Start your smile journey with confidence at Premier Orthodontics & Dental Specialists in Elmhurst and Downers Grove. We’re excited to welcome you to your first orthodontic visit and make your experience comfortable, informative, and affordable.
Before Your Visit
If you have dental insurance, take a front and back photo of your card and text it to us at (630) 279-5345. We’ll use it to run a complimentary insurance benefits check, ideally before your consultation, so we can speak to your coverage right away when you arrive.
If you have any referrals, x-rays, or records from your dentist or another specialist, especially if you’re coming in for a second opinion, bring those along too, ideally ones taken within the past 6 to 12 months. And if your child is under 18, a parent or guardian needs to accompany them to this appointment.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
When you arrive, our front desk team will help you check in and make you feel right at home. During your visit, one of our doctors will review your medical and dental history, perform a thorough orthodontic exam, and review your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment.
We’ll talk about:
- Whether orthodontic treatment is needed
- When it’s best to begin
- Which treatment options may work best
- How long it might take
If treatment is recommended and you’re ready to get started, we can often take diagnostic records the same day, so you’re not stuck scheduling an extra appointment just for that.
Diagnostic Records and Treatment Planning
To plan your treatment precisely, we:
- Study models or digital scans of your teeth
- Panoramic and cephalometric x-rays
- Photographs of your smile and bite
These records help our doctors design a customized treatment plan that ensures your bite and smile look and function their best.
Office Hours
Our goal is to see you on time for every appointment. We schedule enough time to complete all necessary procedures, provide treatment information, and answer any questions you may have.
To help us stay on schedule, please arrive on time for your visit. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated by our team and by other patients who are scheduled after you.
FAQ
When Can I Schedule My First Orthodontic Consultation?
You can schedule your free consultation anytime, and no referral from a dentist is required. We offer flexible appointment times throughout the week to accommodate busy families and working professionals. Simply call our office or request an appointment online, and our team will help you find a time that works best for you.
How Long Will the First Visit Take?
Most first visits take about 45 minutes to an hour. This allows our orthodontist time to review your medical and dental history, perform a detailed exam, take diagnostic photos or x-rays if needed, and discuss treatment options. If you decide to begin treatment, we can often take your diagnostic records the same day to save you an extra trip.
What Should I Bring to My First Appointment?
Please bring your completed new patient forms, insurance information, and any recent dental x-rays or orthodontic records you may have. If you plan to use orthodontic insurance, HSA, or FSA benefits, have that information ready so our team can review your coverage and explain how it applies to your treatment.
Do I Need to Bring Records or a Referral From Another Dentist?
If you have any referrals, x-rays, or records from your dentist or another specialist, especially if you’re coming in for a second opinion, bring those along, ideally ones taken within the past 6 to 12 months. That said, a referral isn’t required to schedule your visit with us.
Does My Child Need to Be Accompanied by a Parent or Guardian?
Yes. If your child is under 18, a parent or guardian needs to accompany them to their consultation appointment.