Are you interested in starting your smile journey but wondering what to expect? Don’t worry! So much goes into making your care successful, but Tilghman Orthodontics has put together a guide on the basics of how orthodontists create a treatment plan for each patient. Read on to learn more about all the considerations for finding the perfect appliance for you.
Assessing Your Orthodontic Needs
When you come in for your free consultation, Dr. Tilghman and our team will take some digital and physical records so we can learn as much as possible about the current condition of your teeth and how your treatment plan can best reflect resolving them.
We will begin by taking you back to a diagnostic exam area where Dr. Tilghman conducts a brief but thorough assessment of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This helps us get a better idea of what to look out for in the steps to come. Following this is capturing some digital photographs. They are great for referencing specific areas of concern early in the process, but they also allow you to see how much your hard work has paid off at the end of treatment!
Next comes a digital impression taken with the latest orthodontic technology, the iTero element scanner. This wand creates a 3D model of your teeth, so our team can see their placement and make comfortable fitting custom appliances during treatment. X-rays are the last diagnostic taken of your teeth to better understand their development and how everything connects below the surface. If your dentist has taken a recent one in the past six months, please bring it in with you.
Reviewing Your Treatment Plan
After looking over your medical history and the results of your exam, Dr. Tilghman will bring you into a private consultation room where he discusses what orthodontic issues are present, what appliance he recommends, whether or not treatment is needed immediately, as well as the cost of care and our flexible payment plans. We encourage you to ask as many questions as you need so you can feel confident in beginning care with us and completely understand each step of the process.
Available Treatment Options
Clear Aligners
At Tilghman Orthodontics, we proudly provide three types of clear aligners: Invisalign, 3M Clarity, and Smiles Correct. Invisalign and 3M Clarity can reach our smile goals with a series of aesthetically pleasing clear plastic trays custom-crafted to fit your teeth comfortably. We use the 3D computer model of your teeth to create them and make adjustments so your teeth end up in the ideal position.
Smiles Correct is an affordable alternative to our other clear aligner selections for patients looking to straighten their teeth with the same technology of clear aligner trays, gradually shifting your teeth in the correct position.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are an innovative appliance that combines strength with aesthetics. This fully customized treatment uses ceramic composite material to create brackets that blend right in with your teeth. We craft each bracket to fit your teeth perfectly and ensure your treatment plan is as effective and efficient as possible. These braces fit more comfortably than traditional options and are just as effective in reaching your smile goals.
Modern Metal Braces
A tried-and-true option, modern metal braces are the most popular treatment choice, thanks to their long history of success. Now smaller and more discreet than ever, this appliance can treat any dental issue, no matter how complex.
They are made up of high-grade stainless steel brackets, wires, elastics, and other components to place slight pressure on your teeth throughout your treatment plan to shift them into the perfect position. You can now customize them with different colored elastics if you want to show off your braces with a bold look.
Budget and Cost
We understand the cost of care can be a stressor for some patients. Tilghman Orthodontics does our best to make high-quality treatment an option for everyone in our community so you can focus on what’s important: your brand-new smile!
As mentioned, Dr. Tilghman will break down the estimated cost of your unique treatment plan during your initial appointment, explaining each element that goes into your investment. This includes how long care will last, how different appliances compare, and how the current condition of your teeth affects the process.
Our team is committed to staying transparent with our patients and ensuring they fully understand the financials behind their treatment so nothing comes as a surprise later on. We strive to keep care accessible for everyone by providing flexible payment options and third-party financing. For more information, you can visit our Financials & Insurance webpage.
Your Smile Goals
Dr. Tilghman includes your aesthetic and lifestyle preferences in creating your treatment plan and choosing your appliance recommendation. We understand the importance of patients’ confidence not only once their appliance is removed but throughout the entirety of treatment as well. Our team does our best to include any accommodations in your care.
For example, for some patients who are seeking the most effective treatment for their bite issues, unconcerned with aesthetics, Dr. Tilghman may consider recommending modern metal braces. Others may be interested in finding a removable appliance that can accomplish their goals for more flexibility, considering the duration of treatment. No matter your preferences, we encourage you to share them with us at your appointment.
Begin Trusted Treatment with Tilghman Orthodontics!
No matter where your teeth are in your smile journey, you can rely on Tilghman Orthodontics to provide expert care and a treatment plan where you can notice a difference in your teeth before you know it! Our Salisbury and Berlin practices offer free consultations to assist those looking to start their care. Take the first step toward a perfect smile and schedule yours today.