Discussing Treatment Options with the Phoenix Orthodontist

First, the Phoenix orthodontist would discuss with Emily and her parents what the Phoenix orthodontist see when the Phoenix orthodontist look at her dentition both good and bad (peg lateral, missing lower 5, molar relationship, crowding if present, overjet/overbite, etc.). Next, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain in layman’s terms the different orthodontic options we have in improving the problems. The Phoenix orthodontist would pay particular attention to any extraction and restorative needs because these represent increased cost and risk to the Phoenix orthodontic patient. In Emily’s case the Phoenix orthodontist would explain that if a Phoenix orthodontic patient is going to have misshaped or missing teeth that lateral incisors and 2nd premolars are some of the teeth most commonly afflicted. The Phoenix orthodontist would also explain that there is likely to be a genetic component and that others related to Emily probably also have teeth missing. Next, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain my rationale for extraction or non-extraction. If non-extraction were decided, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain that while primary teeth can last a long time, they were not intended to last a lifetime and that Phoenix restorative treatment will eventually be required. In addition, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain that a Phoenix implant couldn’t be placed until Emily’s growth is complete. As far as the peg lateral, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain both why and how we went to restore the tooth in general terms letting the Phoenix restorative dentist provide the exact details.

With the referring Phoenix dentist, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain my rationale for choosing an extraction or non-extraction approach for Emily. If extractions are desired, the Phoenix orthodontist would refer the patient back to the Phoenix dentist for the extractions (if the Phoenix dentist does extractions) or to the Phoenix oral surgeon (if the Phoenix dentist does not do extractions). If a non-extraction approach is chosen, the Phoenix orthodontist would explain to the Phoenix dentist that the lower e will be retained and that future restoration will be the decision of Emily, Emily’s parents, and the restorative Phoenix dentist. In regards to the peg lateral, the Phoenix orthodontist would discuss with the Phoenix dentist the restorability of the tooth and restorative options. Based on the restoration chosen, the peg lateral crown and root position will be determined. Together we will also determine how much space should be left around the peg lateral.