Walking into an orthodontist’s office for the first time can feel like a big step, whether you’re a parent bringing your child, a teen ready for a new look, or an adult finally doing something for yourself. Knowing what happens at your first orthodontic consultation makes the whole experience easier and a lot more exciting. At Kanning Orthodontics, we’ve turned the first visit into something families genuinely look forward to.
Here’s exactly what you can expect, start to finish.
What Is an Orthodontic Consultation?
An orthodontic consultation is a complimentary diagnostic visit where a smile architect evaluates your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to determine if treatment is needed and which options fit best. It typically takes 45 to 60 minutes and includes a clinical exam, digital imaging, and a treatment plan discussion.
Most consultations don’t involve starting treatment the same day. Instead, this visit is all about information, options, and answering your questions. You’ll leave with a clear picture of what your smile needs and how to get there.
At Kanning Orthodontics, every first visit is complimentary. That means no pressure and no obligation to move forward. It’s simply a chance to meet Dr. Kanning or Dr. Sebastian, explore your options, and decide what makes sense for you or your child.
How Your First Consultation Works: Step-by-Step
Your first orthodontist appointment follows a smooth, predictable flow. Here’s what happens from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave with a plan in hand.
- Welcome and intake paperwork. You’ll be greeted by our team and asked to complete a brief medical and dental history form. If you have recent dental records, bring them along. (You can fill forms out ahead of time to save a few minutes.)
- Meet the clinical team and treatment coordinator. A friendly team member will walk you back, give you a tour, and help you feel at home. This is where our “home away from home” promise starts.
- Digital scans, photos, and X-rays. Using the latest technology, we capture digital scans of your teeth, along with photos and low-dose X-rays. No goopy impressions. The whole process is quick, clean, and comfortable.
- Clinical exam. Dr. Kanning or Dr. Sebastian will carefully examine your teeth, bite, and jaw. They’re looking at alignment, spacing, bite function, and growth patterns (for younger patients).
- Treatment plan review. This is the fun part. Your smile architect walks you through findings, shows you the images, and explains your options in plain language. You’ll know exactly what’s recommended and why.
- Next steps. Finally, our treatment coordinator answers any remaining questions. You can schedule your next appointment that day or take time to think it over.
Benefits of Scheduling a Consultation
Scheduling an orthodontic consultation gives you clarity. Even if you’re not sure you’re ready, this visit answers the questions that have been floating in the back of your mind. Here’s why so many Kansas City and Liberty families book one.
- Early identification of bite or alignment issues. Catching a bad bite early often means simpler treatment later. For children, timing matters, and a quick exam can reveal whether action is needed now or later.
- A personalized plan built around your goals. No two smiles are the same. Your plan reflects your lifestyle, your timeline, and the look you want. Love sports? Travel often? Hate the idea of brackets? We’ll factor it all in.
- A side-by-side look at treatment options. Clear aligners, LightForce clear braces, or traditional metal braces: you’ll see how each one compares for your specific case. Visual, honest, straightforward.
- No obligation, ever. The complimentary consultation at Kanning Orthodontics is truly complimentary. If the timing isn’t right or you want a second opinion, that’s completely fine.
- Peace of mind for parents. If you’re wondering whether your child needs early treatment, this visit removes the guesswork. You’ll know whether to act now, monitor growth, or wait a few years.
Treatment Options Your Orthodontist May Discuss
During your treatment plan review, Dr. Kanning or Dr. Sebastian will walk you through the options that fit your case. Kanning Orthodontics offers several paths to a beautiful smile, and here’s a quick look at what each one brings to the table.
Clear Aligners. Removable, nearly invisible trays that gradually shift teeth into place. Great for teens and adults who want flexibility and discretion. You can take them out for meals, special occasions, and brushing.
LightForce Clear Braces. Custom 3D-printed ceramic braces designed specifically for your teeth. The precision helps deliver amazing results, often with fewer adjustments along the way.
Traditional Metal Braces. Strong, reliable, and ideal for more complex cases. Modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than the ones you may remember.
Early (Phase 1) Treatment. For growing children, early treatment can guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth to come in properly.
Treatment Comparison at a Glance
| Option | Visibility | Removable | Typical Treatment Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clear Aligners | Nearly invisible | Yes | 12-24 months | Teens and adults wanting discretion |
| LightForce Clear Braces | Very subtle | No | 12-24 months | Precision cases, image-conscious patients |
| Metal Braces | Visible | No | 12-24 months | Complex cases, all ages |
| Early Treatment | Varies | Varies | 6-12 months (Phase 1) | Children ages 7-10 |
Your smile architect will recommend the option that balances your goals, timeline, and lifestyle.
Who Should Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation?
Orthodontics is for all ages, and the right time to visit varies by life stage. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, every child should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That doesn’t mean treatment starts then, it just means we have a baseline to work from.
Here’s who typically benefits most from scheduling a visit:
- Children by age 7. An early exam catches developing bite issues before they become bigger ones.
- Teens with emerging alignment or bite concerns. The teen years are often the best window for braces or clear aligners.
- Adults who want a better smile. It’s never too late. Many of our adult patients start treatment in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
- Patients referred by a general dentist. If your dentist suggested an orthodontic opinion, a complimentary consultation is the easiest next step.
- Anyone curious about clear aligners or braces. Even if you’re just exploring, a quick visit gives you real answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a first orthodontic consultation take?
Most first consultations take 45 to 60 minutes. That includes paperwork, digital scans and photos, a clinical exam, and a full treatment plan review. We never rush the conversation, so you’ll have time to ask every question on your mind.
Is the orthodontic consultation free?
Yes. At Kanning Orthodontics, every first visit is a complimentary consultation, including the exam, imaging, and treatment plan discussion, with no obligation to start treatment.
Do you get braces on the first visit?
In most cases, no. The first visit focuses on diagnosis and planning. Braces or aligners are typically placed at a separate appointment, which gives you time to review your plan and feel fully ready to move forward.
What should I bring to my first orthodontist appointment?
Bring a photo ID and any recent dental X-rays or records from your general dentist. If you’ve filled out intake forms online ahead of time, you’re all set. Showing up with just yourself works too.
At what age should my child have their first consultation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic exam by age 7. At that age, enough permanent teeth have come in to spot potential bite or spacing issues early, while there’s still plenty of time to guide growth if needed.
What are the 5 stages of braces treatment?
The typical stages are: (1) consultation and planning, (2) placement of braces or aligners, (3) active treatment with regular adjustments every 4 to 8 weeks, (4) debonding or completion of aligner trays, and (5) retention, where retainers hold your new smile in place long term.
Ready to Meet Us?
Your smile experience starts with one easy visit. Whether you’re in Kansas City or Liberty, we’d love to welcome you in and show you around.
Visit us at our Kansas City office at 9101 NE 82nd Terrace, and come see why families across the metro call Kanning Orthodontics their home away from home.
Schedule your complimentary consultation and let’s get your smile across the finish line.
