Starting orthodontic care is a big step toward a healthier and more confident smile. Whether it’s for your child or yourself, your first visit can feel both exciting and a little uncertain. At Simple Orthodontics, conveniently located near San Francisco in Larkspur, we’re here to make your orthodontic journey smooth, informative, and stress-free.
If you’ve been wondering what happens during your first orthodontic appointment, this guide will walk you through every step — so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
Why the First Visit Matters
The first orthodontic appointment is about more than just checking your teeth. It sets the foundation for your entire treatment journey. During this visit, Dr. Sean Carlson and our team will:
- Get to know you and your goals
- Collect essential records and diagnostic information
- Evaluate your bite, jaw, and airway health
- Recommend a personalized treatment plan
Our goal is to help you feel empowered and educated so that together, we can design the best path to your ideal smile.
Step 1: Warm Welcome and Office Tour
When you arrive at Simple Orthodontics, you’ll be greeted by our friendly front desk team. If it’s your first time visiting, you’ll complete some initial paperwork (or complete it online beforehand for added convenience).
Next, we’ll give you a brief tour of our modern and tech-forward office, located in the heart of Larkspur and easily accessible to patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We want you to feel comfortable and familiar with our space from day one.
Step 2: Digital Records and Imaging
Your first orthodontic visit includes gathering important diagnostic information that will help Dr. Carlson plan your treatment. This process includes:
- Digital photographs of your face, smile, and teeth
- 3D digital scans or X-rays to assess tooth position, jaw alignment, and airway
- A detailed clinical examination
At Simple Orthodontics, we use advanced imaging and digital workflows to ensure a more precise and comfortable experience. No messy impressions required!
Step 3: Comprehensive Orthodontic Exam
Once records are complete, Dr. Carlson will personally perform a thorough exam. He will assess:
- The alignment of your teeth
- Your bite and how your jaws fit together
- Growth patterns (especially important for children and teens)
- Airway health and oral posture
- Any signs of crowding, spacing, or impacted teeth
Dr. Carlson’s approach is not only focused on aesthetics — it’s about ensuring optimal oral health and proper function for years to come.
Step 4: Review and Discussion of Treatment Options
Once Dr. Carlson completes your exam, he will sit down with you to carefully review your images and explain his findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. He will discuss any orthodontic issues that may be present, such as crowding, bite misalignment, or jaw growth concerns. From there, he will walk you through how treatment can address these concerns to improve both the aesthetics of your smile and your overall oral health.
Dr. Carlson will take the time to outline your personalized options, which may include custom braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or early interceptive treatment, particularly for younger patients whose jaws are still developing. He will also answer any questions you may have about treatment duration, comfort, lifestyle adjustments, or expected results.
This is your opportunity to openly discuss your goals and preferences. Dr. Carlson and our team will ensure you leave with a clear understanding of the best path forward and what your orthodontic journey will look like.
Step 5: Financial Options and Next Steps
Before you leave, our treatment coordinator will discuss the financial aspects of care. We believe orthodontics should be accessible and stress-free, so we offer:
- Complimentary initial consultations
- Assistance with insurance benefits
- Flexible payment plans tailored to your budget
If you’re ready to move forward, we’ll help schedule your next appointment and begin planning your treatment start date.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
To make your visit go as smoothly as possible, please bring:
- Insurance information, if applicable
- Dental or medical history records, if available
- A list of questions or concerns you’d like to discuss
Parents or guardians of younger patients should also attend so they can be part of the treatment planning process.
Making the Most of Your First Visit
At Simple Orthodontics, we believe your first appointment should be relaxed and enjoyable. Our expert team, modern technology, and patient-centered approach ensure you’ll leave feeling confident and excited about the journey ahead.
From your initial consultation through the completion of treatment, we’re committed to providing the highest quality care for Bay Area families — blending advanced orthodontics with a warm and welcoming experience.
Contact Simple Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted.
