What Is Smile Assessment?
A useful assessment considers more than straightness. Dr. Brumbaugh reviews bite, tooth position, jaw relationships, oral health, age, growth and patient goals before explaining whether monitoring or treatment should be considered.
Children, teens and adults can request an assessment for crowding, spacing, bite concerns, relapse after past treatment or questions about braces and aligners. An online photo cannot replace an in-person examination or diagnostic records.
How Evaluation and Care Work
1. Listen
Discuss concerns, goals, health history and previous orthodontic care.
2. Evaluate
Review alignment, bite, jaw relationships and the records appropriate for diagnosis.
3. Explain
Compare suitable options, responsibilities, timing and estimated cost.
4. Monitor
Check progress and adjust the plan when clinical findings require it.
What Patients Should Expect
Bring your questions, insurance information and any relevant history. The team explains what records are needed, which options fit the diagnosis, the likely responsibilities and estimated cost before treatment begins.
Experiences, timing and results vary by diagnosis and patient response. Follow the instructions provided for your individual plan and contact the team when questions arise.
This page is reviewed for clinical accuracy by Jeffrey Brumbaugh, DDS, MS, an American Board of Orthodontics-certified orthodontist. It provides general education and does not replace an individual examination, diagnosis or treatment plan.
Independent patient resource: American Association of Orthodontists: First Appointment.
