
  • Will teeth need to be removed?
  • How much will it cost?
  • What does daily care look like with braces or aligners?

Having these questions ready can make the appointment more productive and ensure you leave with clarity.

What Happens After the Consultation?

If you decide to move forward with treatment at Hansen Miller Orthodontics, the next step is scheduling an appointment to begin. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Placing the Appliances: At your next visit, the orthodontist will apply the braces, fit the aligners, or provide any other appliances needed for treatment.
  • Learning About Care: The team will show you or your child how to properly clean and maintain the appliances. This step is critical for ensuring treatment progresses smoothly.
  • Regular Check-Ins: Follow-up visits will be scheduled every 6-10 weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments.

It’s a team effort. The orthodontist provides the expertise, but following their instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene at home is just as important.

What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Book Your First Appointment Today

You’ve made the decision to explore orthodontic treatment, and Hansen Miller Orthodontics is here to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether it’s braces, aligners, or another option, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through every step. Schedule your consultation today at one of our locations in Centennial Hills, Spring Valley, Green Valley, Sunrise, Paradise, or South Summerlin. Get started with Dr. Hansen, Dr. Miller, Dr. Benaloul, Dr. Wyatt, Dr. Jolley, or Dr. James.