Our first step in providing orthodontic treatment will be to take a complete set of diagnostic orthodontic records. These records will include a series of photographs, x-rays, and impressions of your teeth.

Facial photographs are taken so that Dr. Paulos can study your facial contour as it relates to your tooth and jaw positions. After all, you do want a beautiful profile to go along with beautiful teeth when the braces are removed. The photographs of your teeth are a record of how your teeth look prior to orthodontic treatment.

Your entire mouth will be x-rayed to provide images of both the visible and hidden parts of your teeh and jaws. This x-ray is called a panelipse. An x-ray of your head (cephalometric x-ray) will also be needed. This x-ray allows Dr. Paulos to determine how the teeth and bones are and should be positioned.

Impressions of your teeth will be taken so that plaster models can be made to reveal the exact alignment of your top and bottom teeth. Dr. Paulos will determine how the teeth and bones are and should be positioned. All of these records provide Dr. Paulos with the tools needed to complete a thorough diagnosis.

At this appointment, separators may be placed. These are small rubber donuts that are positioned between the back teeth to create a small amount of space so that orthodontic bands, which go all the way around the back teeth, can be placed. These separators may cause your teeth to be tender for a few days. This tenderness is normal and will eventually reside.

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