What will happen at the first visit?
On your first visit to AHP, you will discuss your concerns about your pet’s current problems and go over your pet’s history. Please bring with you any pertinent x-rays, copies of blood tests or other diagnostic tests, and copies of medical records for your pet. If you would prefer, we can contact your other veterinarian(s) and request that they send us this information. Just let us know with enough advance notice so that we can get this done before your appointment. After reviewing history, the doctor will examine your pet and discuss with you her findings and recommendations. The first treatment will be done and we will answer any questions you may have.
Dr. Joseph will do a thorough exam of the patient’s mouth to determine if there is a need for orthodontic treatment. He will be checking to see if there is enough room for all of the permanent teeth, if the top teeth and the bottom teeth are lined up correctly, and if there are any missing teeth. Careful measurements of the teeth and their relationship to each other will be made. Digital photographs of the patient’s head, face, and mouth will be taken. Impressions (molds of the teeth) and a panoramic x-ray may be obtained at this visit. A detailed history will be obtained, including any history of breathing problems, finger or tongue habits, and jaw joint pain. After examining your child, Dr. Joseph will meet with you to preliminarily discuss his findings. He will be able to indicate if there is an orthodontic problem, and if the time is right to proceed with complete records if the impressions and x-ray were not taken at the first visit. He will give you an estimate of treatment cost
