So you’ve scheduled your first orthodontist appointment with us and you’re preparing for a stunning new smile? That’s something to be REALLY excited about!
Before you show up for your complimentary consultation and exam, you may have a few questions about the process: “What happens at the first orthodontist appointment? What can I expect?”
We’re here to break it all down – no surprises. Here are 5 things you can expect at your orthodontist consultation with Dr. Lu and the First Impression family.
1. We’ll be so happy to see you!
We’ll be waiting for you when you arrive, and we can’t wait to see you at our orthodontic office in Alexandria (the DMV area!) Dr. Lu and our team are known for creating incredible smiles and bringing good vibes and good energy to every visit.
Before you visit us for your consultation, you can fill out your new patient forms online for a quick and easy check-in process.
When you arrive for your first visit, you can expect a personalized welcome sign, then exciting events and celebrations throughout your treatment. Think theme days, office games and prizes, iPads and a coffee bar in the waiting room, and of course – a debanding celebration when your new smile is revealed.
2. Dr. Lu will examine your smile.
You’ll meet the awesome Dr. Lu, who will become your personal orthodontist. He’ll dedicate his undivided attention to you every time you see him.
Once we give you a tour of the office, Dr. Lu will perform a visual exam of your smile. We’ll take some digital x-rays, scans and photos to get the full picture of your teeth, gums and jaw bones.
We use the advanced iTero™ Element digital scanner to take a quick digital scan of your mouth — no messy putty required. We’ll get to show you a simulation of your end results, before you even begin treatment.
Dr. Lu will use all of this information, from your visual exam, digital x-rays and scan, to create your personalized treatment plan.
3. Choose your ideal treatment.
At your first orthodontic appointment, we’ll help you explore your treatment options so you can choose the one that suits your lifestyle.
We take the time to understand your needs and goals, then guide you toward a custom treatment designed to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Our treatments are customized to match your lifestyle and priorities — whether you’re focused on faster results, convenience, or keeping your smile looking great throughout the process. Whatever matters most to you, we’ll match you with the ideal treatment option and create a plan that fits seamlessly into your daily life.
You’ll be able to choose between clear aligners or high efficiency self-ligating (tie-less) braces in metal or clear.
4. We’ll create an affordable payment plan that fits your budget.
We make orthodontics affordable, because you deserve personalized care at a price that makes you feel comfortable. Like your treatment plan, your payment plan will be 100% customized to you and your needs.
We offer flexible in-house financing for orthodontics with 0% interest, and we’ll match you with any discount opportunities (pay-in-full discount, family member discount or military discount.)
If you have dental insurance, your plan could cover a significant portion of your treatment cost! We accept all PPO insurances, including United Concordia, and we’ll calculate your benefit and do all of the paperwork for you. We’re here to help you receive the maximum benefit from your plan!
We know it sounds like a lot, but you’ll hear all of this again at your orthodontics appointment.
5. Step into your best self!
Next stop is a stunning new smile! We see orthodontics as a key to self-improvement. A confident smile can empower you to embrace your full potential, and propel you toward your best self — and we’re honored to be a part of that journey for you.
Once your treatment and financing plans are squared away, we’ll take another scan for your custom treatment to be designed and printed. Your first visit may take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, and we’ll talk about what to expect throughout treatment and when to come see us next.
How long does it take to get braces off?
Whether you choose braces or clear aligners, your treatment length depends on your orthodontic issue, the severity of your condition, and your diligence in wearing your clear aligners or other removable appliances.
The average full treatment time is about 12 months, but yours can range anywhere from 6 months to 36 months based on whether your case is minor or more complex. You’ll know your estimated treatment length as soon as we create your personalized treatment plan.
With clear aligners, it’s important that you wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours a day to stay on track with your treatment time – otherwise, it’ll take a longer treatment time to reach the end result.
Check out our FAQs about braces and clear aligners for answers to more common questions!
Let’s get your first visit on the books!
Now, it’s time to take the first step! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about what to expect at your first orthodontic appointment.
Whether you’re looking for a child orthodontist near you, or a top Alexandria orthodontist for your teen or for yourself, we’d love to meet you. All you have to do is schedule your complimentary consultation, walk in the door, and we’ll take it from there.
Once you request your free exam, we’ll reach out to you to get your appointment scheduled on a date and time that work for you, and begin your journey!
