Free Adult Orthodontic Consultation
What Happens at a Free Adult Orthodontic Consultation?
Although every patient’s needs are different, a free adult orthodontic consultation is a no obligation appointment that generally includes a discussion of your goals, a review of your dental history, an orthodontic examination, and an explanation of possible treatments.
1. We Discuss Your Smile and Concerns
Your consultation begins with a conversation about what you would like to improve. You may want to straighten crowded teeth, close spaces, address shifting after previous treatment, improve your bite, or feel more confident about your smile.
This is a good time to ask questions about:
Invisalign or other clear aligners
Metal or clear braces
Estimated treatment time
Appointment frequency
Treatment costs and payment options
How orthodontic care may affect your routine
You do not need to know which treatment you want before arriving. Your orthodontist will recommend an approach after evaluating your teeth, bite, oral health, and goals.
2. We Review Your Dental and Health History
Your orthodontist will ask about relevant health conditions, medications, previous braces or aligner treatment, and dental work such as crowns, bridges, implants, or missing teeth.
Mention symptoms such as jaw discomfort, difficulty chewing, tooth sensitivity, or teeth that have shifted. These details may affect treatment planning.
Adult patients sometimes need their orthodontist to coordinate care with a general dentist, periodontist, oral surgeon, or another dental specialist. If coordination is recommended, your orthodontist should explain why.
3. Your Orthodontist Examines Your Teeth and Bite
The clinical examination may evaluate:
Crowding or spacing
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
Tooth and jaw alignment
Tooth wear
Missing or impacted teeth
Gum health
How your upper and lower teeth fit together
Changes following previous orthodontic treatment
This examination helps identify which treatment options may safely and predictably address your needs. It is not a substitute for ongoing examinations and cleanings with your general dentist.
Are X-Rays or Digital Scans Included?
At Sander Orthodontic Arts, a free consultation includes facial and dental photos, we take x-rays (usually 2). I do a clinical exam, then we will review all the findings by looking at your images together and discuss treatment options that I recommend. Finally, my treatment coordinator will go over your fees, insurance coverage, what payment plan options look like, and get you scheduled to start if you're ready!
These diagnostic records can provide information that is not visible during a standard examination. For example, a digital scan creates a detailed model that may be used to study tooth alignment and plan possible movement.
Will We Discuss Invisalign and Braces for Adults?
Yes. When clinically appropriate, your orthodontist will compare the treatment options that fit your diagnosis, goals, and lifestyle.
Invisalign for Adults
A free Invisalign consultation can help determine whether clear aligners are suitable for your case. Aligners are removable and less noticeable than braces, but they require consistent wear and careful handling.
Clear aligners can treat many orthodontic concerns, but they are not appropriate for everyone. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, an orthodontist should determine whether aligners, braces, or a combination of treatments is the best option for an individual patient.
At Sander Orthodontic Arts we will explain the benefits, limitations, and responsibilities associated with aligner treatment.
Braces for Adults
Modern braces provide a reliable option for many alignment and bite concerns. Braces remain attached to the teeth and work continuously. Depending on your diagnosis, they may offer advantages for certain types of tooth movement.
Neither braces nor clear aligners are automatically better. The recommended treatment should be based on your clinical needs, not solely on appearance or convenience.
How Is Your Treatment Plan Created?
After reviewing the findings, your orthodontist will explain your personalized treatment plan. It may address:
The recommended treatment and why it was selected
Reasonable alternatives
Estimated treatment time
Care needed before orthodontic treatment
Expected appointment frequency
Patient responsibilities
Retainer recommendations after treatment
Treatment times are estimates. Actual progress depends on the complexity of the case, biological response, appointment attendance, appliance care, and following instructions such as wearing aligners or elastics as directed.
What Should You Bring?
Please bring:
Your dental insurance information
A list of relevant medications
Dental records requested by our office
Questions about treatment
Information about previous orthodontic care
Continue visiting your general dentist for routine preventive care. Healthy teeth and gums provide an important foundation for orthodontic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old for braces or Invisalign?
Age alone does not determine whether someone can receive orthodontic treatment. The health of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone is more important. The American Association of Orthodontists’ adult treatment guidance explains that adults may be candidates for braces or clear aligners, depending on their individual needs.
How long does the consultation take?
Appointment length may vary when additional diagnostic records or a more complex evaluation is needed.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. At Sander Orthodontics, the free consultation includes facial and dental photos and we take x-rays (usually 2). I do a clinical exam, then we will review all the findings by looking at your images together and discuss treatment options that I recommend. Finally, my treatment coordinator will go over your fees, insurance coverage, what payment plan options look like, and get you scheduled to start if you're ready!
Do I have to begin treatment immediately?
No. The consultation is intended to help you understand your diagnosis, options, estimated timeline, and costs. You may review that information before deciding whether to proceed.
Schedule a Free Adult Orthodontic Consultation in Wichita
If you have been searching for an orthodontist near me, schedule a free adult orthodontic consultation at Sander Orthodontic Arts. Our Wichita orthodontic team will evaluate your smile, answer your questions, and explain which treatment options may be appropriate for you.
Call 316-465-0555 or schedule an appointment to get started.
This article provides general educational information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an individual examination. Treatment recommendations, benefits, risks, timelines, and costs vary by patient.