What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Consultation

Visiting an orthodontist for the first time can feel daunting — especially if you're unsure what to expect. At Braces Adelaide, we've designed our initial consultation to be thorough, informative, and completely pressure-free. Here's a detailed look at what happens during your $99 appointment with Dr Jensen.

Before Your Appointment

Do I Need a Referral?

No. You can book directly with us without a referral from your dentist. While some patients are referred by their general dentist, it's not a requirement. You're welcome to self-refer at any time.

How to Prepare

There's very little you need to do before your appointment:

• Brush and floss before arriving (so we can get the clearest view of your teeth)
• Bring your health fund card if you have private health insurance
• Write down any questions you'd like to ask
• Arrive 5–10 minutes early to complete a brief medical history form
• Bring a parent or guardian if the patient is under 18

If you have any previous dental X-rays or records from another provider, feel free to bring those along — though it's not essential as we take our own imaging.

What Happens During the Consultation

Step 1: Digital X-Rays and Imaging

Your appointment begins with comprehensive diagnostic imaging, all included in the $99 fee:

• Panoramic X-ray (OPG) — shows all teeth, roots, jaw joints, and developing teeth in children
• Lateral cephalometric X-ray — a side profile view used to analyse jaw relationships and plan treatment
• Digital photographs — clinical photos of your teeth and smile from multiple angles

This imaging gives Dr Jensen a complete picture of your dental and skeletal anatomy, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Step 2: Clinical Examination

Dr Jensen will conduct a thorough examination of your:

• Teeth — alignment, crowding, spacing, rotations
• Bite — how your upper and lower teeth meet (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
• Jaw — joint function, symmetry, and growth patterns (especially important in children)
• Soft tissues — gums, lips, and facial profile
• Oral hygiene — current state of dental health

Step 3: Diagnosis and Discussion

After the examination, Dr Jensen will explain:

• What's happening — a clear explanation of any orthodontic issues identified
• Why it matters — how these issues may affect your dental health, function, or appearance if left untreated
• Treatment options — which approaches could address your concerns, with pros and cons of each
• Recommended treatment — Dr Jensen's professional recommendation based on your specific case
• Timeline — estimated treatment duration
• Cost — transparent, fixed-fee pricing with no hidden charges

You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, and take time to consider your options. There is absolutely no pressure to commit on the day.

Step 4: Treatment Simulation (Invisalign Patients)

If you're considering Invisalign, your consultation may also include a digital scan using an iTero intraoral scanner. This creates a precise 3D model of your teeth and can generate a simulation showing how your smile could look after treatment — before you even begin.

What Does the $99 Include?

Our consultation fee covers everything you need for a complete assessment:

At most Adelaide orthodontic practices, this level of diagnostic workup would cost $300–$500. Our $99 consultation makes specialist orthodontic advice accessible to everyone.

Note for adults considering Invisalign: We offer a FREE Invisalign Discovery Consult that includes everything above plus a digital scan and smile simulation at no cost.

Common Questions Patients Ask

Here are some questions we encourage you to ask during your consultation:

About Treatment

• What type of treatment do you recommend for my case?
• How long will treatment take?
• How often will I need appointments?
• What happens if I don't get treatment?

About Cost and Payment

• What is the total fixed fee for my treatment?
• What payment plan options are available?
• Can I claim on my private health insurance?
• Are retainers included in the price?

About the Orthodontist

• How many similar cases have you treated?
• What qualifications do you hold?
• What technology do you use?

After Your Consultation

Following your appointment, you'll leave with:

• A clear understanding of your orthodontic needs
• A written treatment plan and quote
• Information about payment plan options
• No pressure and no obligation to proceed

Many patients choose to start treatment on the same day, but there's no expectation to do so. Take the time you need to discuss with family, check your health fund coverage, or simply think it over.

Who Should See an Orthodontist?

Adults

It's never too late for orthodontic treatment. We treat patients of all ages, and adult orthodontics is one of our fastest-growing areas. Whether you've always wanted straighter teeth or have noticed crowding developing over time, a consultation can clarify your options.

Teenagers

The teenage years are the most common time for orthodontic treatment, as all permanent teeth have typically erupted and the jaw is still growing. We make treatment affordable for families with flexible payment plans.

Children (Age 7+)

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic assessment by age 7. At this age, Dr Jensen can identify developing issues and determine whether early intervention (Phase I treatment) could prevent more complex treatment later.

Book Your Consultation

Ready to take the first step? Book your $99 consultation online or call our Adelaide clinic. The appointment takes approximately 45–60 minutes, and you'll leave with all the information you need to make a confident decision about your smile.

Remember — no referral needed, no pressure to proceed, and everything is included in the $99 fee.