What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Dr. Sheinis and the team at Shiney Smiles Orthodontics love nothing more than bringing a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles to our amazing patient family. So what does that look like? How do we start? And what can you bring to your first appointment to make it go as smoothly as possible? Read on to find out! 

Get Ready for a Great Start

Your first orthodontic visit is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you’re coming in for your child, yourself, or a teen in the family, that first appointment sets the tone for the whole experience. We’re here to make it smooth, welcoming, and informative.

While you don’t need to bring a truckload of paperwork, having a few key items in hand can help your visit go faster and give our team everything we need to help you get started. More importantly, we’ll walk you through what to expect, what we’ll do, and how we work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.

The Basics: What To Bring With You

Bringing the right documents helps us understand your health background and start treatment with clarity. Here’s what to keep in mind for your first orthodontic visit.

Completed Patient Forms

To save time, we offer patient forms online so you can complete them ahead of your appointment. These forms give us your basic health history, insurance details, and relevant contact information. Filling them out before you arrive helps you avoid a clipboard session in the waiting room.

Insurance and ID

Bring your dental insurance card if you have one, even if you’re unsure about your coverage for orthodontic treatment. Our team will use it to verify your benefits and explain your options clearly. Also, don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID—we need this for verifying your records and ensuring everything is secure and accurate.

A List of Questions

If you or your child has been thinking about braces or clear aligners, chances are you have questions. Bring a list! Whether it’s about how long treatment takes, the types of braces we offer, or how Invisalign clear aligners compare to other options like 3M Clarity aligners, we’re ready to talk through all of it with you.

What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

What to Expect During Your First Orthodontic Visit

Your first appointment is all about discovery. We want to learn about you, your smile goals, and what type of care will best meet your needs. From the moment you walk into our Huntington office, you’ll be welcomed by a team that loves what they do. Expect a fun, friendly atmosphere that puts patients of all ages at ease.

A Thorough Exam

We’ll perform a full orthodontic evaluation, including digital imaging and X-rays if needed. This allows us to assess bite alignment, tooth development, and jaw positioning. The goal is to get a full picture of where you are today and how we can help you reach your ideal smile.

Personalized Treatment Discussion

Following your exam, we’ll talk through your treatment options. Whether you’re interested in metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners, we’ll tailor a plan to your specific needs and lifestyle. We’ll also walk you through payment options and schedule flexibility—important parts of your orthodontic journey.

Bonus Items That Help—But Aren’t Required

Some extras can make the first visit even smoother, especially if you’re bringing in a child or teen.

Previous Dental Records

If you’ve had recent dental X-rays or evaluations, bringing them can help us skip duplicate imaging and move straight into planning. While not required, these records offer valuable insights.

Orthodontic Referral

If your family dentist referred you, please be sure to bring along any notes or referral documents they provided. It helps us align your care across both teams. Minors will need a parent or guardian present to sign paperwork and discuss treatment options. But even for older teens or adults, having someone along can be helpful—two sets of ears often pick up more in a new environment.

Making It Work for Your Family

We understand that orthodontic treatment is a big decision, especially for families juggling work, school, and everything in between. That’s why we’re committed to providing flexible scheduling, clear financial information, and a supportive team environment. We’re happy to offer evening and weekend appointment options so you never have to choose between your calendar and your smile goals.

Whether you’re visiting from Glen Cove, surrounding Long Island communities, or just down the street, we’re here to make your first orthodontic visit easy, efficient, and maybe even fun.

Why Shiney Smiles Orthodontics?

We don’t just straighten teeth—we build relationships. Dr. Sheinis is known for his expertise, attention to detail, and approachable style. Our practice blends clinical precision with a laid-back environment that keeps patients coming back—and recommending us to friends and family.

Still Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Not sure what your insurance covers? Wondering if clear aligners are right for your teen? Curious how long braces might take? Don’t worry—your first visit is all about getting those questions answered.

What To Bring to Your First Orthodontic Appointment

Let’s Make That First Visit Shine

When you’re ready to begin your smile journey, Shiney Smiles Orthodontics is here to help you every step of the way. From the moment you walk in, we’re focused on your comfort, your questions, and your care.

Schedule your first orthodontic appointment today with a free consultation to get started on a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles—we can’t wait to meet you!