Orthodontic Evaluation

A Key Step For Optimum Dental Health

Embarking on a journey towards a healthier and more confident smile often begins with a crucial first step: an orthodontic evaluation. This initial consultation with Snow Family Dental in Frankfort, IL, sets the stage for personalized care tailored to your unique dental needs. Trust our experts to provide an effective treatment plan to enhance your oral health!

The Orthodontic Evaluation Process

An orthodontic evaluation involves a series of straightforward steps to gather all the necessary information about your needs.

Dental History Review

Dr. Snow and Dr. Hudson will inquire about your past dental experiences, any previous orthodontic treatment, and if you’ve faced any specific dental problems. Sharing information about any habits like thumb sucking or teeth grinding is also beneficial as these can impact tooth alignment and bite. This comprehensive understanding of your dental background allows us to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Examination

Our dentists will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and jaw to assess the alignment of your teeth. We will check for crooked teeth, crowding, or spacing problems. We will also examine your bite, looking for dysfunctions such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. 

Dr. Snow and Dr. Hudson will also evaluate the overall health of your gums and supporting tissues. This is crucial because healthy gums are essential for successful orthodontic treatment.

X-Rays and Digital Imaging

These images provide valuable information about your teeth, roots, and jawbone position, which may not be visible during a physical exam. This is particularly important when determining the best course of treatment.

Digital imaging, like panoramic X-rays and 3D scans, is commonly used to create a detailed map of your mouth. These images assist us in diagnosing any hidden issues, planning precise tooth movements, and customizing treatment with orthodontic appliances like braces or clear aligners.

Treatment Options

Once you have been evaluated, we’ll discuss potential treatment options with you. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each option and help you choose the best one based on your specific needs and desired outcome.

The treatment plan may involve various orthodontic appliances, but we’ll clearly explain how each one works to achieve the desired results:

  • Braces: These are the most common type of orthodontic appliance and are highly effective in correcting a wide range of dental issues.
  • Clear Aligners: Removable, virtually invisible aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
  • Retainers: These are custom-made appliances worn after active treatment to maintain the new position of your teeth.

You’ll also have a realistic timeline for treatment and address any questions or concerns you might have.

What is an Orthodontic Evaluation?

An orthodontic evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by Dr. Snow or Dr. Hudson to evaluate the health and alignment of your teeth and jaws. During this initial visit, the team will take the time to understand your concerns and treatment goals. 

Our team at Snow Family Dental will thoroughly examine your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to determine if orthodontic intervention is necessary. The information gathered during this evaluation forms the basis for creating a personalized treatment plan to achieve your dream smile.

Importance of an Orthodontic Evaluation

Scheduling an orthodontic evaluation is an investment in your long-term dental health. It allows our dentists to detect potential problems when they are easier to address. Early orthodontic treatment is particularly important for children as it can guide proper jaw growth and prevent more serious issues from developing later in life.

Beyond the obvious benefit of straighter teeth, seeking orthodontic care can significantly impact oral health and well-being. It can improve your bite, making chewing and speaking easier. Plus, achieving that new smile can boost your self-esteem and make you more confident in social situations.

Choosing the Right Team for Your Orthodontic Services

Choosing the right team for yourself or your child is a crucial decision. At Snow Family Dental, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and attention to meet your unique orthodontic needs. Our experienced team will work closely with you to explore various treatment options and answer any questions you may have. If specialized orthodontic treatment is needed, we will refer you to our expert team of connected orthodontists to ensure you receive the highest level of care. We’re ready to help you straighten your smile. Contact us today at (708) 799-5162 to schedule an orthodontic evaluation!