Your First Visit

Upon arrival, our patient coordinator will welcome you to our office. She will take your patient history form if you have completed it in advance, or ask you to fill out the paperwork before proceeding. Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Kenneth Banasiak, takes your health, safety, and comfort seriously, and this information helps him to provide the highest level of care possible. You will then be invited into our treatment room. From there, one of our assistants will take preliminary photos and a panoramic radiograph then the doctor will come in and perform the detailed exam. During this time you are encouraged to discuss your goals and ask any questions you may have. This examination is complimentary. We offer this service so you can familiarize yourself with our office, staff, and treatment options. At your first visit, we will suggest that treatment is:

• Recommended in the future
• Recommended immediately
• Not recommended

If a procedure is recommended and you would like to continue, we will take X-rays and/or impressions and initiate the dental record process.

Starting Treatment

In the event treatment is recommended, we can begin right away. The first step will be compiling diagnostic records, which tell us how your oral structures (teeth, gums, and jaw) fit and function within your mouth. We will take two kinds of X-rays – panorex and cephalometric – and also create an impression of your teeth. These tests can be completed at our well-equipped office and typically take around 20 to 30 minutes to perform. To ensure the highest levels of accuracy and efficacy, we utilize the most advanced technology and techniques available, including digital imaging.

You will return for a second appointment, the consultation, in about two weeks. This is approximately the amount of time necessary to receive the records from the laboratory and give our orthodontist time to review the information. They will use these materials to develop a customized treatment plan suited to your unique anatomical needs and expressed goals. During your consultation, Dr. Banasiak and our patient coordinator will review the recommended procedures and discuss financing options. We will also assist you in setting up each follow-up appointment at a date and time convenient for you.

Early Evaluation Begins at 7

Orthodontic professionals used to advise parents to hold off on treatment until their child had reached adolescence. However, modern guidelines established by the American Association of Orthodontics recommend children undergo an initial examination at age seven, potentially earlier if a concern arises before then. Many orthodontic issues can be addressed effectively and more easily by working with the natural growth process. An evaluation will not necessarily mean immediate treatment will be suggested. Early observation can help our orthodontist supervise the development of your child’s teeth, gums, and oral structures. As a result, the likelihood that your child could need to have a permanent tooth or teeth removed may be reduced. Additionally, we often find that our younger patients are more cooperative and engaged in the process, which can shorten treatment times. There are many benefits to beginning orthodontic care before the face and jaw have finished growing, and we will be happy to discuss these with you.

Learn more about child orthodontics and two-phase treatment.

Beautiful Teeth at Any Age

Virtually everyone can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with the right care. Biology dictates that the movement of the teeth, gums, and oral structures is the same process in children as adults. The advantages of having straight, properly aligned teeth are many and often include enhanced confidence and improved bite function. Patients also typically find it easier to clean their teeth after orthodontic treatment. At our office, the condition of your teeth gums, bones, and supporting structures determine the techniques we recommend, not our profit margin. Your health and well-being are our highest priorities. If you are interested in orthodontics to correct bite problems that may be contributing to other dental issues, to enhance the appearance of your teeth, or both, we encourage you to reach out. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to help you attain the smile you’ve always wanted.

For more information about your first visit and the benefits of orthodontics, please contact our office today. We can answer any questions and schedule your complimentary consultation.