First ortho appt

[Kim]

So I just got back from an appointment with an orthodontist. I haven't decided on one yet, as I want to look around and find one I feel comfortable with. He looked at my teeth and said I'd probably have to get a tooth in the top front of my mouth removed to make room if I got braces. He then said he can't be sure until they make models of my teeth and look at x-rays more closely.

I was expecting a price quote, but they said that won't be possible until I schedule another appointment to get the models and necessary x-rays done. However, that will cost me $325 ($250 if I bring in a panoramic x-ray from my dentist).

How am I supposed to check out other orthodontists if it costs this much just to get a price quote?

Any advice is welcome. Thanks guys!

[mikeg]

Get the xrays and molds done and make sure they are yours to take . This way you can take them to several orthos for consults. You really need to make sure the ortho will give them to you... so ask before the consultation.

[Sunny]

Great you're going to have more than one consult!

To have a thorough consult you need to have moulds and x-rays done, so that the ortho can examine these to produce the best treatment plan. Some ortho's will give a possible treatment plan without these, but it will still need to be done.

I agree with Mike, ask if you can have the x-rays with you after the consult, so that you can share them with the next orthodontist.

This phase can be a long one and like anything worth having, it can cost, as you're consulting with people who've spent a load of money to become as well qualified as they are.

Good luck with finding the right orthodontist for you!