FIRST VISIT

The first time you visit O’Neill Orthodontics will be an introduction to the office and a complimentary initial exam. During this exam Dr. O’Neill will look for the following things.

• General growth patterns
• Head and neck exam
• Facial balance and symmetry
• TMJ function
• Missing or abnormal teeth
• Bite and tooth relationship
• Pathology
• Tooth alignment
• Smile

After the initial exam, Dr. O’Neill will give you a detailed evaluation of findings and options. If it is determined that treatment would benefit the patient, the next step is to take records; this can often be done the same day! Records are needed to complete the diagnoses and assess everything that can be seen just by looking. An orthodontist evaluates not only the teeth but the entire head and neck for problems.

These are the records that will be needed:

• Impressions of your teeth to create high tech digital models for accurate analysis
• Pictures of you face and teeth to evaluate symmetry and problems and to have a base line if treatment is given
• Head Radiographs- This includes a radiograph of your entire head and one of your entire mouth. Unlike dental x-rays of your individual teeth, these are only two pictures and because of advanced technology use a fraction of the radiation.

After the doctor evaluates the records, a final treatment plan and options can be given. After everything is explained and if you are ready to get the smile you deserve, treatment can start anytime.