The purpose of the first examination
The purpose of the first orthodontic examination is to assess the current state of your teeth and jaws, decide whether orthodontic treatment is needed and, if so, discuss suitable treatment options. Not every examination leads to treatment; in some cases only monitoring is recommended.
What happens at the examination?
Consultation
You will be asked about your concerns, expectations, general health, any medications you take and past dental treatment. If you have had orthodontic treatment before, this information matters too.
Intraoral and facial examination
- Tooth alignment, crowding and gaps
- How the upper and lower teeth meet (deep bite, open bite, crossbite)
- Gums and tartar, decay and fillings
- The jaw joint, mouth opening and jaw movements
- Facial profile, smile and lip relationship
- In children, the change from baby to permanent teeth and habits such as thumb sucking and mouth breathing
Which records are taken?
| Record | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Panoramic X-ray | All teeth, roots, impacted and missing teeth, the jawbones |
| Cephalometric (side skull) X-ray | Position of the jaws relative to each other and the skull base; assessment of skeletal problems |
| Intraoral 3D scan | A three-dimensional digital model of the teeth; for planning and aligner production |
| Facial and intraoral photos | A record of the starting situation and for planning |
Which records are needed depends on your situation. If you have recent X-rays taken elsewhere, bringing them can avoid unnecessary repeats.
What does “first examination only” mean?
This phrase, seen in some booking systems or fee information, means that the stated scope covers only the first assessment appointment and does not include later procedures such as X-rays, records, treatment and check-ups. Asking what the examination includes when you book helps you avoid surprises.
What will you learn at the end of the examination?
- Whether there is an orthodontic problem and whether it is dental or skeletal
- Suitable treatment options (clear aligners, braces, appliances or a combination)
- Other dental treatment needed before orthodontics can start
- Estimated treatment duration and check-up frequency
- Factors that affect the fee, and written information after planning
Preparing for the examination
- Any dental X-rays taken in the past year
- A list of medications you take and important health information
- Information on any previous orthodontic treatment and your retainer, if you have one
- A list of the questions you want to ask
Questions you may want to ask
- What could happen in future if this problem is not treated?
- Are clear aligners suitable for me, and if not, why not?
- Will I need extractions, enamel reduction or attachments?
- How will retention work after treatment, and for how long?
For points to consider when choosing an orthodontist, see this guide.