First Visit

Your first orthodontic appointment. Your first visit to an orthodontist’s office is an exciting time. At Mack Orthodontics, we are always glad to welcome new patients to our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and Eldridge offices. It's a chance for us to get acquainted and for you to learn which of our orthodontic services—like braces or Invisalign—could improve and strengthen your smile.

What to Expect

Your first visit will begin by meeting one of our receptionists or patient coordinators who will take some information from you and bring you through the office. Then it's time for a thorough diagnostic examination. During the exam we will evaluate you oral and dental needs so our orthodontist, Dr. Steven Mack, can create your personalized treatment plan. After the exam we may dedicate some time to your diagnostic records. Diagnostic records include X-rays, photos, and impressions for study models, all of which are necessary to develop an appropriate individualized treatment plan. Following that, you and your orthodontist will discuss the best orthodontic treatment options for your needs.

Questions Addressed

During your first visit we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment:

Do you have a condition that orthodontic treatment can remedy?
Is treatment needed now, or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption, or other factors have occurred?
What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
How long will treatment take?
How much does treatment cost?
What payment options are available?

Once we have addressed these general questions, we encourage you to ask additional questions you may have. We are always happy to talk more in depth about your orthodontic treatment choices, what to expect at different stages of your orthodontic journey, and anything else you wish to talk about further.

What to Bring to Your First Appointment

In order for your first visit to run as efficiently as possible, we request that you please bring the following information to our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, or Eldridge office with you:

Any panoramic X-rays taken of your teeth/mouth within the last six months
Your insurance card if you have orthodontic insurance
Your filled out new patient forms

Open Communication

We believe that good orthodontic care begins with open communication. We promise to speak candidly with you about our diagnosis and recommendations, alternative treatments, and any symptoms that may require further treatment. Working together, we can achieve a true partnership with one common goal—helping you achieve a beautiful, confident smile!

The Next Step

At the end of your first visit to our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, or Eldridge office you’ll have a thorough understanding of how we can help you get the best smile possible. To begin the journey toward that smile, schedule an appointment with us today. We appreciate you choosing Dr. Mack as your trusted local orthodontist. If you need assistance finding our Bettendorf, Maquoketa, or Eldridge office, or have any questions prior to your first appointment, please contact us; we would be happy to help you. Our team looks forward to seeing you in the office soon!

Early Orthodontic Evaluation - Dear Doctor Magazine

Early Orthodontic Evaluation Early detection of orthodontic problems in young children may make it easier to correct those problems in the long run. Waiting until all of the permanent (adult) teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult or even impossible. An early childhood orthodontic evaluation can yield excellent results... Read Article