What to Expect at Your Orthodontic Appointment

Posted on May 13, 2019

Cardinal Orthodontics has two convenient office locations in the St. Louis metro area. Our Orthodontist and team members travel between each of these offices, to ensure our patients see the same familiar faces at each orthodontic appointment.

Your First Orthodontic Appointment

When you walk into either of our offices, you will be warmly greeted by our receptionist. She will help you with any paperwork that needs to be completed before starting your appointment.

Next, our treatment coordinator will show you around the office before taking x-rays, photos, and a 3D scan of your teeth. These records are necessary for our doctor to give you a thorough and accurate treatment plan.  He will meet with you to discuss what your goals are for your smile, and give you different treatment options to consider. At Cardinal Orthodontics we offer metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign.

Once you have decided what treatment option best suites you, our treatment coordinator will go over pricing, and payment options.  We strive to make braces and Invisalign affordable for everyone, and promise to work with you to develop a payment plan that fits within your budget. If Dr. James believes you are ready to get started with treatment, he will even offer you the opportunity to get started that same day!

Getting my Braces On | Starting Invisalign

When it’s time for you to get started with braces or Invisalign, our operatory team members will explain the process to you and what each appointment will all entail. These ladies are our patient managers who will put on your braces, place Invisalign attachments, and do adjustments throughout your treatment. Dr. James will also be present at all of your appointments, to evaluate your smile and answer any questions you may have.

Getting my Braces Off

Our average treatment time at Cardinal Orthodontics is 16 months! Once you complete your treatment, our goal is to help you maintain that new, straight smile forever. We believe your smile is a lifelong investment, that is why we promise to provide you with FREE RETAINERS FOR LIFE! At your removal appointment, you will receive a set of 3D clear retainers to wear every night when you go to bed. If you ever loose, break, or need a back-up retainer, please be sure to give us a call asap! If you go too long without a retainer, your teeth will begin to shift.

Our goal at Cardinal Orthodontics is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted through braces or Invisalign, in a timely manner. If you’re interested in a free consultation, or would like to learn more about the benefits of straightening your teeth, please give our office a call at 314-698-0522. We also offer video consultations that can be done from the comfort of your own home! Click here to schedule a video appointment today.