First Visit
Your first appointment at Coastal Smiles Family Orthodontics is all about comfort, clarity, and connection. When you arrive, our friendly front-desk team will welcome you and help you settle in. You’ll then meet Dr. Samantha Cardinal, who will complete a thorough orthodontic evaluation and walk you through personalized treatment options in a simple, easy-to-understand way.
Our goal is to make your visit stress-free, informative, and tailored, whether you’re a parent bringing in your child or an adult exploring orthodontic treatment for yourself.
Why Does the First Orthodontic Consultation Matter?
Your first visit is designed to help you get answers, understand your smile needs, and feel confident about the next steps. During this appointment, we will:
Review your medical and dental history
Complete a full orthodontic exam, which may include digital X-rays
Identify whether treatment is recommended
Map out a customized treatment plan
Discuss options such as braces, Invisalign®, or growth-guided appliances
Review payment options, insurance benefits, and flexible financing
By the end, you’ll know exactly what your smile needs and what to expect moving forward.
What Happens After the Initial Exam?
If Dr. Cardinal recommends treatment, the next step is collecting diagnostic records. These records help us precisely plan your orthodontic journey and may be completed during your first visit when scheduling allows.
Your diagnostic records may include:
Digital photographs of your teeth and bite
Digital scans or models of your teeth
Panoramic and cephalometric X-rays
Doctor analysis and measurements
Once records are complete, you’ll return for your case presentation appointment, where Dr. Cardinal reviews your customized plan and answers any final questions before treatment begins.
What Should You Expect When Starting Treatment?
After you approve your personalized plan, we’ll schedule your first treatment appointment. This is when your braces, aligners, or prescribed appliances are placed. Appointments typically take 30–60 minutes, and our team ensures you feel comfortable from start to finish.
Your Visits During Treatment
Routine visits every 4–8 weeks help keep your progress on track. We’ll always work to schedule appointments at times convenient for your family’s schedule.
If something unexpected comes up, running late, an appointment change, or a broken wire, just let us know. We’re here to help you keep moving forward.
You should also continue your regular cleanings and checkups with your family dentist. If additional dental care is needed, we’ll coordinate with your dentist to make sure your overall oral health stays on track.
What is the Cost of Orthodontic Care?
The cost of treatment can vary depending on your unique needs, but we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality orthodontics. At your first visit, our treatment coordinator will review:
Total treatment fees
Payment plan options
Insurance coverage and expected benefits
Flexible monthly options
We make every effort to keep orthodontics accessible and affordable for families in Naples and the surrounding communities.
Office Hours & Appointment Guidelines
We value your time and aim to see every patient promptly. Each appointment is planned so Dr. Cardinal can complete the necessary procedure, review progress, and give you plenty of time for questions.
Arriving on time helps us stay on schedule and ensures every patient receives the individualized care they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Orthodontic Visit
We know starting orthodontic treatment comes with lots of questions, especially if it’s your first visit. To help you feel prepared and confident, these quick, helpful explanations are designed to guide you through what to expect and make your experience at Coastal Smiles Family Orthodontics as smooth as possible. If you ever need more personalized guidance, our team is always here to help.
Will I get braces or aligners on my first visit?
In many cases, diagnostic records can be collected during your first visit, but braces or aligners are typically placed at your next appointment. If you’re hoping to start as soon as possible, let us know—we do our best to accommodate same-day starts when scheduling allows.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many insurance plans offer orthodontic benefits for children and sometimes adults. At your first visit, we’ll verify your coverage and give you a clear estimate of what your plan contributes so you know exactly what to expect.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation around age 7. Early visits help us monitor growth and spot developing concerns before they become bigger problems, especially for families in Naples where early interceptive care is growing in popularity.
Do I need a referral from my dentist to schedule an orthodontic consultation?
No referral is required. Many patients book their first visit directly with us, whether they’re experiencing dental changes, bite concerns, or simply want a professional opinion. We’re always happy to see you, even if it’s just for peace of mind.
Can I get a second opinion before starting orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely. Many families seek a second opinion to better understand their options, compare treatment approaches, or confirm that orthodontic care is the right choice. We welcome the opportunity to review your case and offer our recommendations with no pressure.