At Elm Tree Orthodontics, we value our patients’ trust in our skills and expertise in the smile journey. When beginning care with us, Dr. Desai will create a unique plan of care that meets your goals and addresses your concerns. But how does he and our team do it? We are here to share the process of crafting your treatment plan, how we go over it with patients, and the importance of your free consultation!
Evaluation of Your Orthodontic Needs
Thorough Physical Examination
When you first come in, Dr. Desai will begin by looking at your teeth and what signs of issues our team can immediately find. This will help us better understand what further examinations will help diagnose and create your treatment plan. We may also take digital photographs of your teeth during this time. At the end of your time with us, you will see the amazing before and after photos of how much your teeth have shifted.
Digital Impression
Elm Tree Orthodontics supports our patients with the latest orthodontic advances, including the iTero element scanner. We use this device to scan each of your teeth and create an extremely accurate 3D model of your gums and where your teeth are established.
The scanner’s technology allows us to create precise care plans unique to each patient’s case, allowing for more effective and efficient treatment times. The iTero element scanner also helps us create comfortably fitted appliances as we can learn each tooth’s exact position and size.
Taking X-Rays
The next step is capturing the necessary x-rays required to learn more about the development of your teeth as well as their current and future positioning. We use cephalometric and panoramic x-rays to see another view of your teeth, jaws, and soft facial tissue. They use minimal radiation to take and help us determine the best placement for your appliance. If you have a recent one taken by your dentist within the past six months, please bring it to your appointment.
Reviewing Dental and Medical History
The final step in determining your treatment plan is reviewing your dental and medical history in order to provide us with a complete picture of how your body has reacted to past operations or procedures, allergies, and more. Each of these can affect the treatment Dr. Desai recommends you move forward with.
Your Treatment Options
InBrace Hidden Braces
Using the latest orthodontic technology, InBrace hidden braces may be the perfect appliance choice. If you want to work on your teeth but are not interested in a traditional braces appearance, this option can accomplish your smile goals efficiently.
This discreet appliance uses a SmartWire and lays behind your teeth, providing a comfortable feel and less friction against the inside of your mouth. We use your x-rays and digital impressions to decide the best placement for each bracket. You can expect fewer appointments and no need to worry about monthly tightenings.
Clear Aligners
Elm Tree Orthodontics provides clear aligners for our teen and adult patients looking to improve their smile without anyone noticing, specifically offering Invisalign and Spark. These state-of-the-art appliances use a series of plastic trays that get switched out every two weeks as your teeth slowly shift into their new position.
It is recommended to wear them at least 22 hours daily to keep your treatment on track. Thanks to the iTero element scanner, we are able to determine how your teeth will look at the end of treatment and make adjustments to help your trays fit as comfortably as possible.
Metal Braces
The most well-known symbol of orthodontics, metal braces, is an appliance you can’t go wrong with choosing. Thanks to their affordability and tried-and-true technology to fix any complex dental issue, they have been around for years. Metal braces use brackets, wires, elastics, and additional components to shift your teeth into place by placing slight pressure on your teeth over a long period.
Reviewing Your Treatment Plan
After Dr. Desai has finished looking over the assessments we have taken, he will be able to provide you with his expert opinion in crafting your treatment plan and providing you with the best next steps. He will point out specific areas of concern that will be focused on, corrections you can expect, and much more. Dr. Desai can show you photos and videos of similar cases to better understand the change you will see in your own teeth.
The care process will be explained to you in full, including how often appointments will need to be scheduled, the best treatment options to achieve your smile goals and their expected levels of discomfort, insurance and payment plans, and much more. Any questions you have about your orthodontic needs can be answered so you have full confidence in our services upon leaving your appointment.
A Free Consultation on Us!
As mentioned, each new patient of Elm Tree Orthodontics is provided with a free consultation where the above assessments are conducted and your unique treatment plan is discussed. Dr. Desai values listening to each patient’s treatment goals and concerns and how we can make accommodations so your time with us is as comfortable as possible.
We value you coming into our practice and want to make the most of your time. If you feel prepared to start, our team will happily begin treatment the same day after your treatment plan overview. You can take the first step in scheduling your appointment with us today by visiting our free consultation webpage!
Join the Elm Tree Orthodontics Family Today!
Now that you understand how treatment plans are created at Elm Tree Orthodontics, we hope you feel more prepared for your first appointment. Of course, so much goes into each patient’s case that there is always room for questions. If something comes up, whether in the treatment chair or at home, you can contact our front desk, and one of our friendly staff at our Hamden or North Haven practices will direct your call to the right person. We can’t wait for you to get started!