Thinking about braces but not sure what to expect during your first visit to Schatz Orthodontics? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a teen, young adult, or a parent planning for your child, many people feel nervous before their first appointment. But the truth is, your first orthodontic visit is nothing to fret about—it’s all about understanding what’s best for your smile and planning to achieve it. 

If you’re searching for “braces near me” and wondering what will happen during your consultation, this guide is for you. Let’s break down the five things you can expect when you enter your first orthodontic appointment (spoiler alert: it’s pretty straightforward and even a little exciting). 

1. Your Initial Consultation 

A first orthodontic appointment is all about getting to know you and your teeth. Our orthodontist will start by thoroughly examining your mouth, teeth, and jaw. This includes looking for issues like misalignment, crowding, overbites, or underbites. 

We may also take X-rays to examine your teeth and jaw structure in more detail. These images give us deeper insight into underlying issues that might not be visible during your exam. 

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Relax! There’s no commitment during these initial stages. Think of it as an information-gathering session, during which our orthodontist will partner with you in planning a healthier, straighter smile. 

2. Discussing Your Treatment Options 

Not all braces are created equal, and during your first visit, we’ll walk you through the different types of braces available. These may include: 

• Traditional Metal Braces: This classic approach is still incredibly effective and reliable. It’s great for significant corrections. 
• Clear (Ceramic) Braces: These are subtle and less noticeable, perfect for those who want something more discreet. 
• Self-Ligated Braces: These use a specialized clip instead of elastic bands, resulting in less friction and potentially shorter treatment time.  
• Invisalign®: Almost invisible and removable, these clear aligners are ideal for those who prefer flexibility and have minor to moderate alignment issues.

Each option has pros and cons. Our orthodontist will help you determine which best suits your needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. 

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When starting this journey, don’t be afraid to ask many questions. The more you know about each option, the easier it should be to decide. 

3. Creating Your Treatment Plan 

Once you decide on the type of braces, the team at Schatz Orthodontics will outline a personalized treatment plan that will include:

• An Estimated Timeline for Your Treatment
• What Your Appointments Will Involve
• Braces Cleaning Tips as You Progress

According to the Cleveland Clinictakes, the average treatment for braces according to the Cleveland Clinic is 24 months. Still, some people with minor misalignments can achieve a straighter smile in under a year. Our San Antonio orthodontist will provide a specific estimate based on your smile. 

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Our treatment plans are customized, so don’t hesitate to share your goals. If you want your teeth perfectly aligned before prom, graduation, or another milestone event, we will do our best to make it happen. 

4. Discussing Costs and Payment Plans 

A common question that comes up during the first appointment is, “What is this going to cost?” Our office will walk you through the financial side of things, including the total cost of treatment, what insurance might cover, and any available payment plans. 

Schatz Orthodontics even offers in-house financing options to make braces more affordable, as well as free consultations and discounts for teachers, military personnel, and first responders. 

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Bring your insurance information with you to simplify the financial discussion. It’ll help our team determine what portion of your treatment may be covered. 

5. Getting Started 

After you’ve settled on your treatment plan and financial arrangements, it’s time to get started! Depending on the type of braces you’ve chosen, our San Antonio orthodontist might take impressions of your teeth or a digital scan to ensure everything fits perfectly. 

If you opt for traditional braces, your next appointment will likely involve putting them on. For aligners, you’ll receive your custom trays in a couple of weeks. The team will provide all the instructions on how to care for your braces (or aligners) and keep your treatment on track. 

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Enjoy the excitement of taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile! 

Book Your Free Braces Consultation

Your search for “braces near me” is over. Begin your braces journey at Schatz Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX, today. We can use your first appointment to calm your nerves, answer your questions, and set you up for a successfully straightened smile. Get started now!