What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Visit

The First Visit Is About Clarity, Not Commitment

Whether you’re a parent bringing your child, a teen exploring options, or an adult considering a better smile, your first orthodontic visit is an information session – not a treatment day.

This consultation helps us assess your teeth and bite, answer your questions, and plan ahead. There’s no pressure and no decisions needed on the spot.

For children aged 7 to 10, early checks are especially valuable. The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends this age range to detect any issues early – even if treatment won’t begin for years. You can read more on their first visit overview.

Learn more about Early Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

1. Booking and Paperwork

You don’t need a referral to book. Appointments are open to all ages.

What to bring:

• Any referral from your dentist
• Medical and dental history
• Private health insurance details
• A short list of your goals or concerns

Before you arrive:

• Aim to be 10 minutes early
• Eat and brush beforehand if possible, especially for younger children

2. Check-In and Initial Process

At reception, we’ll greet you and help with any final paperwork. If you haven’t completed your forms online, we’ll do that here.

An orthodontic assistant may take initial records like photos or health readings. If needed, a treatment coordinator joins you to walk through the process and support you throughout.

3. Clinical Examination

Dr Ronny Marks will perform a detailed visual check of:

• Tooth alignment and spacing
• How your upper and lower teeth meet (bite)
• Jaw alignment and symmetry
• Facial growth patterns
• Gum health and any visible signs of decay

This helps us understand whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate, and if so, when to begin.

4. Diagnostic Records

For a complete picture, we gather digital records. These include:

• X-rays to check jaw position, unerupted teeth, and root structure
• Photographs of your face and teeth to support planning and monitoring
• Digital scans or moulds to create 3D models – more comfortable than traditional impressions

These records allow us to build a treatment plan tailored to your bite and jaw growth. For those comparing options, this stage is essential.

5. Discussion of Findings and Treatment Options

We’ll explain what we see – clearly and without jargon. You’ll know:

• Whether treatment is recommended
• What your options are
• When to start

Options might include:

• Braces, ideal for complex crowding or bite correction
• Clear aligners, discreet and effective for mild to moderate alignment issues
• Other appliances, such as expanders or retainers, often for growing children

We’ll cover the pros and limitations of each choice. You’ll also receive an outline of the likely treatment duration and outcomes.

• Explore Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment
• See options for Adult Orthodontic Treatment

6. Fees, Finance and Scheduling

Next, we provide:

• A full estimate of treatment costs
• Details on payment plans
• An overview of what your health fund might cover

You can then book your next step—whether that’s fitting appliances, preparing teeth, or scheduling a follow-up.

7. Questions and Shared Decision-Making

You’ll have time to ask about:

• Treatment comfort
• How your smile might change
• Home care routines
• Expected duration

We listen first. Your goals guide the decisions we make together.

8. Preparing for Treatment

If treatment is starting soon, we’ll give clear advice on:

• What to eat in the first few days (soft foods are best)
• How to manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief
• How to brush and floss effectively with appliances

If treatment is delayed, we’ll explain when to return and what to monitor in the meantime.

For more about preparation and ongoing care, Better Health Channel provides helpful guidance endorsed by the Victorian Government.

FAQs