The Blueprint Session

Your first visit is not just an exam; it is a discovery session. Our goal is to determine the necessity, timing, and engineering strategy for your treatment.

The Consultation

When you arrive, you will be greeted by our treatment coordinator. We will guide you through a comprehensive diagnostic process to build a 3D model of your smile.

• Digital Photos: We take a series of facial and intraoral photos to analyze your profile and smile arc.
• iTero 3D Scan: No more gooey impressions. We use a digital wand to capture 6,000 frames per second, creating a microscopic, rotatable map of your teeth and bite.
• X-Rays: If indicated, we take low-radiation digital radiographs to see root positions and jaw bone health.

The Doctor's Analysis

Dr. Updike will review these records with you on a large screen. We believe in transparency—you will see exactly what we see. We will answer four key questions:

1. Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
2. What must be done to correct it (Braces, Invisalign, Expansion)?
3. How long will the treatment take?
4. How much will it cost?

Starting Treatment

If you are ready to proceed, we can often start same-day to save you a trip.

The Bonding Appointment (60 - 90 Minutes):
This is the day you get your braces or attachments placed. It is a longer visit because precision takes time. We meticulously position every bracket to ensure the forces are directed correctly.

Regular Adjustments (25 - 45 Minutes):
Once treatment is underway, we will see you every 4 to 8 weeks. These visits are shorter. We check your progress, change wires, and make fine-tuned adjustments to the force systems.