Aug 21, 2026

Your First Orthodontic Consultation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Your first visit should feel calm, clear, and pressure free. At Braces n Faces Orthodontics in Geelong and Hoppers Crossing, your free initial consultation is all about understanding your goals, checking your teeth and bite, and mapping out a plan that fits your life.

No referral is needed. You can book directly, bring your questions, and leave with a clear picture of what treatment could look like, including a written quote and timeline.

Below is exactly what happens, how to prepare, and what you will walk out with after your first appointment.

What your free consultation includes

Your first appointment is complimentary. It typically includes:

• A clinical assessment with a Specialist Orthodontist.
• Photos and an iTero digital scan for accurate 3D records where appropriate.
• A 3D treatment preview so you can see a likely smile outcome before you start.
• A discussion of options like braces, ceramic or LightForce™ clear braces, and Invisalign® or Spark aligners.
• An outline of the estimated treatment timeline.
• A written quote with flexible payment options.

If X-rays are needed for diagnosis, your orthodontist will explain why and when. Most patients do not need additional imaging at this first visit.

Step by step: what happens on the day

You will be greeted by our team, then meet your orthodontist to talk through your goals. A gentle clinical examination follows. This checks tooth positions, spacing, bite, and jaw function.

If helpful for planning, we will take clinical photos and complete an iTero digital scan. Your orthodontist will then show you a 3D preview and explain a tailored plan. You will finish with a written quote, payment options, and time for questions. There is no pressure to decide on the spot.

The iTero scan and 3D simulation

An iTero scan is a quick, comfortable digital scan of your teeth. A small wand captures thousands of images to create a precise 3D model. There is no goo and no trays.

From this model we can generate a 3D simulation that previews likely changes to tooth alignment and smile shape. It is a visual guide to help you understand the path ahead. Your final result depends on many factors, but the preview is very helpful for decision making and timing.

How long the first appointment takes

Most first consultations take about 45 to 60 minutes. This gives time for the assessment, scan, 3D preview, discussion of options, and your quote. If you have complex concerns or multiple family members attending, allow a little longer.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring anything that helps us plan well on day one:

• Recent dental X-rays if you have them.
• Your private health fund details and membership number.
• A list of medicines and relevant medical history.
• Photos of your smile concerns if you have specific angles you want to discuss.
• Your questions and goals, including timing around school, work, sport, or events.

If you are exploring Invisalign®, wearing any existing retainers or aligners to your visit can help us assess fit and tooth movement history.

What you will leave with

You will leave with:

• A clear understanding of your bite and treatment options.
• A likely timeline, including key milestones.
• A written, itemised quote.
• Payment plan choices that can include interest free weekly or fortnightly options. Plan structures vary by case and will be outlined for you.

You are welcome to take time to consider your options. If you are ready, we can book next steps such as records or fitting.

No referral needed

You do not need a dentist referral to see us. You can book directly at Braces n Faces Orthodontics in Geelong or Hoppers Crossing. If your dentist has shared notes, bring them along, but it is not required.

 

Fees, quotes, and payment plans

Costs vary by case complexity, appliance type, and treatment length. After your assessment and iTero scan, you will receive a transparent, written quote. Flexible, interest free payment plans are available. Many patients choose weekly or fortnightly payments. If you have Extras cover, we can provide item numbers to check your rebate with your fund.

If you are comparing aligners or braces later, you can read more about costs and plan structures on our site. For a closer look at transformations, our before and after gallery is also helpful.

Locations and booking

We offer free consultations at both clinics:

• Geelong, Latrobe Terrace, Newtown
• Hoppers Crossing, 92 Derrimut Rd

Ready to get started? Book your free consultation.

For directions and parking details for Geelong, see our Geelong clinic page. For aligner information specific to adults, you can explore our Invisalign® treatment overview.

Quick FAQ

Do you offer free consultations and what is included?
Yes. Your first consult includes a clinical assessment, iTero scan where appropriate, a 3D preview, discussion of options, a timeline, and a written quote.

What happens during an iTero scan and 3D simulation?
A small wand scans your teeth to create a precise 3D model. We use this to show a likely smile preview and explain your treatment path.

How long does the first appointment take?
Typically 45 to 60 minutes.

What should I bring to my consultation?
Health fund details, any recent X-rays, medical history, photos of concerns, and your questions.

Will I get a written quote and payment plan options?
Yes. You will receive an itemised quote and flexible, interest free payment options. Exact structures vary by case.

Summary and next step

Your first visit is designed to give you clarity. You will see your teeth in 3D, understand your options, and leave with a clear plan and written quote. No referral is needed. Book your free consultation.