Three Convenient South Jersey Locations

Cherry Hill 856-428-1888
Hammonton 609-561-2424
Vineland 856-696-2600

 

FIRST VISIT

WHAT HAPPENS AT MY FIRST VISIT? TYPES OF ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS THE IMPORTANCE OF TREATMENT BENEFITS OF A SPECIALIST

WHAT ARE THE FIRST STEPS FOR TREATMENT? WHAT IS A CONSULTATION APPOINTMENT?

For your first visit, here's a preview video to help familiarize you with what you can expect.

THE AGE 7 RULE:


The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child should visit an orthodontist for a checkup no later than age 7. Although treatment will not necessarily begin at this early age, an examination is important to ensure maximum dental health for your child.

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WELCOME!
WHAT HAPPENS AT MY FIRST VISIT?

At your first appointment, the Batastini Orthodontics family has one primary goal ~ to make you comfortable. We answer your questions and listen to your concerns before providing a comprehensive orthodontic examination. At that point, Dr. Batastini will be able to clearly indicate whether or not treatment is needed. If it is recommended, we will outline the best time to start the treatment.

Although we would like to be able to answer all your questions, an exact fee for treatment will not be possible until after the diagnostic evaluation. We would be able to give you a range for the cost of treatment at this appointment.

TYPES OF ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS

The technical term for teeth and jaws that do not fit and work together properly is "malocclusion," commonly called a "bad bite." Most malocclusions are inherited, but some are acquired.

Inherited problems include crowding or spacing of the teeth caused by a difference in the size of the teeth and jaws or differing facial patterns of the parents.

Acquired malocclusions can be caused by finger sucking, tongue position, airway obstruction, dental disease, or premature loss or retention of the primary (baby) teeth.

Whether inherited or acquired, many of these problems affect not only alignment of the teeth but also facial appearance. It also is important to note that orthodontic problems can be present behind perfectly acceptable smiles. An orthodontic specialist is especially qualified to diagnose existing or potential conditions that require treatment.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TREATMENT

Every parent wants his or her child to have a beautiful smile-and every child should have a healthy smile with properly functioning teeth. The orthodontist's goal is to achieve both for the patient.

Untreated malocclusions may contribute to conditions that cause tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, loss of teeth, mouth breathing and jaw joint problems. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is truly applicable here.

In addition, uncorrected problems can adversely affect a child's speech, general health and self-esteem.

A child's self-confidence almost always increases when his or her smile is improved. This also has an impact on those around the child-parents, siblings, teachers and other children. Successful treatment can lead to greater success in all areas of the child's life. In short, the value of a beautiful, healthy smile should not be underestimated.

BENEFITS OF A SPECIALIST

Some things have to be done right the first time. Orthodontic treatment will change your child's teeth and can improve facial appearance. So you'll want a specialist to treat your child.

Orthodontists limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics unless they also have qualified in another American Dental Association (ADA) recognized specialty. By completing an advanced education program following dental school, they have learned the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.

WHAT ARE THE FIRST STEPS FOR TREATMENT?

When the time is right to start orthodontic treatment, the first step is to gather diagnostic records, including photographs of your face, smile and teeth. Additionally, impressions of your teeth and various x-rays are attained by the Batastini team. In general, this appointment will take one hour.

Once the records have been completed, a consultation appointment is scheduled approximately two weeks later. This allows Dr. Batastini to review and study the case and tailor an individualized treatment plan.

WHAT IS A CONSULTATION APPOINTMENT?

At the consultation appointment, Dr. Batastini and his team will propose a personal treatment plan specific to your case. This can only be done after a thorough analysis of the orthodontic issues. We will discuss:

The proposed treatment plan often highlights alternative approaches and if you agree with one of the courses of therapy, treatment will begin at the following appointment. It is also at this time when we will give you the exact fee for the treatment plan selected and review the various available payment options.