By Dr. Kristen Sander, DDS, MS, orthodontist and founder of Sander Orthodontic Arts in Andover, KS
The short answer: your first orthodontic consultation is a conversation, not a commitment. At Sander Orthodontic Arts, it's complimentary and includes 2 X-rays and photos and a personalized treatment plan, so you leave with clarity instead of pressure.
I've been practicing orthodontics since 2016, and the first visit is still one of my favorite parts of the job. It's where I get to know the person behind the smile: what you've noticed, what you're hoping for, and what would make treatment fit your life. Orthodontics is part science and part art, and both start with listening.
Below, I'll walk you through what happens at a first visit to our Andover office, what to bring, and the questions worth asking any orthodontist.
What happens at a first orthodontic consultation?
Most first visits follow the same gentle rhythm. At our Andover office, a first appointment usually looks like this:
Paperwork before you arrive. We text you your forms ahead of time, so you can fill out your medical and dental history online from home and skip the clipboard.
A warm welcome. When you arrive, we’ll greet you and give you a quick tour of the office.
Getting to know you. We will take you to our consultation room to learn about you and talk through your concerns and goals. We’ll also take photos of your teeth and face for our records, plus two X-rays, all included in your complimentary visit.
An exam with me. Next, I’ll come in and take a careful look at your teeth, jaws and bite.
What I see and what I recommend. I’ll explain my findings in everyday language and walk you through my recommendations, such as braces or clear aligners.
Cost, coverage and next steps. If we recommend treatment, we will go over fees, insurance benefits and personalized payment plan options. If you’re ready, we’ll schedule. If you’d like time to think, that’s completely fine.
For younger children, the visit is often about timing rather than treatment. Many kids simply need us to keep an eye on things while they grow.
How long does the first visit take?
Plan on about 40-60 minutes. That gives us time for a thorough exam and an unhurried conversation, which matters more to me than keeping the visit short.
If you're bringing a child, a quiet after-school or morning slot can make the visit easier for everyone.
What should I bring to my first orthodontic appointment?
A little preparation helps the visit go smoothly. It's helpful to bring:
Your dental insurance information
Your completed online forms (we’ll text them to you before your visit).
Contact details for your general dentist
Any recent dental X-rays, if your dentist has them
Your questions, written down so nothing gets missed
If you have a flexible spending or health savings account, bring that card too. It can help when we talk about payment.
What questions should I ask the orthodontist?
A good consultation should leave you feeling informed, not rushed. These are the questions I'd want answered if I were in your seat:
What do you see, and why does it matter for long-term oral health?
Which treatment options fit my case, and why do you recommend one over another?
How long will treatment take, and how often will I need appointments?
What results can I realistically expect?
What happens after treatment to keep teeth from shifting?
What will it cost, and what payment options are available?
There are no silly questions. If something I say doesn't make sense, I'd much rather explain it twice.
Will I leave with a treatment plan and a cost?
Yes. Your complimentary consultation includes a personalized treatment plan you can take home, so you'll know what we'd suggest, the general timeline and the investment involved.
We'll also talk through insurance and payment options. If you're planning around a flexible spending or health savings account, our guide to using your FSA or HSA for braces explains how those accounts work for orthodontic care.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
No referral is needed. Many families in Andover and Wichita schedule with us directly, and others come at their dentist's suggestion. Either way, we're happy to coordinate with your general dentist so your care stays connected.
When should my child have a first orthodontic visit?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age 7. At that age, an orthodontist can spot developing bite or jaw concerns early, even though most children won't need treatment yet.
If your child is already in their teen years, it's not too late. Learn more about our approach to orthodontic care for teens.
Ready to schedule your consultation in Andover?
Whether you're a parent noticing changes in your child's smile or an adult who's wondered about straightening your teeth for years, the first step is simply a conversation, and it's complimentary. Explore our orthodontic services, or book your consultation with Sander Orthodontic Arts in Andover, serving families across Andover and Wichita.
You can also call us at 316-465-0555. We'd love to meet you.
Frequently asked questions
Is the first orthodontic consultation free at Sander Orthodontic Arts?
Yes. Your first consultation at Sander Orthodontic Arts in Andover is complimentary. It includes any X-rays we need and a personalized treatment plan, with no obligation to start treatment.
Will my child get braces at the first appointment?
Usually not. The first visit is for an exam, a conversation and a plan. Treatment begins at a later appointment, once you've had time to decide.
At what age should a child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. Most children seen at that age won't need treatment right away, but early visits help spot concerns while a child is still growing.
Are X-rays or scans taken at the first orthodontic visit?
Yes. X-rays are included in your complimentary first consultation at Sander Orthodontic Arts, so we can understand your teeth, jaws and bite before recommending a plan.
How do I book an orthodontic consultation in Andover, KS?
You can book online through the Sander Orthodontic Arts website or call 316-465-0555. Our office is at 105 S. Andover Rd., Suite G, in Andover, and we see patients from across Andover and Wichita.
