Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists is proud to be your answer for orthodontic solutions in and around St. Louis, and we’re dedicated to keeping you and your family informed about every step of the orthodontic treatment process. So what happens after your free consultation? Well, a whole lot, actually! Let’s get into it!
What Happens After Your Orthodontic Consultation?
For many new patients, that first orthodontic consultation is an exciting milestone—but it can also raise a few questions. Once you’ve met the team, had your photos and scans taken, and discussed your smile goals, you might wonder: What happens next?
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we make sure every step after your consultation is clear, comfortable, and tailored to you. From reviewing your personalized treatment plan to scheduling your first appointment, our goal is to keep you informed and confident as you begin your smile journey. With offices in Warrenton, Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, Chesterfield, Alton, Carlinville, and Wentzville, our family-led team has helped generations of patients move from consultation to confident smiles.
Your consultation is only the beginning—the foundation for a treatment plan built around your needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Reviewing Your Personalized Treatment Plan
After your consultation, Dr. Rodabough, Dr. Oldroyd, Dr. Ethington, or Dr. Bleyer will review every detail of your diagnostic records. Using digital scans, X-rays, and photos, they design a treatment plan customized to your unique smile.
No two patients are the same, and neither are their orthodontic needs. That’s why your plan may include everything from traditional braces to Invisalign, with each option designed to correct alignment, bite, and aesthetics efficiently. You’ll also discuss estimated treatment length, appointment frequency, and expected results so you know exactly what to anticipate from day one.
Our team believes in transparency. Every step of the planning process is explained in plain language so you understand what we’re recommending, and why.
Understanding Treatment Options
Once your treatment plan is complete, we’ll review your options together. Depending on your goals and lifestyle, you may choose from:
- Metal braces – durable and effective for complex corrections
- Ceramic braces – tooth-colored brackets for a more subtle look
- Invisalign® clear aligners – removable, nearly invisible trays for flexible treatment
- Early treatment options – for younger patients whose jaws and teeth are still developing
Each system has its own benefits, and our orthodontists take the time to explain them so you can make the decision that feels right for you. Whether you’re looking for fast results, a low profile, or maximum comfort, Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists helps you find the perfect fit.
Scheduling Your First Appointment
Once you’ve reviewed your plan and chosen your treatment, the next step is scheduling your first appointment. For many patients, that happens right away, and some even get started the same day as their consultation. If you prefer to schedule later, we’ll work with your availability to find a time that fits your family’s routine.
Our scheduling team keeps flexibility in mind, offering convenient options for busy parents, students, and professionals. With multiple offices across O’Fallon, Chesterfield, Wentzville, Warrenton, Lake St. Louis, Alton, and Carlinville, it’s easy to find an appointment close to home, school, or work.
Starting treatment is a big moment, and our team makes it stress-free from the first phone call to the day you walk in for your appointment.
What to Expect at Your First Treatment Visit
If you’re starting braces, your first visit will focus on placing your brackets and wires in a process that’s comfortable, precise, and completed in about an hour and a half. You’ll leave with care instructions, wax for any minor irritation, and a follow-up appointment already scheduled.
If you’re beginning with Invisalign, you’ll start with a digital scan of your teeth and jaw. A few weeks later, you’ll receive your first set of trays, learn how to insert and remove them, and review your wear schedule. Most patients switch aligners every one to two weeks, with progress checks every few months.
Our assistants and coordinators walk you through everything step by step so you leave feeling informed and excited about your progress.
Talking Through Financial Details
Making Orthodontic Care Affordable
Before your first treatment visit, our financial team will review the investment side of your new smile. We’ll walk you through your payment options, review your insurance benefits, and discuss flexible financing plans that make treatment accessible for every family.
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we believe finances should never stand between you and your dream smile. That’s why we offer interest-free monthly payments, family discounts, and options that fit comfortably into your budget. You’ll know your total cost up front, with no hidden fees or unexpected charges along the way.
Transparency From Day One
Every patient deserves clarity. During this stage, our team explains how payments align with your treatment timeline and what to expect from your insurance provider. We take pride in making orthodontic care straightforward and stress-free.
Our coordinators are always happy to answer questions or make adjustments as life changes. Whether it’s a new insurance plan, a move, or a scheduling shift, our team ensures your plan stays easy to manage.
What Happens Between Visits
Communication & Progress Tracking
Once your treatment begins, we stay connected every step of the way. Our team keeps you informed through text, email reminders, and open communication between appointments. Whether you’re adjusting to braces or getting used to aligners, you’ll always know how your progress is tracking.
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled every 6–10 weeks, giving us the chance to make adjustments and celebrate your progress.
Our commitment to communication extends beyond the office. If you have a question, need to reschedule, or just want reassurance about what’s normal, the Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists team is always just a call or message away.
Your Role in Keeping Treatment on Track
Orthodontic success is a partnership. Between visits, your daily habits make a big difference in how smoothly treatment goes. Brushing and flossing carefully around brackets, avoiding sticky or crunchy foods, and following care instructions all help ensure your smile stays healthy throughout treatment.
If you’re wearing Invisalign aligners, consistency is key. Wearing trays for 20–22 hours per day helps you stay on schedule and achieve results as planned. It’s also important to store them safely and clean them regularly to keep them fresh and clear.
We make home care simple by giving you customized instructions, tips, and support. When you know exactly what to do between visits, maintaining great progress feels effortless.
Your Smile Journey Starts Here
Your first consultation is just the beginning of an exciting transformation. After your visit, we take care of everything, from creating your custom plan to reviewing financial options and getting your first appointment on the calendar.
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we believe great orthodontic care should be simple, transparent, and centered on you. Whether you’re a teen starting braces or an adult exploring Invisalign, we’ll make sure every step forward is clear, comfortable, and rewarding.
Ready to take the next step toward your new smile? Schedule your free consultation today at one of our convenient St. Louis–area locations and see why families have trusted Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists for decades.