Taking the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile is exciting — but it can also come with a few questions. If you’ve scheduled your first orthodontic appointment at Peach Orthodontics, you may be wondering what to expect.
Don’t worry — we’re here to walk you through every step of the process. Whether you’re a parent bringing in your child or an adult starting treatment for yourself, our team is committed to making your first visit easy, informative, and stress-free.
Here’s a full look at what happens during your first orthodontic visit and how to prepare.
A Warm Welcome and Office Tour
When you arrive at our office in Hayden, you’ll be greeted by our friendly front desk team. We want you to feel at home from the moment you walk in. If you haven’t already completed your new patient forms online, you’ll have a chance to fill them out in our office before your appointment begins.
We’ll also give you a quick tour of the space so you can feel comfortable and know where everything is — from the brushing station to our consultation rooms.
Medical and Dental History Review
Next, we’ll go over your dental and medical history. This helps us understand your overall oral health and identify any factors that might influence your treatment plan.
Be prepared to share:
- Any previous dental work or orthodontic treatment
- Medical conditions (such as TMJ, diabetes, or medications that may affect bone or tissue health)
- Your goals and concerns related to your smile or bite
Understanding your background allows us to tailor your care and recommend the best approach for your needs.
Digital X-Rays and Photos
To get a full picture of your teeth and jaw alignment, we’ll take digital X-rays and photographs of your face and smile. These images help our orthodontists see:
- The position of your teeth and roots
- The alignment of your jawbones
- Whether teeth are impacted or missing
- Growth patterns that might affect treatment
This step is quick and painless — and it gives us the detailed information needed to design an effective treatment plan.
A Comprehensive Exam
After your records are taken, you’ll meet with one of our experienced orthodontists — Dr. Brent Rickheim or Dr. Brendan Smith — for a thorough examination of your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment.
We’ll check for:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Bite problems like overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Jaw joint function
- Overall oral health and readiness for treatment
We’ll also discuss any habits (like thumb sucking or teeth grinding) that could influence treatment. Our goal is to fully understand your smile and how we can help you achieve your goals.
Your Personalized Treatment Plan
Once we’ve reviewed your exam and X-rays, we’ll talk through your treatment options. This is where we begin building a customized plan tailored specifically to your smile.
We’ll walk you through:
- The recommended treatment type (e.g., braces or Invisalign)
- How long your treatment is expected to take
- What to expect at different stages
- Your responsibilities for keeping treatment on track
- Cost estimates and payment options
You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions. We want you to feel 100% confident in your treatment plan and know exactly what to expect moving forward.
A Conversation About Financial Options
We know that affordability matters. That’s why our team will also go over the financial side of treatment — in a clear, pressure-free way.
We’ll review:
- Insurance benefits and coverage
- Flexible monthly payment plans
- Any current promotions or discounts
Our goal is to make orthodontic care accessible, and we’re happy to work with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget.
Same-Day Starts Available
If you’re ready and the treatment plan is straightforward, we can often begin treatment the same day as your consultation. Many of our patients choose this option to save time and take immediate action toward their new smile.
Of course, there’s never any pressure. If you need time to think about your options or review details at home, that’s completely fine too. We’re here to support you at your pace.
What Should You Bring to Your First Appointment?
To make the most of your visit, we recommend bringing:
- A list of any questions or concerns you may have
- Your insurance information
- A photo ID
- Any referral paperwork (if provided by your dentist)
Bringing these items will help us get started smoothly and ensure you get the answers you need.
What Happens After the First Appointment?
After your consultation, we’ll schedule your next visit to officially start treatment — whether that means placing braces, delivering your first set of Invisalign aligners, or taking additional scans.
You’ll also receive a welcome packet with tips for care, hygiene guidelines, and an overview of your treatment journey. From here, you’ll begin a series of regular visits (usually every 6–10 weeks) so we can monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Why Choose Peach Orthodontics?
Choosing the right orthodontist is an important decision, and we’re honored to be a trusted partner in your smile journey. At Peach Orthodontics, we provide:
- Experienced care from board-certified orthodontists
- A welcoming environment for patients of all ages
- The latest technology for more precise, comfortable treatment
- Flexible financing and free consultations
- A team that truly cares about your comfort and results
We proudly serve patients from Hayden, Post Falls, Rathdrum, and surrounding Idaho communities — and we’d love to help you take the first step toward your best smile.
Ready to Schedule Your First Visit?
Whether you’re exploring treatment for yourself or your child, your first orthodontic appointment is a big milestone — and we’re here to make it a great experience.
Call Peach Orthodontics today or book your free consultation online. We’ll answer your questions, guide you every step of the way, and help you smile with confidence from day one.