At North Coast Orthodontics, we believe that every smile is a masterpiece deserving of personalized care and precision. Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign, your journey toward a beautiful and confident smile begins with your first orthodontic appointment. Our mission is to make this process as smooth and informative as possible. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your initial consultation, ensuring you feel prepared and comfortable every step of the way.
Scheduling Your Appointment
The first step in your orthodontic journey is scheduling your appointment. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations to accommodate your busy schedule, ensuring flexibility and convenience.
Arriving at the Office
When you arrive at our Capitola office, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team. Our main office is centrally located in Santa Cruz County on 41st Ave., next to Whole Foods and across from the Capitola Mall. For future appointments, we also have a new location coming soon in Scotts Valley.
Your First Visit: What to Expect
Patient Forms
Before your consultation begins, you’ll need to fill out some patient forms. These forms provide us with essential information about your medical history and dental health, helping us tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs.
Initial Examination
During your initial examination, one of our expert orthodontists, Dr. Brian Schabel or Dr. Vivian Chan, will assess your oral health. This comprehensive examination includes:
- Visual Examination — A thorough inspection of your teeth, gums, and jaw to identify any visible issues.
- X-Rays — Panoramic X-rays may be taken to provide detailed images of your teeth, roots, and jawbone. This helps us understand the underlying structure and plan your treatment accurately.
- Photographs — We may take photographs of your face and teeth to document your current condition and track your progress over time.
- Impressions — Digital impressions of your teeth might be taken to create precise models, which are essential for designing your custom treatment plan.
Discussing Your Needs & Goals
Our orthodontists will sit down with you to discuss your concerns, preferences, and goals for treatment. Whether you’re interested in traditional braces or Invisalign, we’ll listen carefully to ensure we understand your expectations.
Treatment Planning
Based on the examination results and your input, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan will outline:
- Treatment Options — We’ll explain the different treatment options available, such as traditional braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic appliances.
- Duration of Treatment — An estimated timeline for your treatment, including the expected duration and frequency of follow-up visits.
- Cost and Financing — A detailed breakdown of the costs involved and information about our flexible financing options. We strive to make orthodontic care affordable and accessible for everyone.
Q&A Session
We understand that you may have questions or concerns about the proposed treatment. Our team will take the time to address all your questions, providing clear and concise answers to help you make an informed decision.
Next Steps
Once you’ve decided on your treatment plan, we’ll guide you through the next steps. This may include scheduling your first treatment appointment, providing instructions for dental care, and discussing any preparations needed before starting your orthodontic journey.
Why Choose North Coast Orthodontics?
As the only Diamond+, Top 1% Invisalign provider in the Monterey Bay, North Coast Orthodontics is committed to delivering the highest quality care with a personal touch. Our state-of-the-art technology and experienced team ensure that you receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. We take pride in our community involvement and dedication to creating beautiful, confident smiles for patients of all ages.
In conclusion, your first orthodontic appointment at North Coast Orthodontics is the beginning of an exciting journey towards a healthier, more attractive smile. By understanding what to expect, you can approach your consultation with confidence and ease. If you’re ready to take the first step, contact us today to request your free consultation.
