What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

There’s nothing quite like that first visit anticipation: equal parts curiosity and nerves, with a side of “Did I forget something?” For families around Sanford and Bayboro, meeting Dr. Brian and Dr. Lynn at Smith & Smith Orthodontics is often the first step toward something that fits naturally into everyday life. With a team that’s known for being friendly, thorough, and easy to talk to, the only thing you’ll need to bring is a little preparation. Up next, let’s take a look at what to pack for your first visit so everything goes off without a hitch.

The Basics to Bring Along

Before you head out the door to meet the team at Smith & Smith Orthodontics, there are a few must-haves that’ll help keep your first visit running smoothly (especially if you’re squeezing it in between school pick-up or a quick lunch stop at Ron’s Barn).

Be sure to pack:

  • A photo ID – A parent’s license works if you’re bringing a child.
  • Insurance card – If you have orthodontic coverage, this helps the team give you a better idea of what’s included.
  • Any referral slips – If your dentist sent you over, this gives the team a head start.
  • A list of medications – Especially for kids, it’s helpful for Dr. Brian and Dr. Lynn to know about anything that could affect oral health or treatment planning.

Bringing these items helps the team personalize your experience from the very beginning. Next, we’ll talk about something that can be just as helpful as paperwork: your questions.

No Such Thing as a Silly Question

You don’t need to have it all figured out. That’s what Dr. Brian and Dr. Lynn are here for! But jotting down a few questions ahead of time can make your first appointment feel more helpful and less like a blur. Whether you’re coming in after work or swinging by after a trip to SanLee Park, this is your chance to get real answers.

Some great questions to ask might include:

  • How long will treatment take?
  • What options are available for kids, teens, or adults?
  • Are clear aligners or braces a better fit for my lifestyle?
  • How often will I need to come in for checkups?
  • What’s the total cost, and are there flexible payment options?

This part of the visit is about starting a conversation with people who care about making the process work for your life. Up next, let’s look at how the first visit itself actually plays out.

What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

What Happens at the First Visit?

Once you step into Smith & Smith Orthodontics, the vibe is less “doctor’s office” and more “friendly local hangout.” You’ll be greeted by name, offered a smile (and maybe a joke), and invited to make yourself comfortable with free Wi-Fi and a beverage.

Here’s how your first visit usually goes:

Check-In Without the Stress

The front desk team makes things easy. You’ll confirm a few quick details, hand over your paperwork (if you haven’t submitted it already), and they’ll take it from there.

A Quick Look Behind the Smile

No messy trays or awkward bite molds. Instead, expect a fast, high-tech scan and a few photos to get a clear view of your teeth and how everything fits together.

Time With Dr. Brian or Dr. Lynn

They’ll walk you through what they see and talk about what could help. Not with a bunch of jargon, but in a way that actually makes sense.

A Game Plan That Fits You

You’ll hear about possible next steps, how long treatment might take, and the kinds of options that could work for your lifestyle.

Before you leave, you’ll have a real plan in your hands and a team ready to support you through it. Next up: let’s talk about who should tag along to that first appointment (and why it helps).

Who Should Come With You and Why It Helps

Bringing the right person along can make a big difference at your first visit to Smith & Smith Orthodontics. We want you to feel supported from the start!

For Kids

Having a parent or older sibling close by can ease nerves and help younger patients feel more comfortable during scans or conversations.

For Teens

Even independent teens appreciate backup. A parent can:

  • Help ask questions teens may not think of
  • Offer a second set of ears for treatment options
  • Handle insurance or scheduling details on the spot

For Parents

Bringing both guardians, if possible, helps simplify decision-making, especially if treatment needs to start soon. And if one parent can’t make it, a trusted adult can still help keep things moving smoothly.

Once you’ve got the right support system with you, it’s also helpful to know what happens after that first visit.

What Comes After the First Visit?

Once your first appointment wraps up, the next steps depend on your needs, timeline, and comfort level. But no matter the plan, Dr. Brian and Dr. Lynn make the process simple to follow and easy to manage.

If Treatment Starts Later

Some patients, especially younger ones, don’t need treatment right away. In those cases, you’ll be placed in a “growth and guidance” program with:

  • Quick check-ins every few months to track growth without disrupting your schedule
  • Keeping an eye on bite changes, jaw development, and tooth movement
  • Friendly reminders when it’s time for the next visit, so nothing slips through the cracks

If Treatment Starts Soon

For teens and adults ready to begin, you’ll be scheduled for a diagnostic records appointment and consultation. This usually includes:

  • Detailed scans, photos, and X-rays
  • A review of treatment options and timelines
  • Discussion of payment plans and next steps

By the time you head out the door after your first visit to Smith & Smith Orthodontics, you’ll know exactly what comes next, a plan that fits your life, and a team that treats you like family from the start!

What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

First Visits That Actually Feel Good

You’ve got the checklist, the questions, the inside scoop on what to expect, and now, the confidence to walk through the door! From the first hello at Smith & Smith Orthodontics to meeting Dr. Brian and Dr. Lynn, this visit is about making sure you feel seen, heard, and supported. When orthodontic care starts with comfort and clarity, everything else falls into place. Book your free consultation in Sanford or Bayboro today and see just how comfortable orthodontics can feel.