What Happens at an Orthodontic Consultation? Here Is What to Expect

If you have never seen a specialist orthodontist before, the idea of a consultation can feel a little uncertain. What will they look at? Will they start treatment that day? How long does it take? And perhaps most importantly, will they give you useful information or just try to sign you up?

A good consultation should answer your questions, give you a clear picture of your options, and leave you feeling informed. Here is exactly what happens at an orthodontic consultation at a specialist practice, so you know what to expect before you even walk through the door.

Why See a Specialist Orthodontist Rather Than a General Dentist?

This is worth addressing first, because many people assume their general dentist can handle orthodontic treatment. While some dentists offer orthodontic services, a specialist orthodontist has completed an additional two to three years of full-time postgraduate training exclusively in orthodontics, beyond their dental degree.

This additional training means a specialist orthodontist is qualified to diagnose and treat a much wider range of concerns, including complex bite problems, jaw development issues, and cases that involve a combination of orthodontic and surgical treatment. For anything beyond a straightforward alignment case, a specialist is the appropriate choice. The Australian Society of Orthodontists maintains a register of specialist orthodontists and provides consumer guidance on what to look for in an orthodontic provider.

Dr Chan at Orthoworx is a specialist orthodontist with extensive academic recognition, including the Professor Milton Sims medal — awarded to the top graduating orthodontic postgraduate in Australia. Learn more about Dr Chan and the Orthoworx team.

What Happens During the Consultation?

Step 1: Initial Discussion

The consultation begins with a conversation. You (or your child) will be asked about your concerns, what has prompted the visit, and what you hope to achieve from treatment. This is your opportunity to ask questions and raise anything that has been on your mind. There is no expectation that you know what you want or what treatment you need at this stage.

Step 2: Clinical Examination

Your orthodontist will examine your teeth, bite, and jaw. They will assess the alignment of your teeth (how crowded or spaced they are), the relationship between your upper and lower jaws, and whether there are any concerns with the way your teeth bite together. They may also look at your facial profile — orthodontic treatment can influence not just your teeth but also your overall facial harmony.

Step 3: Photographs and Records

In most cases, the consultation will include photographs of your face and smile from multiple angles. These are used for diagnosis and as a reference point throughout treatment. You may also have X-rays taken depending on your situation. For children, a panoramic X-ray — which shows all teeth including those yet to emerge — is particularly useful for understanding how the adult teeth are developing.

What Comes After the Clinical Assessment?

Diagnosis and Treatment Discussion

Based on the examination and records, your orthodontist will explain what they found and what options are available to you. At Orthoworx, this discussion covers the full range of treatment types — traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign — so you understand what each option involves before making any decision.

Honest Recommendations

A good orthodontist will give you their genuine clinical recommendation rather than simply directing you toward the most expensive option. If your case is better suited to braces than Invisalign, they will say so. If early treatment is recommended for your child, they will explain why. If monitoring is sufficient for now, they will tell you that too.

A Personalised Treatment Plan

If you decide to proceed, a detailed treatment plan will be developed specifically for you. This covers the type of treatment recommended, the estimated duration, appointment frequency, and the anticipated cost. Understanding your payment options before committing helps you plan accordingly. Contact Orthoworx directly to discuss payment plans and what works for your situation.

Will I Start Treatment at the Consultation?

In most cases, no. The consultation is for assessment and planning. Treatment typically begins at a separate appointment after the treatment plan has been confirmed and any pre-treatment records are complete. However, this can vary depending on the practice and the complexity of the case.

Questions to Ask at Your Orthodontic Consultation

What to Bring to Your Consultation

If you have any previous dental X-rays or records, bring them. If your child is having a consultation, bring a parent or guardian who can be part of the discussion and ask questions. Bring your private health insurance card so the practice can check your orthodontic benefit on the spot. Most importantly, bring your questions. The consultation is as much for your benefit as it is for the orthodontist’s assessment. Leave knowing exactly what your options are and what the next step looks like.

You may also find it helpful to read up on your options before attending. Our guides on whether Invisalign is worth it and the difference between braces and Invisalign are a good starting point if you have not already read them.

Frequently Asked Questions

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