If you’re thinking about braces or Invisalign for yourself or your child, an orthodontic consultation is the first and most important step. Whether you’re eager to start treatment or simply curious about your options, scheduling a consultation gives you answers, insight, and a clear path forward.
The good news? Most orthodontic consultations are completely complimentary—and designed to give you all the information you need to make a confident decision without any pressure.
Let’s break down what actually happens at an orthodontic consultation, what to bring, and why taking the time for this appointment can make all the difference in your smile journey.
What Is an Orthodontic Consultation?
An orthodontic consultation is a one-on-one evaluation with an orthodontist. It’s not a commitment—it’s a conversation.
This appointment allows you (or your child) to meet the doctor, ask questions, and find out if orthodontic treatment is recommended. It also gives the orthodontic team a chance to assess your smile, bite, and jaw alignment to determine which treatment options are best suited for your goals.
Who Should Schedule a Consultation?
Consultations are ideal for:
- Children age 7 and up — This is the age recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists for a first evaluation, even if no issues are obvious yet.
- Teens with crowding or bite concerns — Middle and high school is a common time to begin treatment.
- Adults considering braces or clear aligners — It’s never too late, and adult consultations are more popular than ever.
- Patients with relapsed movement — If you had braces in the past and your teeth have shifted, a consult can reveal your options.
Whether you’re proactive, curious, or facing a specific concern, a consultation gives you clarity.
What Happens During the Appointment?
Orthodontic consultations are typically quick, comfortable, and informative. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Warm Welcome and Health History
You’ll be greeted by the front office team and asked to fill out a brief health history form. If you’re bringing a child, this is a great time to share any concerns you’ve noticed—like crowding, thumb-sucking, or trouble chewing.
2. Photos and Digital Imaging
The orthodontic team may take digital photos of the teeth and face, as well as panoramic or 3D X-rays. These images help the doctor evaluate the position of teeth, jaw growth, and any underlying issues that might not be visible in a mirror.
3. Orthodontic Exam
The orthodontist will examine the teeth, bite, jaw alignment, and facial balance. This isn’t painful or invasive—it’s simply a visual and manual assessment.
4. Personalized Treatment Recommendation
Based on the evaluation, the doctor will explain:
- Whether treatment is needed (and when to begin)
- What options are available (braces, Invisalign, LightForce, etc.)
- How long treatment is likely to take
- What the overall cost would be
You’ll have a chance to ask questions, see before-and-after examples, and learn more about what’s possible.
What Should You Bring?
To make the most of your consultation, bring:
- Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
- Completed new patient forms (some offices offer digital forms in advance)
- A list of questions or concerns
- Your child’s dentist referral (if you have one, though it’s not required)
The more information you can provide, the more personalized your experience will be.
Is the Consultation Really Free?
Yes—for most practices, including TG Orthodontics, the consultation is completely complimentary. There’s no charge, no obligation, and no pressure to begin treatment.
Think of it as a free opportunity to learn more about your smile, get professional advice, and see if treatment feels like the right next step.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Even if you’re not sure you’re ready for treatment, a consultation offers valuable insight. Here’s why it’s worth scheduling:
- Peace of mind — You’ll know for sure whether orthodontic care is needed and what your options are.
- Early detection — Especially for kids, early evaluation can catch issues before they become more complex.
- Smarter planning — You can budget for treatment, review insurance coverage, and explore payment options before making a decision.
- Relationship building — You’ll get a feel for the office, the doctor’s approach, and whether it’s the right fit for your family.
Ultimately, a consultation gives you control. You walk away with answers, not questions.
How Soon Can Treatment Begin?
For many patients, treatment can begin within a few weeks of the consultation—especially if records are taken during the first visit. However, every case is different. Some younger patients may be advised to wait and return for monitoring in 6–12 months.
Either way, you’ll leave the consultation with a clear timeline and plan.
Ready to Take the First Step? We’re Here for You
At TG Orthodontics in Marlboro, NJ, we believe education and empowerment are key to a successful smile journey. That’s why we offer complimentary orthodontic consultations for kids, teens, and adults. Whether you’re exploring braces, Invisalign, or early intervention, we’ll give you honest answers and personalized recommendations—with no obligation.
Schedule your free consultation today and discover how simple it can be to get started.